At BrilliantRead Media, we always strive to bring meaningful and powerful stories from India and around the world to empower and motivate our growing community. As part of this endeavour, we invited Vandana Evanna for an exclusive interview with us. Vandana is an Entrepreneur, Leader, Fashion Business Coach, Author, Mentor, Fashion Event Expert, Influencer and Change Enabler. Vandana is the Founder of Evanna Fashions House. Let’s learn more about her incredible journey, her background, and her advice for our growing community!
Excerpts from our exclusive interview with Vandana:
Could you please talk us through your background and your journey?
Over the past 12 years, as the founder of “Evanna Fashions House”, I’ve had the privilege of piloting several successful brands within our umbrella, including Agragrami, Bohemian Jewellery, Rent Amenity, and VG Couture.
Since our inception in 2011, I’ve been deeply involved in the fashion industry, participating in numerous exhibitions, trade shows, and organizing 24 fashion shows in Singapore alone.
Beyond our Singapore endeavours, we’ve made our mark on the global market by showcasing our designs at prestigious international fashion weeks such as “Miami Fashion Week”, “Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia”, “World Fashion Week in Malaysia”, “Asia Lifestyle Week”, “Jaipur Couture Show”, “Goa Fashion Week” in India, and even “Aberdeen Fashion Week” in the UK.
In 2019, we expanded our horizons by launching another company, Asia Lifestyle Week, inviting designers from around the globe to present their collections. This venture has seen two successful seasons thus far, with plans for further growth and inclusivity in the future.”
As an author, I’ve penned the insightful book “Mode A La Fashion and Style Icon, Famed and Emerging Talents,” which has been launched at four distinct events held in Delhi, Jaipur, Singapore, and Scotland, UK. This book serves as a comprehensive guide for fashion enthusiasts and aspiring entrepreneurs alike, offering a glimpse into the journey of designers worldwide and providing invaluable insights for startups looking to establish and grow their businesses in the fashion industry.
With over a decade of experience in running a thriving fashion enterprise, I’ve embarked on a new venture as a “Fashion Business Coach”.
Through this initiative, I aim to share my wealth of knowledge and expertise to empower and guide aspiring fashion entrepreneurs in establishing and scaling their own ventures. It’s a testament to my passion for the industry and dedication to nurturing the next generation of fashion leaders.
How did you discover your passion?
Since childhood, I’ve been endlessly curious and creative, always eager to learn new things. I naturally gravitate towards counselling and teaching roles, finding fulfilment in guiding others.
My adventurous spirit, instilled by my mother, shapes my personal and professional choices. Exposure to global fine arts and paintings broadens my creative horizons. Biographies and music are my go-to sources of inspiration, fueling my growth and creativity.”
I believe in lifelong learning and constantly seek new experiences. This blend of influences moulds me into both a creative thinker and a supportive mentor.
Despite the challenges, what keeps you going when things get tough?
Despite dealing with Fibromyalgia (nerves Pains) for 32 years, I’ve faced its challenges head-on.
Living with health issues isn’t easy; it means giving up simple joys like going out with friends or dining at restaurants.”
But you know what? I’ve found a silver lining in these struggles. When you’re truly passionate about something, no obstacle, whether personal or professional, can derail your journey.
My determination and love for my craft keep me pushing forward, transforming obstacles into stepping stones toward success.
What are the three most important lessons you have learned in your life?
1. Resilience: Life is full of challenges and setbacks, but it’s our ability to bounce back and adapt that truly defines us. I’ve learned that resilience is key to overcoming obstacles and achieving success. Each setback is an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser, and I’ve come to appreciate the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
2. Gratitude: It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and forget to appreciate the little things. I’ve learned that gratitude is essential for finding joy and fulfilment. Taking the time to acknowledge and express gratitude for the blessings in my life has helped me cultivate a positive mindset and find contentment in the present moment.
3. Continuous Learning: The world is constantly evolving, and there’s always something new to discover and learn. I’ve learned the importance of staying curious and embracing lifelong learning. Whether it’s through formal education, personal experiences, or simply seeking out new perspectives, I’ve found that continuous learning enriches my life and keeps me inspired.
These lessons have been instrumental in shaping my personal and professional growth, and I strive to apply them in all aspects of my life.
In your opinion, what are the keys to success?
In my opinion, the keys to success include:
– Clear Vision and Goals
– Hard Work and Perseverance
– Continuous Learning and Growth
– Resilience and Adaptability
– Effective Communication and Collaboration
– Positive Attitude and Mindset
– Integrity and Ethical Behavior
By incorporating these principles into your approach to life and work, you can increase your chances of achieving success and fulfilment.
What advice would you give students and young professionals who want to have a successful career?
Stay humble and modest, stay original and genuine, stay real and authentic.
Upcoming designers generally have 1 question: should they try to follow trends or follow their own ideals?
This comes down to what direction the designers would like the brand to go. You might earn a quick bucks when you closely follow trends, but that also means that you will be fiercely competing with the fast fashion labels; then again, by following your own ideals you must learn to carve a niche for yourself, if you get lost in translating your clothes to customers, you might not be able to survive on your ideals alone.
Last but not least, what about your journey makes it satisfying/exciting?
What makes my journey satisfying and exciting is the recognition and appreciation I’ve received from companies worldwide, all based on the excellence of my work in the fashion industry.
It fills me with gratitude to know that I haven’t had to pay anything to be featured in the media or to receive awards.
Some of the accolades I’ve been honoured with include the
ASEAN Lady of Excellence Award,
International Creative Talent Award in Fashion Project,
Mrs. International Cover Lady, and
the Asia Pacific Golden Brand Award, among others.
Additionally, my business achievements, such as founding Evanna Fashions House and Asia Lifestyle Week, and serving as a corporate trainer for soft skills, add to the fulfilment of my journey.
I’ve had the privilege of organizing and participating in numerous fashion shows and weeks around the world, authored a book titled “Mode a la Fashion & Style Icons,” and contributed to costume designing in a TV series and a movie in Singapore. Being featured in interviews and fashion articles in magazines, newspapers, and TV channels in Singapore, the USA, and the UK further validates the excitement and satisfaction of my journey in the fashion industry.
BrilliantRead is committed to bringing stories from the startup ecosystem, stories that reshape our perspective, add value to our community and be a constant source of motivation not just for our community but also for the whole ecosystem of entrepreneurs and aspiring individuals.
Note: If you have a similar story to share with our audience and would like to be featured on our online magazine, then please write to us at [email protected], we will review your story and extend an invitation to feature if it is worth publishing.
