In February 2013, a bold new brand hit the scene: L’Amour by Nanette Lepore. Known for her bright and chic designs, Lepore partnered with JCPenney to launch an affordable teen fashion line with a vibrant, neon flair.
Unfortunately, the brand faced challenges pursuing aggressive growth, leading to its decline. By 2020, Lepore no longer owned her namesake label, and after presenting her final New York Fashion Week collection for Spring 2020, she closed her design studio.
Vanessa Hudgens (far left) and Shay Mitchell (far right) bring bold color to the red carpet alongside Nanette and Violet Lepore (center), all showcasing playful neon outfits and standout shoes at the L’Amour by Nanette Lepore for JCPenney launch party in NYC on January 24, 2013 (Credit: Kyle Blair / WENN)
The brand was launched at a quirky party (think slinky-lined ceilings) attended by Hollywood’s hip young stars, including Emma Roberts, Vanessa Hudgens, Emma Kenney, and Shay Mitchell.
Violet Lepore and Nanette Lepore showcasing their elegance alongside actress Emma Kenney, all adorned in L’Amour by Nanette Lepore’s dazzling designs
L’Amour was said to have been inspired by Lepore’s daughter Violet, who loves shopping for affordable clothes at Target and JCPenney.
The designs officially launched online in February 2013, offering a vibrant collection of outfits—think neon dresses, bold tops, quirky pants, and sparkly shorts. The line was a dream for young fashion lovers craving statement pieces at an affordable price. Although created with teens in mind, the playful, trend-forward styles easily appealed to fashion-forward 20-somethings as well.
A playful moment captured as Nanette and Violet Lepore step out in eye-catching neon shoes, embodying the spirited essence of the L’Amour collection
While L’Amour was geared toward teens and launched in collaboration with JCPenney, Nanette Lepore remained a fierce advocate for quality craftsmanship and local production.
She once said, “I’m so thrilled to manufacture in LA and to support the finely skilled craftsmen and women. Making it in America ensures that the fashion industry will continue to thrive in this country for years to come.” This commitment to detail and design helped her earn a loyal celebrity following—both for her main line and her youthful spin-offs.
Stepping Out in Style: Celebrities Who Love Nanette Lepore
Nanette Lepore’s vibrant and feminine designs have captivated many celebrities, leading to numerous standout fashion moments. Here are some notable instances:
Emma Roberts Dons Nanette Lepore Suit at Vogue Eyewear Launch
- Event: Vogue Eyewear & CFDA Launch
- Outfit: Emma Roberts showcased a sophisticated gray-and-black printed suit with black-trimmed lapels from Nanette Lepore’s collection.
- Footwear: She completed her ensemble with classic Christian Louboutin ‘Pigalle’ pumps.
- More Details: Emma Roberts’ chic Nanette Lepore suit at Vogue Eyewear event
Nicki Minaj in Nanette Lepore at MAC Viva Glam Party
- Event: MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam Party
- Outfit: Nicki Minaj wore a striped pink and blue dress and blazer set from Nanette Lepore’s Spring 2012 collection.
- Footwear: She paired her vibrant outfit with two-tone Giuseppe Zanotti sandals.
- More Details: Nicki Minaj’s bold Nanette Lepore ensemble at MAC Viva Glam
Nastia Liukin’s Green Accents with Nanette Lepore Sandals
- Event: Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week
- Outfit: Nastia Liukin paired a black blazer with python-printed pants and green snake-print leather ‘Addicted to You’ wedge sandals by Nanette Lepore.
- Accessories: She accessorized with a matching green textured clutch.
- More Details: Nastia Liukin’s Nanette Lepore sandals at New York Fashion Week
Alicia Quarles Shines in Nanette Lepore at E! Upfront 2013
- Event: E! Upfront Presentation 2013
- Outfit: Alicia Quarles captivated attendees in a flirty pink dress by Nanette Lepore, featuring sheer-stripe knit details and a swingy A-line skirt.
- More Details: Alicia Quarles’ standout Nanette Lepore dress at E! Upfront 2013
Nanette Lepore’s Comeback: Introducing Her Solo Label, Maria Cecilia
In 2023, Lepore re-entered the fashion scene with a new direct-to-consumer label, Maria Cecilia, launched six months before November 2023. This marked a return to her roots, a one-person endeavor without full-time staff, reminiscent of her early days.
Violet Savage and Nanette Lepore coordinated in bold pink ensembles and sleek black footwear at the KitchenAid Color of the Year Collection presentation during New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2023 at IRON23 on February 9, 2023 (Credit: TheNews2 / Cover Images)
The fall collection featured elegant pieces like satin dresses and lace tops, priced between $175 and $750, sold through pop-ups like one at Sabah House in New York.