Evan Yurman, Next in Line for the David Yurman Empire - Exclusive Interview

by Annie Scott (RSS feed)
Jun 30th 2010 at 9:02AM

Last year when we talked to David Yurman (David Yurman at Bloomingdales - Exclusive Interview), he spoke about working as a husband-and-wife team and alluded to the increasing involvement of his son in the family business. Evan Yurman has helped with the men's collections, and now, has even designed his own collection of women's eyewear (known to non-industry folks as "sunglasses") for David Yurman.

We talked to Evan Yurman, the next in line for the David Yurman empire, about more than just fancy shades -- read the interview below for a peek inside this fiery fashion heir; a talented designer in his own right. Just scroll down to see the amethyst-studded beauties which grace his sparkling collection ($695).

Luxist: Have you always been involved in the family business?

Evan Yurman: I officially joined the company in 2004. Before then, I spent time cutting and carving with my knife collection; it was part of my eventual growth into design. Creativity has always been part of my life, so it is great to have an outlet to explore my ideas.

L: What do you foresee in the future of the Yurman collections?

EY: We will continue to incorporate unique, artisanal elements into our collections while staying true to our brand DNA of innovation in the modern tradition. I like integrating different textures and motifs -- rhino, sea urchin, waves, chevron are some of my favorites.

L: If you weren't a designer, what would you be?

EY: A race car driver, maybe. I love collecting cars, it's a hobby and passion of mine.

L: Do you listen to music when you design, and if so, what?

EY: It really depends on my mood, but I tend to listen oldies and classics when designing.

L: Who, living or dead, would you love to have wear your jewelry?

EY: A young Marlon Brando.

L: What inspires you?

EY: I am really interested in stones and Asian artifacts. The new Waves collection for Men is inspired by Japanese tsubas that carried a waves motif. My family, wife and daughter, inspire me daily as well. They are both beautiful and creative

L: Why sunglasses?

EY: Eyewear was a natural extension for us. We consider it jewelry for the eyes, so we created a collection that perfectly reflects and complements our jewelry.

L: What kind of woman is the new women's eyewear collection for?

EY: The David Yurman woman -- someone who has an innate sense of style and who appreciates quality.

Tags: David Yurman, DavidYurman, designer interview, DesignerInterview, Evan Yurman, EvanYurman, eyewear, sunglasses