When Loverboy first moved to Barcelona, it didn’t take us long to figure out which people were going to be added to our wishlist. The first time Eduardo Navarrete cropped up on our radar was when he appeared on the Spanish, reality, fashion show Maestros De La Costura – think Project Runway but…in Spanish.

Then a mutual friend introduced us and we have been planning to work together ever since! Last month he teamed up with his muse, singer Pepa Charro, or as he calls her La Terremoto de Alcorcón (The Earthquake of Alcorcón) and photographer Dominik Valvo for this exclusive shoot for Loverboy.

We then discuss how he began making clothes, his time on Maestros De La Costura and what the future holds for him and his label.

How old were you when you first started designing?
If I remember correctly, I was about seven and I carried a notebook with me where I drew standalone pieces of clothing. My muse at that time was my mother who wore skirts and big blouses…with a lot of cleavage! My first creations were felt brooches and buttons that I made when I was home alone because my father did not want me to sew!

Who did you first dream of dressing?
The truth is that when I started sewing, everything I made was for me! But when Pepa called me because she needed something to wear to the premiere of Tu Cara Me Suena, many more celebrities got in touch, like Agoney from Operacion Triunfo.

What themes have continued to inspire you?
Inspiration is for me the most important thing for any collection – it has to make sense. It doesn’t always come easily, sometimes it can take months to be inspired, sometimes when you least expect it! The thought of one day running out of inspiration is something I often worry about.

What is different about your latest collection?
My first collection, Dementia is a Woman’s Name, was my project for my final year at college. While I was designing it, I never imagined it would reach such a wide audience and I think that’s why I was really able to create what I wanted. In my next latest collection, UKOMABU, I am designing for an audience so I have to make wearable garments without losing my essence. It’s difficult but I like to think I have achieved this. I am sure people won’t be disappointed.

The types of model you choose are obviously very important. What do you look for in a model?
I have nothing against eighteen-year-old models, that are skinny and pale, but that is not who I design for. That doesn’t mean I like the Kardashian-style fashion – to me it’s vulgar. I just want someone 25-35 of average weight…and with an attitude!

Your brand is famous for using the face as the logo. How did you get the idea?
The truth is that right from the beginning I knew that serious faces were the main axis of the collection. My friend Mario Mendez, a photographer, was instrumental in the process of creating the image. We started with mine, so he shot me, turned it into a print and we took it from there.

Tell us about your relationship with Pepa Charro. How did you start working together?
I’ve known Pepa for over fifteen years. I’ve always been a big fan. A mutual friend, Tamara Pardo, introduced us. Pepa always has advice for me – she is very generous and has a very warm heart.

What did you learn from Maestros de la Costura?
In Maestros, I really learned how to make good television! But I also learned about sewing too! Haha….It was the best experience and I would do it all over again. A thousand times!

You had some friction with judge Lorenzo Caprile. How did you leave things?
Lorenzo deserves all respect because he is a great couturier. It’s true that during the show, we had our ups and downs, but don’t forget it was a talent show and some things were taken out of context.

What were the viewers’ reactions like? Were they all positive?
During the show I always tried to do what made me happy without thinking of the potential criticism. I don’t intend to please everyone. I have read some horrible things about me in the press but my family helps and they tell me not to let it get to me. I don’t use Twitter for this very reason.

Who do you admire most when it comes to the business side of fashion?
Without a doubt, my favourite designer is Stephane Rolland but if we’re talking about business then Prada’s Agatha Ruiz is the example I wish to follow.

What does the future hold for Eduardo Navarrete?
Hard work! Getting ready for collection MADRID FASHION WEEK. Soon, we will open our showroom in central Madrid!

Our name, Loverboy obviously comes from the Mariah Carey song. What is your favourite Mariah song?
To be honest, I’m not really a fan but I do like ‘Without You.’

To see more of Eduardo’s work, or to visit his shop online, go to www.eduardonavarrete.com.
Follow Eduardo on Instagram or follow his label here.

You can also follow Pepa on Instagram and see more of photographer, Dominik Valvo‘s work there too.

A big thanks to Isaac Salido for hair & make up and lending us his salon!