The Stories inside Leonie Mahler’s Closet

WORDS BY Sophia Al-khayat
22 Jan 2025
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Fashion is more than just fabric—it's a tapestry of memories, moments, and milestones. For Leonie, Senior Product Manager at Save Your Wardrobe, her wardrobe tells a deeply personal story, woven with secondhand treasures, repaired keepsakes, and family heirlooms. From a 90s Jean-Paul Gaultier top discovered in her parents' attic to a childhood silk handbag lovingly restored, every piece carries its own narrative, shaped by her travels, relationships, and a commitment to sustainability.

In a world increasingly shifting towards mindful consumption, Leonie’s closet offers a glimpse into the beauty of secondhand gems and the craftsmanship of well-preserved garments. A globetrotter who has visited nearly 60 countries, Leonie’s love for travel shines through in her collection. Her wardrobe features treasures like a jacket found at a London Fields market pop-up and a silk handbag she discovered as a child in China.

Leonie’s vibrant personality is reflected in her bold style choices. A fan of mixing patterns and colours. Many of her keepsakes have been passed down or inspired by her mom, whom she calls a “fashion icon.” Leonie dabbles in pottery, Muay Thai, and even axe throwing. Her adventurous spirit comes alive in pieces like her Ganni boots, which remind her of stomping through London, feeling free and youthful.

What is the most special item in your wardrobe?

I have many things in my wardrobe that are special to me. If something doesn’t serve me anymore, I donate it. My wardrobe is full of things I brought back from travelling or thrifted items. Or that I stole from my mom. So genuinely, everything is special to me.

Tell us about an item that has been passed onto you or shared between friends and family.

The Jean-Paul GAULTIER top from the 90’s that my mom got altered. I found it in my parents' attic and decided that it was mine now. Not sure that it was passed down per definition. But it is with me now.

What is the oldest item in your wardrobe?

Probably that Fendi scarf my mom gave me from the 90’s. I wear it almost every day in the winter.

Leonie Mahlers Wardrobe Keepsakes

Something thrifted?

A jacket, got it at a random second hand market pop up at London fields. It’s super heavy but I absolutely love it.

What about something that has undergone care and repair services?

I got this little chinese silk handbag when I was a child in China. I’ve treasured it since then but since it has gotten quite old, the handles broke in the meantime. I found a man in Germany who was able to fix it.

Do you own any handmade pieces?

My mother and I designed this mother pearl necklace with a coral pendant 20 years ago. ( I just realised that my mom is very much credited here, maybe you should do this interview with her as well, she is a fashion icon)

Leonie Mahler - Wardrobe Keepsakes

What is something that holds onto your favourite memories?

I love my Ganni boots that I got 1 ½ years ago. It just reminds me of stomping around London, being free and young and enjoying life.

At Save Your Wardrobe, we're true believers of preserving the craftsmanship of garments and the stories they hold. Our technology supports fashion lovers in extending the life of their garments—whether through seamless repair and care services, or thoughtful aftersales solutions. Together, let’s honor the artistry of clothing and celebrate a world where every piece has a story worth telling.