Adding luster to one’s personality, for a woman, remains of paramount importance. This week, we shake off those traditional chunks for some new-age finery. 

Caught in elegance, detail, and muted tones, the jewellery label Cher. is keen on featuring wooden pieces - meticulously hand-crafted collections using locally sourced materials and stones. The label suited for daily wear, is fresh; trimming smartly the harshness of a gaudy mess where possible. According to Founder Chevonne de Soysa, this is their ethos. Excerpts from an email interview are as follows:

Chevonne

“The collection is a project nourished by passion. I have always loved jewellery and accessories and the collection began as a hobby and creative outlet. With Cher. by Chevonne, I have tried to create a complete collection that includes fine everyday wear pieces as well as some designs which are more distinctive in style to make a statement, be it a subtle or elegant one!.I design pieces that I would like to wear and hope that others would too. I would like the collection to offer timeless pieces that don’t quickly move in and out with current trends.”

Can you tell us about the name ‘Cher’ and what kind of woman it’s aimed at? What led you to work with jewellery?

Cher is my nickname, short for Chevonne. The collection is a project nourished by passion. I have always loved jewellery and accessories and the collection began as a hobby and creative outlet. With Cher. by Chevonne, I have tried to create a complete collection that includes fine everyday wear pieces as well as some designs which are more distinctive in style to make a statement, be it a subtle or elegant one!

Your creations evoke a collision of both worlds; subtle and solid. Has moving to Sri Lanka from Australia sparked any value conducive to design?

I am grateful for having had the opportunity to spend time in both Australia and Sri Lanka which has shaped my style and design aesthetic. 
I would say my current collection may appeal more to the Australian market, where there is a lot of value placed on unusual designs and use of unique materials. In Sri Lanka, I feel the market is still a bit more traditional and the appreciation for jewellery is through the value of the stones and the metal. However, I believe this is gradually changing as there is more demand for wearable jewellery that sits somewhere between costume and precious jewellery, which doesn’t necessarily have to be locked away in a safe! 

We see that you’re influenced by natural elements?

I do really love neutral, earthy tones and textures, which carry through in my personal style as well as in my home. I feel that they are timeless and soothing to the eye. They are also a good base pallet to build on with colour and prints.
My husband really helped me to appreciate nature in its true form; he loves wildlife and is an amazing wildlife photographer, so we spend a lot of time on safari, which gives me inspiration. 

Three favourite style icons from the industry and why?

Samantha Wills - an Australian jewellery designer who started small, hand making jewellery on her kitchen table. She now has an international jewellery empire. I love her collection and find her to be an inspiration as a business woman.
Blake Lively - I feel that her style is the perfect balance between edgy, chic and feminine. She is always accessorised to perfection!  
And closer to home, Annika Fernando - I work with Annika as our collection is stocked at her boutique, PR. I admire her for being able to juggle many successful businesses as well as a family.

What’s next? How do you envision a future in keeping with fashion trends 
for your brand?

I have to admit that I am not the most up-to-date with following fashion trends; I design pieces that I would like to wear and hope that others would too. I would like the collection to offer timeless pieces that don’t quickly move in and out with current trends.