About

Ovate explores the synthesis of poetic romanticism and the spare beauty of simplicity, where artistry and functionality coalesce in a liminal space.

Each garment begins with noble materials—linen, cotton, wool, and silk— in a gradation of black and muted, neutral tones. Natural fibres and tactile textures are best complemented by a desaturated, monochromatic palette.

Genuine beauty lies in imperfection. Human creations, much like those of the natural world, are given life by their asymmetries and irregularities. Drawing upon these essential concepts, as well as folk costume and textile history, the result is as singular as the raw materials from which it is wrought.

Every Ovate garment is entirely handcrafted by my assistant and I in Montreal, Canada. Each piece is drafted, cut, sewn, pressed, and packaged by hand, by the two of us. Our operation remains intentionally small, with quantities limited to what we can produce ourselves.

Ovate has been worn by Chelsea Wolfe, Zola Jesus, Myrkur, Emma Ruth Rundle, Marissa Nadler, and Jarboe, as well as members of Nine Inch Nails and Amenra.

Founded in 2010, Ovate continues to evolve alongside me. Refining its aesthetic, ethics, and philosophy is an ongoing journey. I am continually seeking to improve both my work and my methods, with the aim of offering carefully considered, handcrafted pieces that will be cherished and worn for many years.

Yours very truly,

Audrey Cantwell

 

 

All photographs on this website taken by Audrey Cantwell.

 

For all enquiries  :  contact@ovate.ca