These days, "multi-hyphenates" have become such a cliché. You know, the "actor/realtor/chef/entrepreneur" labels that everyone slaps down on a business card to look impressive? Well, today's FFR interview is with a true Renaissance woman, Efva Attling, who is a real-deal model/singer/designer with the credentials to back it up. It's kind of hard to even go into her background without fangirl-ing out, so read the first question below to get Efva's own take on her high-profile career. Besides being superfamous in Sweden for both her ridiculous good looks and her tremendous talent, over the last two decades she has conquered the U.S. with her take on sculptural, fluid, fine jewelry designs that are often based on her own lyrics. We'd basically buy anything this woman is selling, including her first signature scent, which promises: "You'll be noticed when you walk into the room and you'll be missed when you've left." We're so smitten that we believe it.
“My wedding ring. I made it when I came back to make jewelry in ‘96. It’s not round and perfect but it’s LOVE! ”
If you do only one thing today, it's better be watching this vintage video of X Models (with Efva on lead vocals) performing their huge Swedish hit "Två Av Oss" (Two of Us). It is epic and is now currently on repeat at all FFR offices.
How long have you been designing and what did you do prior?
In 2016 I will celebrate 20 years, yay! I started making jewelry when I was 17 but was discovered by model agent Eileen Ford. [Ed. note: She modeled for for 12 years. NBD.] Then I was fed up and went back to Sweden and started to write music, formed a pop group named X Models and had a huge hit which I wrote myself called “Two of Us” in Swedish. Meanwhile I was designing clothes for H&M and had my own TV show. Right before I found my way back to jewelry I was a fashion editor. [Ed. note 2: OH MY GOD WE ARE EXHAUSTED AND ENTHRALLED JUST READING THAT.]
Tell us about your inspiration for the current collection. Was it designed with COUTURE in mind?
I don’t think in terms of pleasing that way! I design what comes up in head – I only have to love it myself. Part of the collection I showed was called Barcelona, which was inspired by an elevator door from the ‘20s in Barcelona.
Name another fine jewelry designer that you are a fan of and tell us why.
I always liked Elsa Peretti because of her shapes. She's been one of the best jewelry designers!
Gemstone you can’t get enough of?
Ha ha, diamonds, of course.
What’s your favorite piece that you’ve recently purchased?
I only wear my own jewelry but sometimes I do buy some antique pieces.
What is the most sentimental piece of jewelry that you own and what's the backstory?
My wedding ring. I made it when I came back to make jewelry in ‘96. It's not round and perfect but it's LOVE! People said that you shouldn't make your own wedding rings. I'm not superstitious and I've had a happy marriage for 20 years.
Next time FFR is visiting your home base, where do we eat?
Stockholm has so much to offer. I suggest you go to the south part of the city if you're young and to the city if you're more mature!
Best cocktail bar? (For a sophisticated sip AND ponying up to a pub – we are Geminis, so we need both options.)
The Cordier bar at the Grand Hotel for more sophisticated style and Barbro under the bridge at Hornstull for a cooler crowd.
What’s your preferred mode of transportation day-to-day?
My Car service on the Lower East Side when I'm at my apartment in NY or I'll take the bus to watch people and for inspiration.
Top 5 bands in your playlist?
-Otto knows / Next to you (my son Simon wrote and is singing the song)
-Adam Lambert (Ghost town)
-Tove Lo
-The Beatles
- Jazz music
Celebrity Crush?!
Julianne Moore
If you could only carry one handbag for the rest of your life, what would it be?
My white Birkin (or the black one). [Ed. note: Nope, still not jealous. Not at all.]
Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter?
Instagram, sometimes Twitter, never had any interest in Facebook.
What’s your signature scent and what three words would you use to describe it?
My first perfume – Amor Vincit Omnia – it's a true scent of a warm loving woman!
If you could do anything else for a living, what would it be and why?
Maybe a psychologist. There is nothing more exciting then the Human being.
Where’s the last destination you visited that inspired your work?
Here in my house in Italy. Thats when I come up with new ideas. Now I'm making plans for my new Bridal collection.
Flats or heels? (And what’s your current favorite pair?)
Actually, my Vince sandals or my Gladiator sandals from H&M and Manolos for heels.
You’re on a shopping mission in your hometown. Where is your go-to for the perfect party outfit? Housewarming gift?
I love Acne so I got to their flagship store in Stockholm or to NK, our Barneys – you'll find everything there.
If we were filming the reality show of your life, what would your tagline be? (Think Real Housewives!)
“I made this (with two hands and one brain)!”