Nashmin The Fairy Godmother of Denver, we talk with Eve Jenkins ahead of her Vancouver Fashion Week showcase
MM: Can you introduce your brand and yourself in a few sentences?
I’m Eve Jenkins I created the brand Parasite Eve Designs in 2011. I would describe my brand as fantasy based couture, I use a mixture of old and modern styles to create pieces that look like they came from a storybook. I love each of my gowns to tell a story on their own. In 2017 Andrew Flatland joined as a co-designer he helps design the headpieces and accessories to match the gowns.
MM: Can you describe your creative process?
I am mostly inspired by nature but sometimes I get it from fabrics or other forms of art.
MM: Where do you find inspiration in your day-to-day life?
I try to find inspiration everywhere. I love seeing the beauty in nature. I live in a mountain range so the scenery is beautiful. I also do a bit a gothic wear so I find beauty in some of the darker aspects of life.
MM: What kind of questions do you ask yourself when you begin creating a collection?
I’m always trying to learn new things and get better so I question what I can do to outdo the previous collections and gowns.
MM: How has your work evolved since you began your own label?
Very much so, when I started I mainly did everyday wear but I fell in love with doing the more detailed work and instead of clothing creating art pieces.
MM: How do you find working as a designer in the US? Has the culture/surroundings affected your design aesthetic? Do you feel connected to your home?
In Denver the Fashion Market is pretty rough it’s hard getting paid for work so I try to travel to other states as much as possible. Some of the US culture may affect my designs but I have a love for European designers so it doesn’t feel very connected to home.
MM: What sparked your interest in fashion design?
I did cosplay costume design for several years I tried fashion on a whim and ended loving it
MM: How did you learn the business of fashion?
I’m self-taught I honestly just did it for fun I never dreamed it would have gone as far as it has.
MM: What is your favourite part of being a designer? What drives you to design?
I love making people feel beautiful, it drives me to design. Women I dress are always so happy to wear my designs and it feels amazing. Several models have nicknamed me The Fairy Godmother of Denver.
MM: What is the inspiration behind your S/S19 collection to be showcased at Vancouver Fashion Week?
This collection is called Labyrinth, it is based on fairytale creatures, goddesses, and myths.
Thank you, Eve for sharing your story with us! We’re looking forward to seeing your collection on the VFW runway this Fall!