Designer
Gefferson Vila Nova
Executing an unorthodox approach to design whilst channeling an aesthetic that depicts references of the prevalent sports luxe trend that has come to define a generation, Gefferson Vila Nova’s vision is one that resonates with the young Brazilian culture. Fundamentally injecting a fresh lease of life to an assortment of fabrications that include energizing traditional shapes and perplexing manufacturing practices, the upcoming designer who hails from Salvador, Brazil, juxtaposes tech materials and vivid hues to formulate innovative and extremely covetable collections. “It’s tropical and colorful and reflects the richness of Brazil’s identity,” says Nova.
His sartorial identity revolves around the idea of constructing and reconstructing garments, crafting unique pieces that portray a new level of creative dexterities to appeal to today’s fashion-forward guru. Recognition for Nova’s design talent has rapidly accumulated among Brazil, the birthplace to where his eponymous line was launched in 2013.
Nova originates from the small village of Buracica, in North-eastern Brazil, and is the youngest sibling of a traditional small-town family. The perception of colors and silhouettes emerged from him during his early childhood days, when his mother introduced him to an assortment of art supplies. This period was an initial observation of how Nova wasn’t going to conform in his conservative school, opting to indulge in his somewhat flamboyant and rebellious nature, where he would frequently practice his drawing abilities, read glossy publications and art books and convert his gaze to fashion shows on TV. The aspiring longing to become a fashion designer arrived shortly after his adolescent phase.
An internship with a local brand earnt Nova an invaluable insight into the world of design, encompassing a unification of dexterities including fabric manipulation, drapery and pattern cutting. He was elected to display his first graduate collection in 2007 at the Brasilia Capital Fashion Week Show, and since then has additionally exhibited in Sao Paulo’s fashion events including Hot Spot Fashion Show and “Casa de Criadores” Fashion Show.
Nova’s latest sartorial line, entitled ‘#PlayCollection’ reflects elements of futuristic aesthetics and the universe of sportswear – translating as characteristics that are eternally current throughout the brand’s collections. “The #edition7 brings a mix of references” explains the designer, “from elements of men’s tailoring – tuxedo shirt, cuffs and sleeve placket to elements of surfwear, such as traditional surf shorts and their shoelace. The iconic design of the surf short arrives in the scene revisited in fabric like satin Duchesse and its closure transits from the mini-skirts to tailoring trouser.”
“Nickel buttons, technological fabrics like Tyvek – DuPont and classic tweed with silver foil printed, give the future tone to shapes ranging from oversized to slim fit. It is an unfettered collection that proposes a game of street scene and cosmopolitan, without losing the aesthetic identity of the brand that always proposes a rereading of some classics of clothing in an avant-garde vision,” vocalizes Nova.
With an emphasis on cut, Nova creates exceptional forms and trend-led silhouettes that illustrate his sophisticated and multiculturalism ideas that appeal to his young, modern and chic customer who imbues an infectious spirit.
Words by Katie Farley
Photographer: Pedro Bonacina
Creative Direction and Styling: Mauricio Mariano and Alessandro Lazaro
Beauty: Vanessa Sena
Model: Thais Borges
Retouching: Caroll Ferreira
