Philippe Vergez

My journey into design was not a straight line, it was shaped by experiences, inspirations, and a deep connection to music, memories, and emotions. I grew up with an artistic influence, always drawn to creating things with my hands. At first, my designs were out of necessity, whether I was making skateboards, surfboards, or customizing my clothes. This creative drive only grew stronger, leading me to a professional career where I could truly express myself. I’ve always been motivated by the idea of creating meaningful pieces, whether that’s jewelry or eyewear, that resonate with people and evoke emotions. VERGEZ was born from this desire to create designs that tell stories and leave lasting impressions.

VERGEZ is more than just a brand. It's an ongoing journey, one that blends passion, authenticity, and a touch of rebellion. It’s a reflection of my values, living unconventionally, embracing freedom, and being true to yourself. My design process is highly personal, inspired by the world around me, the music I listen to, and the moments that define life. Each collection tells a story and invites the wearer to connect with it. The global idea is to craft pieces that bridge art and craftsmanship.

Design is about more than aesthetics. It’s about creating a connection between the object and the wearer. I see it as a way to communicate a story, an emotion, and a vision. Good design doesn’t just look beautiful; it enhances the wearer’s experience and reflects something personal about them. The best designs are those that feel like they were always meant to be, that have a natural harmony with the person who wears them.

I’m drawn to designs that hold deep meaning, whether that’s a tribute to a song, a person, or a moment in time. For me, the best designs are those that evoke emotions or memories, that allow the wearer to connect with something beyond just the physical piece. I find inspiration in music, nature, and the raw emotions they stir within me. Collections like “With or Without You” and "Double Trouble" are perfect examples of how music and memories inspire my work. These pieces invite the wearer to experience something deeply personal.

A new upcoming collection called “Amorae” is the culmination of everything that drives me, centuries of battles for freedom and the love that sparked those desires. It’s more than just a collection; it’s an epic statement of strength, love, and legacy. Drawing from the deep well of my family history and the timeless nature of love’s transformative power, Amorae stands as one of my greatest achievements. It is inspired by past lives, the enduring fight for freedom, and the emotional power of music that has always fueled my creativity. Through this collection, I aim to honor the power of love, freedom, and music that has shaped history across generations. The short presentation film will say it all. Soon to be released.

The first design I created that went into production was a pair of sunglasses. It marked the beginning of my journey into design, and it remains a memorable moment in my career. That first design set the foundation for everything that followed, combining creativity with craftsmanship in a way that still influences my work today.

My favorite... a pen and a sketch pad. It’s where my creative process begins, raw, unfiltered, and direct. There’s something deeply personal about sketching by hand, as it allows me to connect with the idea in its purest form. Technology and digital tools come later to refine and bring the vision to life, but the pen and pad will always be where my designs truly start.

Creativity comes to me in moments of quiet reflection, whether that’s during a walk through the streets of Bayonne, a long ride on my bike, or just listening to music that moves me. It’s when I’m alone, in my own thoughts, that the most powerful ideas come to life. I don’t try to force creativity, it’s about being present, allowing the ideas to unfold naturally.

The emotional concept always comes first. I focus on how the piece will make the wearer feel and what kind of message it will communicate. Once I have that core idea, I start thinking about the details, shapes, textures, materials. Every element of the design serves a purpose. The key is to create something that feels natural and seamless, something that complements the wearer without overwhelming them.

Designing evokes a mix of excitement and calm. There’s a certain thrill in seeing an idea come to life, but there’s a deep sense of satisfaction in knowing that the piece is meaningful. I feel a sense of connection to each design, like it’s a part of me being shared with the world. It’s an emotional process, one that can be as fulfilling as it is challenging.

Fear and pride. Fear, as each design is a leap into the unknown, pushing boundaries and testing limits. There’s always a moment of doubt before the final piece is realized, wondering if it will live up to the vision in my mind. But once the design comes to life, the pride follows. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing something you’ve created resonate with others, knowing that it’s more than just an object, it’s a connection, a story brought to life.

