The epitome of femininity: an interview with Shani Farhi
Israeli-born, London-based fashion designer, Shani Farhi, founded luxury fashion brand Code Le Vush in 2012 after completing a BA in fashion design. With a love for all things fashion from a young age, Shani discusses her influences, her background and her plans for the future.
What are the inspirations and feelings behind your designs?
Shani Farhi: For me its luxury femininity. It’s all about feminine, soft, silent power. The shape, cut and pattern has to be right and it has to fit perfectly. It should be empowering for women as currently femininity is disappearing and the androgynous look is becoming popular.
Why did you decide to go into fashion?
It was always what I wanted to do from a young age. I used to dress up my poor younger brother and I’ve always been obsessed with fabrics and everything that is fashion.
You grew up in Tel Aviv, what are the main differences and similarities between the fashion scene here and there?
You can compare Israel to London: it’s much smaller, but the Tel Aviv fashion scene is growing with a lot of up-and-coming designers. I find the fashion scene is much more open-minded and versatile in London.
Does your background influence your designs; what was it like growing up in Israel?
Yes, definitely. I love Israel, but there are much more opportunities in London and it’s super inspiring. Tel Aviv’s architecture is very different and inspiring. I feel my designs are influenced by a fusion of London and my roots, what I’ve experienced growing up I take with me.
You say the fabrics for your Spring Summer ’14 collection are mainly sourced from UK mills and that you aim to make Code Le Vush a local, British brand. Why is this?
I love the London fashion industry and believe in supporting local manufacturers. There are amazing products and people with really good skills in this Country and by keeping it closer to home I have more control over my products as it’s easier to manage if it’s nearby.
Describe the ultimate Code Le Vush woman?
Code Le Vush isn’t for one specific woman; not only one kind of person can wear my designs. They epitomise the modern, sophisticated woman, who is comfortable in her own skin. A cool East London girl can wear my designs as well as a girl from Chelsea!
Who are your favourite designers, and are there any you would like to collaborate with?
I’d love to collaborate with Ron Arad, he’s an Israeli industrial designer and completely different to me so I’d be intrigued to see how we’d collaborate together.
What are your feelings on the current fashion industry?
That’s a tricky question. I really like what the younger designers are doing right now. It’s really important to know what’s going on but I do what’s right for me. My own inspirations and ideas go into my brand and designs and that’s what feels right for me. I find young, emerging designers intriguing but it’s always interesting to be aware of what other designers are doing in fashion.
What are your plans for the future and visions for the brand?
Right now it’s really early days. Every collection is going to be better and stronger. I’m focusing on trying to build brand awareness and getting my collection in stores.
The designs are effortlessly feminine yet strong, defined and impeccably made.
Talicia Ramsey
To find out more and to shop the collection visit here.
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