I only discovered Ella Peru recently; another great addition to the already wonderful roster of great Canadian designers. The current collection is serene and colourful, a perfect match for the hot days and cool nights of the late summer. Designer and owner Su-Hui took some time to participate in our Designer Interview Series where she reveals that we share an (obsessive?) love for silk blouses!

Paper-Doll: How did you get into fashion design?
Su-Hui, designer for Ella Peru: I’ve always been into fashion, I always fussed about my clothes when I was younger and I’ve always been pretty crafty. I didn’t realize I wanted/could do it until I was 23, that’s when I went to school for it and the rest is history!

What is the first thing you designed (personally or professionally)?
My first official piece was a white raw silk pin striped tuxedo inspired corset. It was amazing.

When did you launch your Ella Peru?
Spring 2010.

What inspires you / your work?
Anything can really. People usually. Or Movies.

Describe your SS’11 Collection.
It’s silky and dreamy and I love it! I got some really beautiful silks and beautiful patterns. I used a few new shapes and a few old ones too. I like how it looks new, yet classic.

What is your favourite piece from your SS’11 Collection?
I like so many of them, I’m really proud of this collection. If I had to pick, I would say the St.Tropez Silk Shorts. They are the perfect mix of “sophisticated” and “casual”.

Did you have a personal soundtrack or a favourite album that you listened to while working on SS’11?
Yes actually! The Tallest Man On Earth. I especially love the second album, “The Wild Hunt”. If you haven’t listened to him you really must. I saw him in Vancouver last summer, he’s amazing to see live too.

What area of your work do you enjoy the most?
Definitely designing and fabric shopping. I love them both equally.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Definitely “owning” and “running” a business. It’s a HUGE job that is completely separate from fashion design. If I have ANY advice to give to anyone starting a label, I’d say “knowing your business and your numbers inside and out is WAY more important than you think”

What is the most surprising thing that has happened to you as a designer?
Well, that I’m still here. That I’m currently working on my 4th season and I’m looking forward to the future.

If you could collaborate with any designer / artist / musician / etc. on a single project, who would it be and what would you do?
I think that Lady Gaga and Kanye are pretty cool. I like how they’re passionate about their art. Actually, there are some pretty outstanding local designers that I would be so honoured to work with, like Dace and Eve Gravel.

If you could design a wardrobe for any one person (past/present/real/fictional), who would it be?
Audrey Hepburn.

How would you describe your own personal style?
Easy and edgy… classic… sophisticated and eclectic… all in one. These are all things I think of when I design for Ella Peru.

What is your favourite item in your personal wardrobe?
Right now, it’s my silk blouse. I love silk. It’s so easy to wear and it can instantly class up an evening outfit.

Where do you shop for clothes when you're not wearing your own?
I’m a shopper. I do a lot of shopping. My favorites’ are the little boutiques. I love that they always feel like you’re shopping in someone else’s wardrobe. They are always so characteristic of the owners themselves.

What is on your current fashion wishlist?
Like I said I love silk. I’m always looking for a new silk blouse or silk dress.

What fashion trend would you not be caught dead in?
I always prefer not to be too trendy. For instance, I really like HUNTER boots, but seeing them on everyone everywhere you go really killed it for me.

What is the one item that every woman should have in her closet?
A silk blouse!

What is your favourite thing about the city you live in? (Vancouver)
The mountains. They’re breathtaking.

If you couldn’t be a fashion designer, what other area of interest would you like to explore?
I’ve always been keen on cooking and hairdressing… I guess that means I really like to work with my hands.

What is next for your label?
HOLIDAY 2011. Instead of doing a fall/winter line, I’ve decided on “holiday”. I’m going to do pretty dresses and blouses and just the thing you want to wear over the holidays!

Visit: Ella Peru