This time next year, two West Kelowna, B.C., women will be basking in the afterglow of what will be a dream for many.
Donna and Danielle Cheven have been invited to Paris Fashion Week 2023, where they will show their jewelry line, Karolli Finery.
It’s a big undertaking for any small fashion company, but it’s even more impressive considering how far their home Okanagan is from any style center.
It’s a fact not lost on Daniel, Donna’s daughter, and the company’s marketing arm. During the pandemic, they considered moving east, where many of their customers were but staying put and where the fashion world moved with them instead.
In recent months the company has been covered by British Vogue, Vanity Fair and Glamor UK.
“All the Conde Naste brands came to us and … (at the time) I checked that they were legit, it was a shock to us,” said Danielle.
After the shock wore off, Danielle saw two reasons for their continued success, which manifested itself in an invitation to apply to Paris Fashion Week and then confirmation that they would be included.
“First of all, my mom is the most talented person I’ve ever met, although obviously I’m biased,” says Danielle.
“Growing up, we had an art gallery and she made jewelry at university, and the designs she came up with were nothing like what was on the market. They were big, bold, beautiful statement pieces that were very free – imperfect.
They are like Carioli Finery’s target market, which is another secret ingredient to their success.
“We’re only targeting women over 50,” Danielle said. “The industry overlooks women over 40. It’s something we talk to our clients about… it’s about accepting the age you are and celebrating it and celebrating aging.”
Considering that they are included in one of the biggest international fashion events, that might be worth a lot of people.
Chevens will know for sure next October
You will be heading to Fashion Week with the Flying Solo brand, a curated fashion collection that brings together creatives from around the world.
The invitation came in September and already the Chevens have had two highlight meetings so they are fully engaged in what they need to offer.
They will have eight sets of eight different shapes.
“Mom is making necklaces, bracelets and earrings for each collection,” says Danielle. “Then in August, the creative director looks at the brands and matches us with the costume designer, and the two of us collaborate.”
And if everything goes according to plan, the two local women will get a whirlwind view of what Paris Fashion Week looks like.
“The first day we get there, we’ll be on the boat, then we’ll have designer meetings where we’ll meet the team in person. On the third day, there’ll be a dress rehearsal, and the next day will be the show itself,” she said.
And, if you survive the intense pressure and excitement, there will be a very worthy opportunity to enjoy some time in Europe.
& Copy 2022 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
