BOLD PIECES THAT SPEAK TO YOUR INDIVIDUAL STYLE
Story by Lauren Cooper
Photos by Sarjoun Faour
With striking signature styles and a fierce design philosophy, jewellery line Gardé Del Avante lets you make a statement without saying a word. Designer Naanafya creates three collections under the label to suit a wide variety of tastes; Plaid caught up with the Toronto-based “advocate for individuality” to find out more!
Why did you choose the name Gardé Del Avante? What does it mean to you?
The name Gardé Del Avante means avant-garde. Every encounter with anyone who has ever seen our collection for the very first time would automatically say that my choice of aesthetic is very avant-garde, so the name just worked. The name is an extension of what we aim to achieve. Through our name, people will get a sense of our abstract, left-wing, dare to be different ensemble. Our pieces aren’t just fashion statements, they are pieces that speak for those who know they don’t have to speak for themselves, without guilt or regret.
When was Gardé Del Avante born?
I created Gardé Del Avante in the summer of June 2010. I started designing jewellery when I was working as a freelance wardrobe stylist and I was unable to find accessories to pull for editorial spreads, fashion shows and video shoots; therefore I began creating them myself. I am a self-taught designer, and as a result Gardé Del Avante was officially launched in the Fall of September 2010. To be honest, I got started being quite bored of the accessible pieces in select stores. These pieces weren’t daring enough, so I decided to create pieces without boundaries. If you looked at one of my pieces and ruffled your face, I knew I did my job. That was the goal, and that will continue to be my aim. Our mission statement is to empower those who strive to be individuals without inhibition by creating pieces that diverge from common culture or what is traditionally considered the “norm”.
How did you know you wanted to be a designer? Was this a life long dream?
When I discovered the impact my jewellery could possibly have on people’s lives. Jewellery to me has always been the ultimate expression of style. There is a personal element to jewellery – a connection that is not as transparent in other design aesthetics such as clothing or shoes. Jewellery speaks to people without words, touches people without sensations. That allure was my hook, my gravitation into this world of custom-design jewellery.
Tell us a little bit about your collection.
Well, to begin, there are actually three different collections with two sub-divisions that currently fall under Gardé Del Avante [line].
Our Haute Couture Collection consists of statement necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets that are considered our more luxurious, high-end and limited-edition designs [and] are primarily used for editorial spreads and red carpet events. These pieces range in price from $300 to $1000.
Our Signature Collection is what our company is most known for – our signature style. These pieces are easily transitioned from everyday wear to evening wear. This collection still maintains a runway appeal with street and everyday credibility. The pieces in this collection include, but are not limited to, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, pant chains, ankle bracelets, and chain glasses holders. The jewellery ranges in price from $100 to $300.
Our GDA Collection, which is made up of GDA Classic and GDA Trend, continues to strive towards excellence and affordability. These pieces are very artistic, stylish and easy to wear. This collection is approachable and designed for the everyday person. These pieces can accessorize every outfit in your closet. The collection includes rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets that have semi-precious stones, metallic elements and crystal detailing incorporated into every piece of jewellery, and retail between $30 and $280. More specifically, GDA Classic Collection is a contemporary line for the modern day woman that is all the things that make us women – it’s flirty, playful, dainty, and feminine! GDA Trend Collection is our more street appeal line for the more youthful woman that allows her to play with the other side of being a fierce woman – daring and edgy!
How would you define your personal style?
Unpredictable, bold, daring and uncompromised.
What is your favourite piece from the collection?
That’s a tough one as they are all my babies and are an extension of me, but if I had to choose it would be Monroe Necklace from my Indigène Haute Couture Collection, Feather Bone Earrings and Sway Ring from my Sauvage Signature Collection, and Monster Earrings as well as the Monster Ring from my GDA Trend Collection.
What makes a good accessory?
Definitely a piece that is very transitional – [that] can easily move from day wear to evening wear. A good example would be a Gardé Del Avante piece.
What celebrity would you like to see grace the media wearing something from your collection and why?
Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Rihanna and Anna Dello Russo .. .in my opinion all these women exude strength and confidence … qualities my pieces definitely convey.
If you had to choose what are your three wardrobe staples?
Definitely a pair of Gardé Del Avante earrings, a Gardé Del Avante necklace and finally a Gardé Del Avante bracelet.
Who are your fashion inspirations?
Alexander McQueen and Viktor and Rolf. I love the way they go against the grain and challenge the notion of what is traditional. I love the way they push boundaries … it’s very inspiring to see as an up-and-coming designer.
What are the fashion philosophies you live by?
“Dare to be different…. Dare to be you.” (Gardé Del Avante)
What was your biggest fashion mistake?
Not being true to myself [and] my individual sense of style.
What items would we find in your purse?
Definitely my Pink Nouveau or Lady Danger lipstick by M.A.C, the 2011 Gardé Del Avante Lookbook and my business cards – that’s a MUST!!!
Do you hope to eventually sell Gardé Del Avante in stores?
Absolutely! We intend to go international … but for now you can [find us and shop] online. You can also find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
