interview

MUSE VERA VAN ERP - Designer A Modern Object

A Modern Object

A conversation with Vera van Erp founder of A Modern Object.

Find out who’s behind the Dutch upcoming brand that you will see all over your favorite influencers Instagrams and magazines soon. A designer, model and stylist: her unique aesthetic extends into everything she does - art, fashion, jewelry, furniture and interiors. Read more below in our interview with the Amsterdam based model and creative.

What was the inspiration for A Modern Object?

After a few years of working in the fashion business I created my own look; a tight ponytail and golden hoops. More often I noticed that I could inspire people with my look & people started asking me about my jewelry. To share this dressing experience, I decided to launch my own jewelry brand, A Modern Object. Timeless jewelry designed in Amsterdam that can add a contemporary edge to a classic look.

How did you come up with the idea for A Modern Object in the first place?

A funny thing to know is that I already knew I wanted to start a company called “A Modern Object” for about two years now. So, I bought the domain name & website URL back then but didn’t use it until now. I liked the name because the abbreviation “AMO” also contains the first three letters of A Modern Object.

I really love the pieces so far. Tell us everything about the creative process behind your collection.

I work very intuitive and think this is also the strength of the company. I only create jewelry pieces that I genuinely love myself and would wear on a daily basis. I find myself inspiration in Fashion, Photography, Art and Architecture. From here I start sketching in my little notebook that I bring everywhere. Most of my ideas come alive when I’m alone in the plane. There is something about flying that makes me think so clear and differently. After sketching I start translating my sketches into 3D models and the production company makes the first prototype. This is the magical phase where I can see my ideas coming alive.

As of now you only work with gold. Is this something you want to hold on to or eventually expand?

My first designs are all gold plated, because I’m a gold wearing person myself. The next collection will include pieces that have both silver & gold. Before people would never mix these two colors and materials, but I think it’s very modern nowadays to do so.  

How did you come up with the brand name?

The brand name really tells my brand philosophy; timeless jewelry for the modern woman.

What is the concept behind A Modern Object? And its philosophy?

It makes me happy to think that I can add a bit of beauty into this world & help woman feel beautiful.

Have you always been creative?

Yes, since I was a kid I preferred creating over learning. I was very social and quickly distracted. The standard school system was not really for me.  

Where do you find inspiration?

Honestly, everywhere. My biggest advice to people is, take a look around you. Instead of being on your phone, enjoy your taxi drive or daily walk to work, you might see more beauty than you think.

Who’s your ideal woman?

My mom & sister, because they are the most important women in my life.

How would you describe your style and who’s your style icon?

I would describe my style as classic with a contemporary edge. I wear a lot of monochrome colors but like to elevate it with eye-cathing jewelry & accessories.

Is there a celebrity you would like to see wearing one of your creations?

When I started modelling, they always told me, “you’re too short”, “you will never do runway”. I prove them wrong and walked shows for houses like Louis Vuitton & Celine. One journalist once wrote about me and called me little Kate Moss. So since then, I see Kate as my icon and would love to see her wearing one of my creations once.

What’s your life motto?

“Follow the sun”. It refers to my boyfriends & I favorite song. But also has this meaning, follow your intuition and dreams to me.

How do you switch off?

After travelling I love to come home and be with my family and friends. I also like to listen to a podcast or read a good book to switch off.

What are your projects for the future besides working on A Modern Object?

For now, I want to focus on my modelling career, styling jobs and A modern Object. In the future I would love to do something for a good cause.

Lastly, where do you see (or at least you hope to see) your brand in 10 years?

In 10 years, I hope A Modern Object is an established jewelry brand, a brand who makes women dream & feel beautiful.

Shop the collection here
January 21, 2022