A design is successful when it resonates deeply with the person it’s created for. It’s not just about the aesthetics, it’s about the connection it creates. A successful design must evoke emotion, whether that’s a sense of empowerment, nostalgia, or joy. It should feel natural and effortless, like it was meant to be, creating a harmonious relationship between the product and the wearer. Moreover, it should stand the test of time, not just by being visually striking, but by being meaningful and relevant long after it’s been created. At the end, the success of a design is measured by how it makes people feel.

I consider first how the design will connect to people. A good design isn’t just visually appealing, it has to evoke an emotional response. It needs to resonate with the wearer, to feel personal, and to create a connection that goes beyond the surface. If it achieves that, then it has succeeded.

Sustainability is often marketed as a trend, but in many cases, it’s a false declaration of intention. I refuse to market my creations under the banner of sustainability. Instead, I focus on doing my best at my level to create products that have a genuine, positive impact on people and that do not harm the planet. For me, it’s about being mindful of the choices I make, selecting materials thoughtfully, designing with longevity in mind, and ensuring that the pieces I create truly serve the wearer, rather than contributing to a cycle of disposable consumption. It’s not about jumping on a marketing bandwagon; it’s about creating with intention, responsibility, and respect for the world around us.

The design field is evolving rapidly, especially with the rise of personalization and sustainability. People are no longer just looking for products, they want something that reflects their personality and values. I think the future of design will be about creating pieces that tell a story, that connect on a deeper level. Sustainability will play a huge role as well, as more designers and brands shift toward responsible materials and production processes, sometimes not for the best reason. The future of design will be about honesty, authenticity, individuality, and a deeper connection to the wearer or user.

I have never and will never follow trends. My focus is on creating with my heart, staying true to my beliefs and values. I’m not interested in exhibitions or trade shows. It’s a long journey, but one that I am deeply committed to. For me, the work itself speaks louder than any exhibition or trade show ever could. I create with intention and authenticity, and that’s where my energy lies. This is a path of personal commitment, not one driven by external recognition or fleeting trends.

Inspiration is all around me. It comes from music, from memories, from the world I live in. I find myself constantly reflecting on past experiences, whether it’s a particular song, a place, or a person. These memories fuel my creativity. I find inspiration in art and the beauty of natural materials. For me, the chaos in my brain is a major driver of creativity, there’s always something stirring within me that I can translate into design.

My design style is rooted in authenticity, individuality, and a bit of rebellion. It’s about capturing a feeling or a moment, often inspired by music, personal experiences, or memories. I aim for designs that resonate deeply, evoking a sense of connection rather than just aesthetics. My style is eclectic, it blends rock 'n' roll spirit with refinement, celebrating boldness and elegance at the same time. The main characteristic of my designs is the ability to be both timeless and personal; they are not just accessories, but extensions of the wearer’s identity. Over time, I’ve embraced this style as it feels like a true reflection of my personality, my core values, and my desire to make a statement.

I live in Bayonne, in the northern part of The Basque Country (Iparralde), which is the French side of the Basque Country. It’s a place rich in history and culture, where the fights for freedom have always played a significant role. This region is often called the European California because of its influence on extreme sports like surfing and skateboarding, blending modern lifestyles with a deep historical legacy. This unique mix is a constant source of inspiration for my designs. I’ve traveled the world for decades, seeking inspiration and embracing cultural experiences along the way, but I chose to return to my roots a few years ago. The brand is deeply tied to the heritage of this region, and I need the atmosphere and vibe of Bayonne to fuel my creativity and create collections that feel true to me. Although my company is based in Hong Kong, where I lived for more than a decade, working remotely is no obstacle. In fact, it allows me to stay connected to the vibrant pulse of my homeland while also reaching global markets.

I’m currently focusing only on my own brand and writing a lasting story. My commitment is to my creations and the narrative I’m building. However, when I do work with suppliers, respect and human relationships are at the core. I believe in working with integrity and in partnerships that are built on trust, collaboration, and shared values. It’s about mutual respect and understanding, ensuring that the process is not just transactional but a meaningful exchange.

That’s a deep question. First and foremost, companies should understand that designers are often a different breed. We’re not driven by money or profit, but by passion and talent. I’ve seen too many designers, myself included, who have been used and abused, often not paid for our value, or sometimes not paid at all. When you find a good designer, listen to their vision and understand what they’re trying to communicate. Trust them. Good designers are often 10 steps ahead of the game, having already visualized challenges that businesses and companies may not even see. The key is to understand the designer’s potential, trust their instincts, and allow them the space to innovate.

