Welcome to ‘Behind the Brand’, a captivating blog series where we unveil the stories and faces behind the diverse brands nestled in our new, permanent location “the edit”, presented by Style Canada, in the picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Join us as we journey through the heart and soul of each brand, exploring the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs that shape their unique identities. From local artisans to international labels, get ready to discover the vibrant tapestry of creativity, craftsmanship, and passion that defines our curated collection of brands. Stay tuned as we take you behind the scenes and introduce you to the captivating narratives behind each brand, one story at a time.
Meet Marjan, the face behind Narvan
Could you tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m Marjan Kargar, the founder and the creative force behind Narvan. My journey began in Iran, where the influential women in my life nurtured my passion for creativity and innovation—a passion that would ultimately shape my future endeavors. With a rich background in arts and graphic design bolstered by academic rigor and professional experience, I’ve developed a versatile approach that has allowed my work to be showcased globally. My designs and exhibitions have attracted an international audience, earning me a loyal following who are drawn to my unique perspective on art and fashion.
To me, the power of an outfit goes beyond mere threads and fabric—it’s about crafting memories and igniting connections. I live for those moments when someone’s day is made brighter by what they wear, when a simple compliment on a unique piece sparks a conversation, or when the choice of attire becomes the day’s highlight. My passion isn’t rooted in the commerce of fashion but in the joy it brings to people’s lives.
Like any true artist, my aim is to contribute beauty to the world—one garment at a time. I believe in the power of fashion to not only enhance our surroundings but also to uplift our spirits. My designs are an ode to those who cherish beauty, originality, and artistry; they are for the individualists, the appreciators of design, and those who seek the unique and timeless.
Share the story behind your brand.
Narvan is the embodiment of the belief that what we wear can transform our experiences. Think back to a time when your outfit drew eyes, started talks, and made you feel like the main character in your own story—that’s the essence of what Narvan creates. We design for those moments that stay with you, the ones where your outfit becomes an unforgettable part of your personal narrative. Narvan is about those days remembered not by the date but by the exquisite details of the garments that adorned you.
What inspires you?
photo from: Narvan
Inspiration for Narvan’s designs is as boundless as the world around us. I’m drawn to the structural magnificence of architecture, the warmth of well-designed interiors, and the profound impact of art through the ages. These global influences shape our collections, offering a blend of historical reverence and contemporary boldness. Narvan strives to bridge the gap between past and present, weaving the essence of timeless art into the fabric of modern fashion.
Where’s your favourite summer vacation spot?
In summer, my heart is captivated by the charm of Europe’s historic cities like Venice and Paris, where stories echo through the streets. Yet, Vancouver holds a special place in my soul, with its perfect mix of urban buzz and natural serenity, inspiring me to blend these elements into my designs. For peace and fresh inspiration, I escape to Salt Spring Island, BC, allowing its picturesque beauty to refresh my creativity and vision.
What can we expect from your brand in 2024?
photo from: Narvan
In 2024, expect Narvan Apparel to continue nurturing the connection between our designs and your most treasured moments. We’re not just creating clothes; we’re curating the backdrop to life’s most memorable scenes. Having introduced our distinctive fashion to international boutiques (Paris, New York, Toronto, Niagra-on-the-Lake) and hosted an immersive pop-up in Vancouver, we’re thrilled to venture into new territories with more pop-up experiences across North America and Europe. Anticipation is high for our upcoming showcase at Vancouver Fashion Week, where we will present a line that is both an evolution of Narvan and a homage to our journey thus far.
As Narvan grows, we’ll unite a community that values the art of fashion—a community of people who understand that an outfit isn’t just something you wear, it’s a piece of a story waiting to be told. Join us as we forge ahead, driven by the mission to make the world more beautiful, one extraordinary piece at a time.
Interested in reading past Behind the Brands? Click Here!
