Mode Merr is a Rochester, New Hampshire based retro clothing company. They have been providing the rockabilly and pin up set with perfect pencil skirts and dresses for many years. Notable pin up model Bernie Dexter and go-go darlings The World Famous Pontani Sisters have sported darling looks designed by this Granite State outfitter. The company is run by the talented Angela Zampell, who has taken the time to answer a few questions about her fabulous clothing line, inspirations, and upcoming events.

Who are you, and what do you do?

I am Angela Zampell, head designer and co-owner of Mode Merr. Mode Merr is a woman's clothing line produced in New England (Maine, NH & Mass). We primarily cater to gals who embrace the retro, pin-up lifestyle but we are finding that many of our items have cross-over appeal. We offer sizes XXS-XXXL and are very curve friendly. We sell our collection to wholesale and retail clients via our website www.modemerr.com. I design and develop our collection. I cut all of our items to ship to our stitchers, and oversee the finishing touches before each order is shipped. My boyfriend Steve handles the website design, branding, accounting and he manages our wholesale accounts. In my opinion, I get to do all of the fun stuff!

What inspired you to start Mode Merr?

Several factors inspired me to start Mode Merr (20 years ago in 1989!). My mother and grandmother taught me to sew and nurtured my creative expression. My love of 50's & 60's doll clothes and vintage clothing have influenced the designs I offer today. I really appreciate the unexpected details and finishes on garments from bygone eras.

Where do you find inspiration for your clothing line?

I find inspiration for new designs in my clients. I love getting customer photos for our online gallery and meeting them in person at various events like Viva Las Vegas and our New York fashion & burlesque events. I am inspired by the confidence of many of our clients in every size and shape. Confidence is a must have that is always in style.

Do you have a favorite design or article of clothing?

I really like little jackets and boleros because they look so cute and petite. We are best known for our Perfect Skirts in both raised and natural waist styles. The prefect skirt has a pencil style that I have spent countless hours on for a truly flattering fit regardless of height or size.

What is in store for the future of Mode Merr?

We have so many ideas for the future including a maternity line called Mode Merrternity, a plus size line and a goth inspired line, names to be determined. We will actually be holding contests to help us with the names and to develop these collections. We really enjoy having guests over to our studio in Rochester, (NH) and plan to have more open houses throughout the year.

For more information on the designs of Angela Zampell, visit the Mode Merr website.