My approach to design is fluid, intuitive, and deeply personal. I start with a story, an emotion, or a memory that I want to capture and express through the design. From there, I focus on the emotional connection I want the wearer to feel, rather than just visual appeal. Design should be seamless and natural, enhancing the wearer’s experience without overpowering them. I like to push boundaries, to make impossible ideas a reality, but always with a sense of harmony and purpose. It’s about creating pieces that stand the test of time, both in terms of style and meaning.

I have a few cherished items that hold deep personal meaning. First, there are three paintings: one painted together with my mom, one from my dad, and the very first piece by an artist who later became famous. They each tell a story, a connection to my family and to the journey of the artist. There’s a statue at home representing a man in a yogini pose, it's a symbol of balance and strength. And of course, a personal ring, a design that carries with it memories and significance that no other piece could replace.

My day starts early with some sport to energize me. After that, I step into a bit of work before heading out for a ride on my bike. I like to meet a friend for coffee, sharing a moment of connection before retreating to a quiet place where I can seek inspiration and sketch. After some more work, I listen to music, which always helps fuel my creativity, and make sure to give love a significant space in my day. If the weather is favorable, I take my bike again, heading to the ocean to watch the sunset, there’s something about the quiet beauty of that moment that resets everything and prepares for the next day.

I always tell young designers not to design for fame. Design for the soul of the work. Fame will come later, but if you’re not true to yourself, your designs will feel hollow. Trust in your creativity, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Design is a journey of constant learning, so embrace the process. Pay attention to the details, stay true to your voice, and most importantly, be patient.

The positives are countless, the joy of creation, the opportunity to make something meaningful, and the connection you build with others through your work. But it’s not always easy. There’s pressure to keep innovating, to stay relevant, and sometimes it can feel like you’re constantly chasing an idea. But those challenges push you to grow, to evolve, and to create something even better.

My golden rule in design is simple: design for the soul, not for the trends. Design should come from a place of truth, something that speaks to the wearer on a deeper level. If it resonates with them, then it has succeeded. Trends may come and go, but authenticity is timeless.

The most important skills for a designer go beyond technical expertise, they are rooted in creativity, empathy, and the ability to communicate a story through design. A designer needs a deep understanding of aesthetics, form, and functionality, but equally important is the ability to listen, to understand the emotions, needs, and experiences of those who will interact with your work. Flexibility and adaptability are key, as is the capacity to stay true to one’s vision while collaborating with others. Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail are essential for bringing ideas to life in a way that feels both innovative and grounded in reality. Above all, a good designer must be passionate and dedicated to their craft, as it’s the drive to create meaningful, lasting designs that sets the best apart.

A pen and a drawing pad. That’s where everything begins, where the raw ideas take shape. From there, I step into digital tools like Illustrator, Adobe Creative Suite, and Rhino to bring those concepts to life. For videos, I use Final Cut Pro and After Effects to add motion and depth to my vision. But beyond the tools, there’s always something more personal, "On the Road" by Jack Kerouac is always with me. It’s a constant source of inspiration, a reminder to keep moving, exploring, and embracing creativity in its purest form.

I don’t set deadlines for my designs. The process unfolds naturally and at its own pace. Some designs require more time and reflection, and I’m comfortable with that. For me, it’s about allowing the design to evolve until it’s perfect, without the constraints of time. I focus on getting it right, and sometimes that means letting it take as long as needed.

The time it takes to design an object can vary greatly depending on the complexity and the concept. For me, the process isn’t bound by a specific timeline; it’s about finding the right balance and details that resonate. Some designs come together in a matter of weeks, others may take years to perfect. I don’t rush the creative process, it's only finished when it feels right and aligned with my vision.

The most frequent question I get is, "What inspires your designs?" It’s always a pleasure to answer because it allows me to share the emotional connection behind the pieces, the story I’m trying to tell with each design. It’s not just about the aesthetics, it’s about what the design represents and how it connects to something greater.

I don’t rank my work experiences because there are always lessons to be learned. That said, the most important experiences are often the ones where I failed. Those are the moments that taught me the most, sometimes the hard way. Failures push you to grow, adapt, and refine your approach. I’ve come to value those lessons more than any success, as they shape who I am as a designer and as a person.

