Indeed, for the past nine years the elder Torres has infused a playful, childlike spirit into her fashions, choosing sumptuous fabrics and selecting one-of-a-kind appliqués to create “eclectic, unique clothing for women of all ages.” Torres-Aulenta says that Dick & Jayne styles are “for a woman who wants to look hip, but not like she’s wearing her daughter’s clothes. Our customers take the pieces and wear them in their own way.” Whether designing boiled wool suits for fall or casual spring dresses, Torres-Aulenta says that her mother is “very good at taking a trend and tweaking it.”

Torres developed a passion for fashion as a young girl. She began making clothes for friends, and she was able to draft intricate patterns without any formal training. As a teenager, she even garnered retail orders for a handbag that she created. Years later, she moved her family to Los Angeles from Hawaii to launch various apparel ventures, quick to utilize the city’s offerings. Torres-Aulenta says, “Downtown, there are so many resources. Trim manufacturers, fabric reps and sales reps are all within walking distance.” Torres-Aulenta is particularly glad to have Fashion Business Incorporated so close by. “It is an excellent resource. The seminars are very helpful, and we participated in the spring fashion show, which gave us great exposure.”

Of her involvement in the apparel industry, Torres-Aulenta notes, “I was always around it. After school, I would stay with my mom in her office and watch her design.” So, after a stint teaching abroad, it wasn’t a complete surprise when Torres-Aulenta told her mother that she wanted to work with her at Dick & Jayne.

She continues, “We are a small company, so we each wear many hats. We do everything—answer phones, ship packages, merchandise the line.” Torres-Aulenta is also happy to collaborate with her mother to generate design ideas. “I do give my input. My mom trusts my opinion.”

The mother-daughter duo has built a loyal following among specialty boutiques for quality designs and the attention they give to their clients. Torres-Aulenta says, “Our stores are excited to see the line at market, they want to see the new details we’ve added. They also say we are a friendly company, and we pride ourselves on that.” She adds, “We are a good team, and we have insight into what women want.”

First Published 2/1/07