Nashmin 
Can you introduce your brand and yourself in a few sentences?
My name is Eva Rorandelliand I am an Italian artist and fashion designer. I founded Evaro Italiain 2016 in Florence. I’m very inspired by nature and Italian culture, and my designs embody the high quality tradition and style of Italian fashion. Evaro Italia provides one of a kind statement pieces designed to order for special events and red carpets, as well as ready-to-wear garments. Our materials and fabrics are imported from Florence, Italy.
What sparked your interest in fashion design?
I grew up in Florence—a city filled with art and culture. My father (and my grandfather before him) owned a leather business in the center of the city, so I was exposed to fashion and making garments from a very young age. I was always drawing when I was young and I studied painting in college. I also worked as a model in Europe and then later in New York City, which allowed me to observe the fashion industry from a unique perspective. Over time my creative pursuits have brought me to fashion design; it began as an exciting artistic adventure, and is now very much the expression of who I am.
Can you describe your creative process?
I’m very intuitive. All it takes for me to get inspired is a color, an idea, or a dream, and then I am obsessed with drawing for some time after that. When I stop sketching a collection it becomes all about constructing the garments. At the core of my practice I am a painter, so colors and textures are what really inspire me.
What is your favourite part of being a designer? What drives you to design?
I love the different areas of fashion design making, and seeing the vision come to life. I love drawing, garment construction, and putting together shows and photoshoots. I enjoy the business side as well, and collaborating with a great team of talented people to create each collection.
How do you find working as a designer where your brand is based? Has the culture/surroundings affected your design aesthetic? Do you feel connected to your home?
Italian culture and style is at the core of the Evaro Italia brand. I am very connected to nature and the Italian countryside where I grew up, and my designs reflect that very much. These days I split my time between Italy and the US. We’re an international brand, and the contrast between American and European cultures is always a source of inspiration.
In anticipation of your runway show at Vancouver Fashion Week, what are you most looking forward to?
Everything! I am excited to showcase my new collection in the beautiful city of Vancouver. I visited years ago and I loved it. I also look forward to working alongside so many other talented international designers. It’s always a pleasure to share the creative energy and see so many different visions come alive together.
What is the inspiration behind your S/S20 collection to be showcased at Vancouver Fashion Week?
The new Evaro Italia collection is titled “Tropical Dreams”—inspired by the splendor of summer in the Italian countryside, clashing with the new infrastructures and architectures of contemporary reality. The dichotomy of nature and technology is always a constant in my work. It’s a lighthearted new resort collection. The show will highlight fun and exuberant colors and silhouettes.
What are you hoping are the reactions from audiences seeing your designs (perhaps for their first time)?
I am hoping the audience will appreciate the new collection and aesthetic. I hope that it will excite them, mesmerize them, and transport them into the vibrant and elegant world of Evaro Italia.
Thank you for speaking with us, Eva. We look forward to seeing your brand on the VFW runway!
Photos contributed.