Workin’ it Eve Gravel Style

Cindy Cook

Eve Gravel is one of Montreal’s most promising young talents in fashion design today, so when I received an invitation to her VIP sale cocktail, I immediately thought – hell yeah!

An unassuming building in the industrial Plateau gave way to an enormous, loft-style workspace with an unobstructed view of the entire East Side.  Eve, herself, greeted me at the door with an enthusiastic “Hi, come in.” Not quite ready because of an ill-fitting belt, she had someone whip up a quick fix and, voila, a perfectly put together fashion designer was ready for a glass of wine. It all looked so fun.

“It is fun,” Eve said. “We practically live here.” At 27, Eve Gravel looks like she is having the time of her life designing a successful line based on her own good taste. “I get ideas from people around me, and then I design what I’d like to have in my own closet,” she said This season, I have used a lot of knits and tartans; I have a retro style going on right now.”

Eve describes her style as classic but edgy. “There is no year for it and no particular person; my designs can be worn by rock stars as well as by lawyers; it all depends on how it’s put together.” Most notable as I sifted through the racks of merchandise (at a steal of a price for that night only) were the interesting cuts and quality fabrics. I knew I wasn’t leaving empty handed.

As the party heated up, Eve was whisked away by friends and fellow designers who came to take advantage of this half-price opportunity. I was more than happy to resign myself to an hour or two of shopping before heading out the door. I wanted it all but chose two pairs of pants. One “edgy” little number with an elastic detail around the ankle and one low rise, boot cut, standard, “take me anywhere” black pant. That’s me I suppose — somewhere between lawyer and rock star.

The Eve Gravel label can be found throughout Canada in boutiques and major department stores such as the Bay, and Simon’s.

Eve Gravel: www.evegravel.com.