Spotlight on British brands: Sarvin

While big, fast fashion brands still dominate most high streets, emerging sustainable designers and brands are bringing a new wave of hope to the industry (and the planet). In this week’s edition of Spotlight on British brands, we catch up with Sarvin, designer and owner of her own eponymous fashion line. Sarvin tells us about her global influences, finding that crucial work-life balance, and how she’s championing sustainable design one elegant dress at a time.

What first inspired you to enter the world of fashion design?

A desire to wear an exclusive design that wasn’t available on the high street and worn by many people. I always wanted to dress stylishly but not over the top, so I can step into any event confidently knowing not many people have the same outfit as mine.

Tell us about a day in the life of Sarvin.

I always try to start my day with some sort of exercise – it can be the gym, body balance or swimming. Following my morning exercise, I work from home for a few hours and catch up with business emails and enquiries. By midday, I start my second job. This helps with my living cost, giving me the flexibility to work more hours on Sarvin and grow the business organically. I try to squeeze a yoga or pilates session in by 6pm, to help me wind down and get ready for another challenging day.

I have a big passion for cooking and nutrition too, so I try to cook a hearty evening meal for my husband and I. Usually, after dinner, my partner works on the accounting and financial part of the business, while I focus on creativity and the marketing side of Sarvin.

I tend to not work after 9:30pm and I read a book before I go to bed, so I can have a better night’s sleep and start the day fresh and fully determined again.

Where do you draw fresh inspiration from when designing new collections?

I get inspiration from everything and everyone. I believe this world is made up of so many beautiful people and landscapes, you just need to open your mind and heart to see it. That’s where my designs come from.

Sometimes I get inspiration from seeing a fabric at a textile event or showroom. I start sketching in my head before bringing it onto paper, thinking about how well the fabric would go with a particular design.

You’ve lived, travelled and studied in various countries – how do you think travel has influenced your designs?

I’ve been very fortunate to live in several countries with my family before settling in the UK and starting my own business. I’ve always loved meeting new people from different countries and I believe every new language you learn helps to understand new and different cultures.

At the same time, all this has influenced my working life and the decisions I’ve made in business. I’ve learnt in the past few years that creating a sustainable fashion brand is a lot more joyful (but also more challenging) than producing for a fast fashion brand. I design for women who love to dress elegantly, effortlessly and minimally, giving them the opportunity to let our garments do the talking for them.

What’s next for Sarvin?

Focusing on the quality of our products and growing our business organically, while making sure all our garments are created in a sustainable fashion environment. We’re currently working on a very exciting project and soon we’ll be launching our first ever print collection. Keep an eye on our website for exclusive print designs and flattering garments for different body types and occasions.

Fancy following in Sarvin’s footsteps? If you’re feeling creative and have your head buried in your design sketchbook, don’t forget about the all-important finishing touches. From wash care and size labels to swing tickets, we’ve got everything you need to elevate your latest collection.

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