Designer Profile: Jordan Stewart, RVNG

We have been following luxury Canadian fashion label RVNG since the launch of its F/W 2020 collection.

Now, CAFA-nominated designer Jordan Stewart‘s use of bold colour, feminine detailing and glamorous embellishment has caught the fashion world’s attention.

Last week, RVNG made its New York Fashion Week (NYFW) *virtual* debut with Stewart’s Dream Collection, full of vivid hues, breathtaking necklines and plenty of sparkle.

We had a chance to speak with Stewart after her first NYFW show. Read the exclusive interview below.

Stewart and a model wearing a dress from the Dream Collection at the designer’s NYFW presentation

SC: If you can sum it up, what’s your story in the fashion industry? 

JS: I can’t remember a time that fashion wasn’t my focus. As a little girl, it’s all I dreamed about and it has been my constant. Making people feel beautiful is what I care about most. It has been a long fifteen-year journey of working in the fashion industry that has ultimately brought me to NYFW.

RVNG Couture

SC: This was your first time presenting at NYFW. Congratulations! How did it feel?

JS: It felt surreal to have my collection walk in NYFW. A dichotomy of excitement and nerves flooded in as I awaited the world’s reaction. It has been a wonderful experience of giving my all.

RVNG Couture

SC: NYFW looked very different this year. Can you take us through the process of developing a virtual show?

JS: The stage was a new one but it has been an exciting time to reinvent a viewpoint of how we can all stay connected in our art. The production itself introduced new challenges such as directing and producing. For me, the ultimate goal was to translate how the clothing feels in person through the screen. Its a new way of communicating fashion.

RVNG backstage

SC: The collection was stunning. What was your inspiration?

JS: The Dream Collection for me is the foundation of my company: the dream. It is one of optimism and so, it was devoid of any dark colours. I wanted to inspire what’s next for us as a fashion community. The fact that we are showing in a new and virtual way and that we are pivoting as a fashion community is the inspiration behind my hope. The soft palate is an ode to finding a new happy, together.

RVNG Couture

SC: Who or what has been a strong influence on you throughout the course of your life?

JS: My parents. I think a lot of who we are stems from who they allow us to believe we can be. It’s through their leadership, love, and kindness that I was able to try.

RVNG Couture

SC: Besides debuting at NYFW, what has been the most thrilling moment in your professional career as a designer?

JS: NYFW is at the top, but another highlight would be seeing my gowns on the award season red carpets. Being able to see my gowns at the Oscars, Golden Globes and Emmys was thrilling!