Meet Chloe Mendel, wife of The Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan: her dad is respected fashion designer Gilles Mendel, and she runs her own brand, Maison Atia, as well as the quirky cafe Madame Zuzu
Born to French and Taiwanese parents, the fashion powerhouse is expecting her third child with the musician, whom she married in 2023 wearing a wedding gown designed by her dad
Billy Corgan is getting ready to welcome another little rocker. The Smashing Pumpkins frontman, 57, and his wife, Chloe Mendel, 31, are expecting their third child. “We are overjoyed to announce that our family is growing!” Mendel told People in August, adding, “It’s an exciting time for us, although unexpected!”
The baby news comes just two years after Corgan’s surprise proposal at Mendel’s 30th birthday in Highland Park, Illinois. “It was a stunning and unforgettable September evening in 2022,” Chloe told Vogue, recalling what began as a simple garden party that turned into so much more.
Corgan gave Mendel three stunning ring designs, and she assumed it was just a birthday gift – until she saw the emotion in his eyes. “Is it a yes?” he asked, catching her off guard. “Is this a proposal?” she replied. His answer? “Yes!” After 11 years and two children together, Corgan finally made it official.
Curious about Chloe Mendel? Keep reading for the lowdown on the woman who stole Corgan’s heart.
Her family is deeply rooted in the fashion world
Mendel grew up surrounded by fashion in New York thanks to her French father and Taiwanese mother, according to Fashion Takes Action. As the daughter of Gilles Mendel, the famed French designer and CEO of J. Mendel, fashion was in her DNA. She trained under her father and co-founded the couture brand House of Gilles with him in 2023, per the brand’s website.
She’s the co-founder of Maison Atia
Mendel also co-founded Maison Atia, a luxury outerwear brand that combines modern heritage with playful, timeless style. According to the brand’s website, it prioritises eco-friendly materials, using bio-based faux fur, recycled fabrics and upcycled textiles to craft its signature pieces.