K-OODI Magazine March 2016, Issue 4 | Page 181

You are from Martinique although you've spent most of your life in Europe. You've mentioned that you were brought up by a proud lady who happened to be a very talented seamstress. Was she an early influence to you when it comes to fashion? The lady in question was my grand-mother's sister. She brought me up and loved me as her own son. She did a lot more than influencing me. She loved me unconditionally and taught me I could do anything I wanted. Yeroglyph products also carry a deeper meaning, a spiritual and cultural meaning. Can you tell us more about that? I love the idea of sharing and celebrating diversity but also ancient spiritual traditions. I've traveled all over the world and I'm grateful to have been exposed to many cultures. I've always thought that no matter how different we may look or behave we still have a lot more in common than we like to think. I'm especially fond of sacred geometry. It is sometimes described as music for the eyes. Personally I find it very aesthetically beautiful but the fact that it means so much and on so many levels makes it even more captivating. The Platonic Solids featured on the scarves are a perfect example. They're the basis of every single living organism on Earth and can be observed all around us if we look carefully. They're linked to the elements (fire, water, air...) but also energy centres on the human body. So it's not just pretty, it's also got meaning. It seems creating Yeroglyph is a personal tribute and adventure on many levels. It's very fulfilling to act on a childhood dream and try everything to make it come true. You are a professional photographer as well, and I understand you produce all the promotional material for the brand as well? I shot the models wearing the scarves but I hired a professional product photographer because it's not my forte. Another photographer from Wales is shooting some different models. It's important to let other people express how the brand and clothes talk to them so there will be many more collaborations in the future. What are the core values of Yeroglyph? Sustainable: that's why we produce in the UK, using Ecofriendly fibers, recycled paper and mailing bags. High quality, meaning you will keep the clothes for many years. Comfort inspired by sportswear adapted to urban lifestyle. Meaningful designs that celebrate diversity. What has been the most challenging in terms of starting the brand and moving to an entirely new business? The most challenging is to step back and work with other people who are not as emotionally close to the brand and involved as I am, to provide a more objective point of view. What has been the most rewarding moment so far? The first customer compliment. What would you like Yeroglyph to become? What are your plans for the future?