IN CONVERSATION WITH TOM EEREBOUT, WITH CARTIER

Harmony in Three, with CARTIER

interview by DIAMONIQUE OSEANA

Three enchanting ambassadors have been selected to celebrate the centenary of CARTIER’S Trinity collection. Tom Eerebout, a maestro in style, himself embodies the audacious spirit of the Trinity Rings. Metasebia Plantefève-Castryck, a ballet dancer, evokes the ethereal grace that characterises every delicate facet. And Esmay Wagemans, a sculptor of dreams, reflects the visionary artistry that creates the timeless allure of the Trinity Rings.

Can you share with us about your background and what led you to work in the fashion industry?

Since a young age, I was interested in fashion and costume design. For me, it was a way to tell stories and the way I dressed transported me to another reality, an imaginary escape.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

I have so many that for me are personal highlights, but that is more on how the job shaped along the process, not because of the reactions by other people on it. 

You have an impressive amount of experience as a stylist working on red carpets, editorials, campaigns, etc., and with incredible celebrities, including Lady Gaga, Kylie Minogue, Rita Ora, and Rebecca Ferguson. Do you have any memorable experiences from your career that have shaped your approach to styling?

I learned a lot from the people I worked with when I was still assisting, but a pivotal moment that in my eyes shaped me the most was when I was talking with Alister Mackie and he told me to do what I do and not compare myself to other people in the industry. He said I needed to follow my gut and not do what people expect from me. That really changed the way I approach projects.

What are some of your favourite fashion trends or designers at the moment?

I try to not really look at trends, I always find that a hard question when people ask me that because it is not the way I work when starting a job. It needs to be right in the moment and for the client and for the story we are trying to tell. Designer wise I joined the jury of the International Talent Support (ITS) contest in Trieste this year where we got to go through hundreds of portfolios of graduates in fashion and accessory design. That was such an intense but inspiring process and ignited the feeling and rush of why I love fashion again.

What role and significance do you believe jewellery plays in completing a look?

Very important, but also the hardest part as personally I wear a lot of jewellery in daily life, it is such an intimate thing and gives that extra touch to a look. So it is important that, for example, when I do celebrity dressing it fits with that talent’s style, to give the impression it is a second skin of them and something they always wear.

As Cartier celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Trinity Collection, in your opinion, how does the collection reflect the evolution of style and taste in contemporary fashion?

The Trinity collection is something that has been a staple that is timeless and modern. I think the intricate design while having a clean, easy look is what makes its appeal so mysterious and magical. Personally, I play a lot with my jewellery, especially when I am nervous, it’s kind of a tic to wriggle with my rings, the Trinity ring is the perfect ring for that as you can not stop fidgeting with it and it always goes back to one unity.

Could you share some insights into how you feel being an ambassador for the Cartier Trinity Collection?

Very honoured, I am a big jewellery fan and to be chosen to be an ambassador for such an iconic, legendary collection for its century-long existence is magical and surreal.

What advice would you give to aspiring stylists looking to enter the industry?

Work, experience, watch and learn, assist, and see how different people work, it is the best way.

How do you maintain a work-life balance amidst the demands of your profession?

I travel a lot, I work a lot. But when I go home I know I am going to a safe space. I know my husband and our 3 dogs are waiting for me. We have a lot of friends staying at ours all the time, which gives that perfect family feeling, they always ground me and show me what is important. I am very blessed to have that. Also, I work with many of my friends so that makes it personal and home as well even when I am away from home for months. 

Looking ahead, are there any personal or professional goals you hope to achieve in the future?

To keep growing, do more things, and get inspired, I work as a freelancer so I never know what the future brings but I am excited for the unknown. I believe the universe is guiding me in this life and that the best way is to just embrace that with gratitude. 

TEAM CREDITS:
talents TOM EEREBOUT, METASEBIA PLANTEFÈVE-CASTRYCK, & ESMAY WAGEMANS
photographer DANIEL SARS
stylist VINCENT VANLAEKEN
editor TIMOTEJ LETONJA
producer MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
make-up artist ANH NGUYAEN
hair Stylist XIU YUN YU
photograph assistant TIMOTHY HOENSON
stylist assistants LINDA SCHREITER & DIAMONIQUE OSEANA