Designer Files | Fam Irvoll
Today Story Magazine brings you the latest in the segment that sees us interview some of the most interesting fashion brands of our times. Up for interview today is Fam Irvoll the Norwegian fashion designer who marries the cheeky with the political. Please read on for her answers.
1. Why fashion design and how did you decide to become a fashion designer?
I have always been a creative person, but it’s a complete coincidence that I ended up in fashion. I was travelling around Asia and my mum was like- hey perhaps you should study something soon. I asked her to apply to all schools that had a creative sort of path, she did and the first one I got into was ESMOD, which is a fashion school in Norway. I loved it and after those 3 years, I moved to London and did a second bachelor degree in fashion knitwear at Central Saint Martins.
2. Two words that always come to mind with reference to your work are ‘playful’ and ‘colourful’. Has this been intentional from the start?
It’s not intentional, but Im extremely drawn to color and print mixed with beading and sequins. It’s therapy for me to sit and do small intrecate beading projects. I love it.
There is also always a secret political message in all my collections even though its playful and quirky somethimes. I want people that come to my fashion shows to walk out smiling.
3. What matters more to you form or function?
Probably form. But not in every piece. I’m all about seeing how far you can take fashion. It’s far and fun, but not always that functional.
4. What’s on your current moodboard ? What is inspiring you currently?
It’s a lot of knitwear at the moment. I’m currently starting a second brand. This brand I am starting with a friend called Hele Olafsen, she is a snowboard champion here in Norway, and we are doing our brand DAAE. So lots of knitwear and wool.
On my moodboard is lots of 70s prints, skiing in chamonix back in the day and Grace Kelly.
5. Tell us a bit about your current collection.
So my current collection was all about the 60s Edie Sedgwick and MOD period. Very political collection, first Trump, Brexit, how we have treated all the refugees fighting for their lives while we do nothing. With this collection I want to scream out loud. STOP!
6. How has being Scandinavian affected your work as a fashion designer?
Fashion in Scandinavia is very minimaslistic and very kind of ACNE aesthetic. I would say im the opposite to that, and have always wanted to be something different from that simple minimalistic vibe that i’m surrounded by.
7. Who is the Fam Irvoll woman?
I’m not sure as its all kind of people from really old to young children (I have a childrens line too) but obviously people that can appreciate some saucy prints and some and colors.
8. If you could dress any celebrity who would it be and why.
I think that would have to be like Madonna during the 80s or like Courtney Lowe or definitly Bjørk, Grace Jones and Robyn because they have always been innovative in a way I find super interesting. If I did mens I would love to dress Jared Leto or Harry Styles.
9. How can we all inject more colour into our outfits and closet?
Even I don’t wear as much color on a regular basis, but I definitly think that we should invest in some great colorful accssesiores and some small pieces that can light up the whole outfit.
10. Three words that you would use to describe your brand?
Quirky, colorful, political.
Story Magazine loves Fam’s answers and line. Thank you to her for the interview. Please visit her brand here.