A few weeks back, I had coffee with a talented French-born, Australian-loving, ACNE-working, GPO-visiting (Can anyone guess who I am talking about?) gorgeous jewellery designer, whose pieces have adorned the likes of Anja Rubik to Sussie Bubble, it is none other than the amazing Estelle Dévé! I have been a fan of her intriguing jewels for a while now, I call them raw beauties. It was lovely to finally catch up in person. She is so stunning, and her French-flavoured accent made my interview with her even sweeter! Here Estelle opens up about her stylish and creative world as she chats about her roots, dreams, favourite designers and skinny French women!
You have a double degree in PR and marketing, what promoted you to become a jewellery designer?
I think I always somewhat knew I wanted to be a designer, but wasn’t really sure whether or not I’d be good enough at it or if that was exactly what was meant for me. I had been interested in fashion from a very young age and all my marketing and PR roles were linked to fashion. After years of selling, promoting and doing every possible fashion related job, it finally became clear to me that none of these roles felt right and that I had to be brave and try myself at designing.
You are French! Many say they see a ‘reminiscence’ of Yves Saint Laurent jewellery when they view your collection. How do you feel about that? How does your Parisian roots influence your design or your style aesthetics?
That is a very funny thing because for Australians, I seem to be the “archetype” of the french girl, but to me I couldn’t feel further away from it. I was always the weird kid who wouldn’t fit at school, and never felt really French. That said, I do feel that my french upbringing does influence my style massively. I am always going towards good quality, simple, battered investment pieces which I think is probably very French.
Is it true that French women are all skinny and gorgeous like you? :)
Haha :) Thanks, you’re making me blush… I don’t really think that’s very true. Australian girls are gorgeous! I think that people have this idea of Paris because they watch movies with pretty actresses in them, and look at photos taken during Fashion week, and then imagine that everyone in France looks like that. But we’re just pretty normal.. That said, I think the portions sizes at restaurants are way smaller than here, and people spend their time smoking and drinking coffee. Not very healthy but that won’t get you very fat either..
I know you design with an exclusive customer base in mind, who are some people you would love to see wear your jewellery pieces?
I think that what I would really love would be to see my jewellery worn by creative, active women. Career women. Women like Sofia Coppola or Phoebe Philo. Oh and I have a soft spot for Aurora Sansone, who assists Anna Dello Russo. She’s got the perfect mix of feminine and masculine clothing and I’d love to send her some jewels!
When it comes to clothing, I’ve seen you wear the most amazing denim pieces, I know you are an ACNE fan, which other designers do you love?
I think I go to different designers for different items. But for everyday wear, yes Acne is always a favourite but also Phillip Lim. He just works with the most amazing fabrics! For party dresses I love Christopher Kane and Proenza Schouler. If I had the budget I’d go for one of their dresses every season! Oh and last and not least, I LOVE Dries Van Noten. He does the most amazing shoes and I am somewhat addicted to them..
And finally, what are your dreams for Estelle Deve jewellery in the next few years?
I think nothing would make me happier than expanding my brands more overseas. I’d also love to be able to have my own little office and start employ people to work with me. And dreams-wise, working on new collaborations with exciting designers like Josh Goot, Ellery or Dion Lee would be amazing!
Merci beaucoup Estelle for sharing your insights! I can’t wait to sport some of your pieces soon! To shop Estelle’s pieces, visit her online store here.
What are you up to this weekend everyone? I’m working as a vet all weekend, going to a wedding on Saturday night and a gorgeous soiree on Sunday (planning outfits in my head!). Look forward to taking photos and sharing them with you next week! Have a beautiful and relaxing weekend! Thank you for your support and for reading my blog. I love your comments and contributions.
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