For designer Sonja Vejin, comfort should be every fashionista’s number one priority. Low and behold, the label SOSOVE was created. Having already quite the fashion background, the former stylist and founder of non-profit organization Sisters in Suits, decided to take her career to the next level. If you ask anyone who knows Sonja, you will know that ambition is her middle name and she is already starting to get attention all over Toronto. This new chapter has only just begun, but I was already anxious to know what is in store for this talented gal (and very dear friend of mine)!

Style Nine to Five: You have touched on so many other fashion projects before starting SOSOVE – fashion styling, fashion non-profit organizer – what attracted designing?

Sonja Vejin: After a while of thinking “I wish someone would make this” or “I love this piece but I wish it was longer, and it was done this way ”, I realized that I could do something about it. There were all these designs stuck in my head. I really loved the idea of bringing them to life.

SNTF:  There are so many wonderful fashion greats in Toronto that have been helping you out with your brand. Can you share, in your opinion, why it is so important to have industry mentors?

SV: I think everyone should have a mentor, regardless of what industry they’re in. A mentor is there to tell you bluntly “listen don’t go down that route, it won’t work, do this instead so you can focus on what really matters”.

There are some incredible people in Toronto that are really in it to help others out. I love hearing people’s opinions and criticisms on what I’m doing. I’ve always liked being surrounded by people who are honest and blunt. I’m not into sugar coating anything in life, especially my business. Mentors are great with that, and so, I genuinely value being in their company and listening to their advice.

SNTF: Tunics! What made you decide to design tunics first?

SV: I wanted to do something I was familiar with, and tunics, I know. It’s my favourite piece of clothing and I was interested to see if I can put my own spin on it.

SNTF: There are so many sport/casual wear labels out there – what makes SOSOVE different?

SV:I started designing SOSOVE on principles that I prefer in clothing; comfort and versatility. I tend to purchase clothing that sits comfortably on my body and that I can wear on many occasions and really get a use out of. This goes hand in hand with great workmanship.

SOSOVE is definitely casual, but there are elements to the designs that carry the piece from day to night.

SNTF: You just finished your pre-order summer sale. What’s in store for September 2013?

SV: I learned so much from the pre-launch sale of the petalhood tunic and now I’m armoured with information that I wouldn’t necessary have had had I not done it. At the end of September 2013, six pieces will be introduced, from tunic tanks to tunic dresses.

For more information visit www.sosovetunics.com or follow @sosovetunics. Images courtesy of www.sosovetunics.com

By: Mijana Veljkovic, Toronto

You should follow me on Twitter @mijanaveljkovic

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