IN CONVERSATION WITH MIA REGAN

words by MARIA MOTA

Meet talented and multifaceted Mia Regan, internet-known as Mimi Moocher, who has successfully carved a niche for herself in the fashion and creative worlds. 

Through her lens, into her social media feed, Mia offers a glimpse into her colourful life and artistic spirit. With an eye for detail and aesthetics, her Instagram feed serves as a visual feast, combining elements of fashion, art, travel, nature, loved ones, and personal experiences.

Regan’s style can be best described as eclectic, eye-catching, and effortlessly cool. Guided by impulse, she fearlessly mixes and matches various fashion elements. From vibrant hues to muted tones, transitioning between different color palettes, seamlessly embracing both high-fashion pieces and streetwear, Mia’s style is unparalleled.

Reflecting on her time in the industry so far, Mia shares some memories and highlights, including a design collaboration with the renowned Victoria Beckham, the exhilarating experience of walking her first show for JW Anderson, and creative directing the 66 North shop window on Regent’s Street. With evident passion, she reveals her desire to continue exploring creative directing opportunities.

You were scouted a couple years ago and that is how your modeling career started. How old were you? Tell us about that story

I was about 14 when I went to the Birmingham Clothes Show with my mum and got scouted there. Although I signed with Storm Model Management straight away, I didn’t start modelling immediately because my priorities at that time were my education, and I was also playing in the national performance league netball. My creative career truly took off during the COVID-19 pandemic while I was still studying my A-levels. I had time on my hands to nurture my interest in art and that projected onto my social media.

You have been in the industry already for quite some time. Can you share a core memory or a highlight moment of your career so far?

I have a few… Firstly, my design collaboration with Victoria Beckham gave me a lot of insight into the journey from designing the collection, to visiting fabric factories, to the creative direction of the shoot. Secondly, I had the incredible opportunity to set up the 66 North shop window display on Regent Street, featuring the photos from the shoot that I creatively directed. And, of course, walking my first-ever show for JW Anderson; never knew I could feel so many nerves!!

Going back to Spring 2023 runway. How was it to walk your first show with JW Anderson in your home country?

It was an entirely new experience, yet exciting. I love JW Anderson as a brand, so it felt like a natural progression in my career. The opportunity allowed me to gain a newfound respect from a model’s perspective, and to top it off and make it even more special, the show took place in my familiar home country.

Let’s talk about your Cannes look this year, which was stunning! How was the preparation like and how was that evening to you?

Fashion truly thrives off adrenaline, especially when you find yourself at 10pm the night before the event, with a 3am pick-up time and no plans for the outfit, makeup, or hair… prep was going well! Luckily, the Avellano silver latex dress was the first and perfect option, and the matching latex knee-high heels sealed the deal for me. To elevate the red carpet look, I wore beautiful jewels from Copard. 

As a big filmy, watching ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ really made the night for me!

You recently did a shop window display for 66 North x Selfridges on Regent’s Street, taking the role of creative director. How was the experience like? Is it something you want to keep exploring in the future?

I am definitely eager to continue in the role of creative directing, this marks my third time taking on a large-scale project. That being said, I always take a hands-on approach with all my social media collaborations. Being a long-standing admirer of 66 North and the ethics of their business, I saw the opportunity they presented in January ’23 as a perfect chance to blend my love for the outdoors with my passion for art.

Over the months, I worked on mood boards, directed shoots, created collages, spent hours playing with compositions, regularly met with the team, and delved into learning more about Icelandic culture, and finally installing the window display, which took until 2am. Witnessing the entire process come to life was a personal proud moment of my career. It means a lot to me when I have a genuine relationship with the teams i work with, and this experience held a special significance for me.

You have your film account and such a fun and creative social media. I would say you have an eye for detail and image, would photography ever be something other than a hobby? 

I’ve always loved photography, and I’ve always taken photos of the people and places I love around me. I use the account to capture my take on experiences, people and the world. I would love to expand the foundations of the account into larger-scale projects.

How would you describe your style and how do you get inspired for looks? 

I would describe my style as impulsive, drawing inspiration from everywhere. Whether it’s archived images, people on the street, festivals, films, music, culture, small designers, or the beautiful levels of craftsmanship showcased in amazing fashion shows I’m fortunate enough to attend. I can say my fashion choices are a vibrant blend of diverse influences.

What’s your go to outfit?

Baggy fitted denim, funky chunky belt, Birkenstocks and cropped leather jacket.

Favourite place in the world?

Anywhere where with live music or anywhere by the sea. 

Apart from your career and the fashion industry, what are some of your favorite things to do, that bring you most joy?

Hiking, camping, live music and anything to do with dogs. 

And finally, what is next for you? Any exciting things coming up?

The fashion industry is always exciting and constantly evolving, but what I’m truly looking forward is my trip to Nepal with my dad, where we will embark on the Ama Dablam base camp and high camp trek! I’ve previously supported Water Aid, and I’m excited to be partnering with them again, along with the Tendi Sherpa Foundation.