Currently, I have the privilege of working solely for myself and my art. However, in the past, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with renowned companies, brands, and creatives, gaining invaluable experience along the way. These past projects have shaped my work, but today, my focus is entirely on creating with my own vision and values.

Eyewear and jewelry are the design fields I enjoy most, as they are where my expertise lies. There’s a certain fulfillment in working within my domain, where I can push the boundaries of my craft. I find excitement in challenges, and from time to time, I like stepping outside my comfort zone and designing things I’ve never done before. It’s the thrill of exploring new territories that keeps me inspired.

My focus is on continuing to take pleasure in what I do, staying true to my creative process and values. Over time, I aim to establish my brand as a key player in its field, growing organically and authentically. The journey is just as important as the destination, and I’m committed to building something meaningful that resonates deeply with those who experience it.

I’m the sole creator behind VERGEZ, I collaborate closely with my partner, Evgeny Sukhov, who brings my designs to life. Evgeny is a skilled jeweler and gemologist who takes my sometimes impossible ideas and makes them a reality. He doesn’t interfere with the creative process, but his technical expertise allows me to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

I have quite a few works in progress, but the Amorae collection is currently my main focus. It’s a deeply personal project, inspired by themes of freedom, love, and history. This collection is taking shape with every passing day, and I’m excited to see how it evolves.

via email: info@vergez.art or through social media, Instagram being quite an interesting place.

I’d like to say that design is not just about creating beautiful objects; it’s about creating meaningful experiences. Every piece I design has a story, and every story has a purpose. What drives me is the idea of creating something that connects, something that is more than just a product, it’s a piece of personal expression, a connection to the wearer’s own memories, emotions, and desires. That’s what I believe makes good design great.

30 years in the design field, Eyewear and Jewelry. I’ve been creating under the name VERGEZ for several years now, following a path that blends storytelling, emotion, and form. I come from a multidisciplinary background and have had the privilege to collaborate with master craftsmen, including my partner Evgeny Sukhov, a jeweler and gemologist. Together, we've brought to life pieces that are as much about identity and memory as they are about technique.

It wasn’t a straight line. I’ve always carried a need to express myself, through words, shapes, and symbols. Design became the language that tied all of these together. I started sketching pieces that told stories, often inspired by music, love, and travel. Over time, I realized that what I was doing wasn’t just decoration; it was the preservation of feeling, rebellion, and truth. The real turning point in my career came when I lost my hearing. It’s crucial to mention because it marked the beginning of a profound shift in my creative process. Losing my hearing altered the way I interacted with the world, and my other senses intensified. This change in perception became the foundation of my designs. It forced me to reconnect with my work in new ways, giving me a deeper understanding of emotion, form, and connection. From that moment on, my work evolved, fueled by a more intimate sense of what it means to experience and create.

Emotion first. Always. Then clarity, then contrast. I sketch by hand, using a pen and pad, and once the essence is clear, I move into Illustrator and Rhino for digital refinement. I don’t chase perfection, I chase resonance. I want the piece to vibrate with its own energy.

There’s a kind of obsession at first, the need to get it out. Then comes a quieter joy, a sense of sculpting something eternal. My favorite part is the translation: when an inner impulse becomes an external form. That’s where the magic lives.

I’ve always loved words, rhythm, and solitude. Those things shaped me as much as any formal skill. I think empathy, patience, and curiosity are as important as design software. Also, living in places like Bayonne, Hong Kong, and California gave me contrasting energies to draw from.

My next collection, AMORAE, is my most complete to date, born from centuries of passed lives, battles, and loves. Looking forward, I want to create fewer pieces, but with greater depth and purpose, and continue connecting them to causes, like the One Gaia Foundation. My dream? Designing something that one day ends up in a museum, not for its beauty, but for its story.

Stay curious. Don’t fake rebellion, live it, if it’s in you. Don’t chase trends. Be okay with silence, with slow progress. Protect your instincts, and never underestimate the power of knowing what not to do.

Design with conviction. Make things that matter. Take time to walk alone, think, observe. The biggest mistake I see is designing for approval. That’s not art, it’s noise. Stay focused, stay honest.

