Melbourne-based Visual Arts graduate Anna Cowen brought jewellery label Edenborough Evans to life in 2009. Made to the highest industry standards using the finest sterling silver, Edenborough Evans’ debut collection was a sell-out success and has since graced the pages of fashion bibles such as Marie Claire, Madison, Cosmopolitan and Grazia.
Following a successful exhibition in Paris last month at the prestigious ‘Premier Class’ trade show, Edenborough Evans is back with a new summer range for 2012! We caught up with the lady herself to find out more!
Firstly, tell us a little about yourself and how you got into the industry?
Growing up I never thought about jewellery designing as a career. I always loved hands on things and design creativity. I studied visual arts at Monash University and major in metals and jewellery. I fell in love with the designing and making processes the minute I stepped in the studio. I was fortunate enough to finish my degree in Prato, Italy, where I worked with a jeweller. It was such an amazing experience and it was here that the first Edenbourgh Evans collection was born.
What does your typical work day consist of?
I like to start the day with some exercise, usually a walk or a jog along the beach with my dog. The mornings involve checking and responding to emails and online orders. The best thing about my job is that each day is different. Days are never regiment; there’s always a mixture of things to get done. My sister and business partner Kate and I are often running between the office to appointments, designing, directing photo shoots etc.
What is the best thing about your job?
The best thing about my job is having the flexibility and freedom to be creative. I started Edenborough Evans with my sister Kate and am so lucky to have a business partner with the same goals, vision and attitude. Although work can be exhausting we always have great fun working together each day.
What has been the biggest challenge so far in your career?
The biggest challenge so far would be the economic climate! It has been such a hard time for retailers and it has been so sad to see so many beautiful stores having to shut down.
What advice would you give to other women in the fashion industry who are just beginning their careers?
My advice would be to do it! Don’t be afraid to take risks in design. Make sure you are creating pieces that you love and are believe are of excellent standard and quality. Your creations represent you and you need to be comfortable putting them out to the public.
How would you describe the “Edenborough Evans” girl?
The Edenborough Evans girl varies from late teens through to mature age. She is someone who appreciates considered design. She loves to create her own look with quality jewellery. There is also the “Edenborough Evans” man, He is also aged from late teens through to mature age. He is someone who can admire design and loves to wear classic styles with a modern twist.
Where do your draw inspiration from for your designs?
I am not just inspired by one thing; Inspiration is drawn from art, places, structures, objects and experiences. Inspiration for the designs began from my time spent in Prato, Italy. Our signature collection is inspired is from old fashioned wax stamp seals. I find the movement of melting wax and the patterns the drips create really fascinating. The wax concept and material is explored and developed in both the classic and seasonal collections.
Tell us about the new summer collection..
The summer collection is exhibits bold statement pieces. Abstract forms created from drips of wax shape this range that is designed to compliment and complete an outfit.
What is next for you in 2012?
We are returning to Paris in January to exhibit in Premiere Classe we will launch our European Autumn/Winter 2012/13 collection. We have numerous other projects in the pipelines for 2012 and are planning collaborations with some amazing designers.
Anna, Thank you for taking the time to chat to us, we look forward to seeing many more great things from Edenborough Evans!
Head to the website to see more!
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