FANNIE SCHIAVONI

...finding versatility in a passion for handcraft and attention to detail

Born in Sweden, Fannie Schiavoni moved to London when she was 18 to study tailoring. She later progressed to the BA Fashion Design Technology course at London College of Fashion and did a number of internships alongside her studies for designers such as Hussein Chalayan, Giles Deacon and Julien Macdonald. Specialising in womenswear, Fannie also designed accessories to be part of her final year collection. Her background in tailoring created a passion for handcraft and attention to detail. This is reflected in her pieces, which are all designed and crafted by hand, ring by ring, by Fannie in her studio in London. She works with muted colours to keep the focus on the shape and design of her pieces. She’s drawn to androgyny, strong clean lines and geometric forms. The versatility of the pieces, as they can be layered and worn in different ways, allows multiple looks from a single item. The raw and distinctive shape of the chains can make any outfit stand out.

Nothing inspires me like…
My hometown. The landscape, the light, the colours and the people.

I hope…
For pea soup and pancakes on Thursdays, all Swedes will know what I’m talking about.

Cultural influences…
Will always be used as inspiration by designers. I think it’s incredibly sad how cultures and traditions today are forgotten. My inspiration for my collection was very personal to me. I wanted to create something inspired by my own background and traditions. I wanted to recreate a feeling of belonging.

I got where I am...
Not because of talent, but pure hard work.

Fashion can sometimes...
Make me want to scream. It’s not a pretty industry and I learned that the hard way. But I honestly believe it’s one of the most creative industries and I’m very happy I stuck with it through the hard times.

Love now because…
Tomorrow you might wake up and realise you’re a miserable old cow incapable of human compassion. I’ve seen it happen.

Creativity comes from…
Very early mornings. Silence is gold.

I have never…
Stolen anything worth more than £2.

I once thought…
I was going to marry MacGyver, my childhood hero. He had it all!

Pain comes from…
Your own weaknesses.

Studios make me…
Happy. You can feel the creativity surrounding you.

My first crush...
Shot the look book for my latest collection. Charli Ljung is an amazing photographer based in Paris.

I get bored easily...
I never get bored; I have too much to do. Boredom is for people who stopped or never started dreaming.

I don't think...
Anyone should ever wear white leggings... ever!

I tried to live...
Without a TV and Internet for a month. I’ve never felt so free...

I like making...
A mess in my studio. I can’t work if I can’t actually see all my stuff at the same time...

I wouldn't wait...
Anyone to get bored, so I’ll stop now.

FANNIE SCHIAVONI ON NJAL