Sports, motorcycle ride, spending time with my loved one, virtually or in real life. Pen on paper before screen. Then I review ongoing pieces, either alone or with Evgeny. I don’t follow a rigid schedule. The rhythm is intuitive, but always anchored in creating, refining, and remembering why we do this.

I don’t follow trends. I pay attention to what moves people, but my work is driven by personal narratives and timeless symbols. If a trend happens to align with that, fine, but it’s never the starting point.

Good design feels inevitable, like it always existed, and we just revealed it. It speaks without shouting. It leaves room for the wearer, user, or viewer to complete the story. It has presence and silence at once.

When the piece says what it needs to say, no more, no less. I usually feel it physically. There’s a stillness in the process when the design is complete. But yes, I do revisit past works and evolve them when they call me back.

The Roaring Lion Choker is one of my most significant pieces. It carries layers, personal, political, spiritual. It was made for Qymira, but it speaks to anyone who’s had to fight quietly, protect fiercely, or carry their voice with pride.

I admire designers who break rules with grace, like Alexander McQueen, for his emotional violence and beauty. I also respect architects like Tadao Ando, who understand silence as form. And if I could have spoken to one designer from the past, perhaps René Lalique, for how he merged light, emotion, and nature.

I live between places, Bayonne grounds me, Hong Kong sharpens me, and music runs through everything. I always carry On the Road by Kerouac. I believe good design stems from a good life, honest, soulful, free. Culture is not a backdrop. It’s the pulse behind the form.

Our business philosophy is built on trust, mutual respect, and a refusal to compromise on intention. I only collaborate with people who care, deeply. It’s not about speed or trends. It’s about truth, craftsmanship, and legacy.

We support One Gaia Foundation, founded by Qymira to help children in need, and The House of affection, an orphanage in vietnam. We give a percentage of each sales to these two organizations. My goal is to continue creating meaningful pieces that serve a greater purpose, and to make sure design always remains connected to compassion.

The A’ Design Award gave the Roaring Lion Choker visibility beyond what I imagined, and connected our mission with a wider audience. Three key benefits: recognition by a respected international community, connection with other driven creators, and a reminder that great design can, and should stand for something.

I studied mathematics and physics at the University of Bordeaux, but always kept one foot in the arts. I took side courses in photography and design at the School of Arts of Bordeaux, at a time photography was argentic and design softwares were not invented yet... That’s where logic and emotion started to merge for me. Design became my language for both.

I design to capture the things we can’t say easily, love, loss, memory, rebellion. Design gives shape to what haunts or inspires us. That’s what keeps me going.

It chose me. I never really made a career plan, I just followed the instinct to create. Design was the vessel that could hold the fire.

I design jewelry, mostly, sculptural, emotional, unapologetic. I’d love to explore furniture or sacred objects next, anything with a soul.

Don’t try to be a legend. Try to be honest. Try to be necessary. That’s the only thing that lasts.

A good designer masters form. A great designer masters silence, they know when to stop, and when to let a piece speak on its own.

When it feels inevitable, like it couldn’t have been done any other way. Good design doesn’t beg for attention. It carries gravity.

Because we become what we surround ourselves with. Good design elevates our thoughts, our habits, and our sense of self.

I’d love to design for someone who’s lost their voice, a piece that helps them reclaim it. Not just jewelry, something protective, symbolic.

Memory. I design from moments I can’t forget, or from ones I wish had lasted longer.

Alexander McQueen. Tadao Ando. René Lalique. And musicians, they’re designers of emotion.

Anything that holds paradox, power and fragility, minimalism and excess, stillness and movement.

I believe my greatest design, not yet released, is the Amorae ring. It’s deeply personal, bridging past lives and future hopes. It’s not just a jewel; it’s an intemporal symbol of love and freedom. It carries echoes of battles fought, bonds unbroken, and a longing that transcends time. I designed it to endure, not just physically, but emotionally. I believe it will stand as a testament to everything I’ve tried to express as a designer.

Protect your solitude. Sketch a lot. Travel. Listen. And read, especially outside of design.

Probably a writer or filmmaker. Something where narrative and rhythm still matter.

Qymira, her belief and presence shaped everything. And Evgeny who turns my wildest designs into reality.