Sustainable Streetwear - The Shahini Fakhourie Interview
Breaking onto the British scene in style, Miami based designer, Shahini Fakhourie, has already tempted us to part with our cash by releasing the first half for her second collection in March, 2022. Offering grunge-cool, luxury minimalist garments made from materials including recycled plastic bottles, Shahini lets us delve deeper into her world.
When and where did you begin?
I started informally in Miami 2014, right after I’d gotten back from living in NYC. I hosted a solo exhibition and knew that this was what I’d be ultimately doing so I formally formed the brand in 2017 and have increased the brand’s offerings ever since.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
The inspiration starts with an idea that interests me and grows from there. I have had inspiration from ideas in tech that I wanted to realize with tactile objects and what that would mean applied in real life. I typically find inspiration in the ideas of femininity and social movements that I can process through design.
Describe your brand in 3 words.
Quality, sustainable, timeless
What is the most difficult aspect of running your own label?
The most difficult aspect is the juggling of all the hats as an entrepreneur. I constantly make lists, trying to ensure nothing falls to the wayside but I think my final failsafe are the interns who send me reminders like, “Hey, don’t forget to finish this!” They’re amazing.
Which part of the creative process do you enjoy most, and least?
I love so much of the creative process, I guess my favorite would have to be the initial sketches where I’m fleshing out the inspiration and concepts into designs.
I’d have to say, the part I like the least, is probably the editing process, I still struggle! And then when the technical designer gets the pattern, there’s even more editing and it’s hard for me to let go of some details but I always end up loving the end product.
Check out Shahini's Instagram here
Do you have a mentor?
Yes, thankfully I do. Lola Sanchez is such an awesome mentor to me. I have realized the importance of mentors in your life and I’ve been blessed with having a mentor in every stage of my career, the women I’ve worked with have always been a support.
How long did your latest collection take to create?
Each collection takes about 6 months to complete, although it has been a bit harder during the pandemic.
What are your future plans?
I would like to grow the company in more ways than one, through personnel and styles offered. We are also exploring exhibition options for the brand to increase brand recognition.
Which pieces do you think everyone should have in their wardrobe?
The cape is such a statement and the turtleneck is a staple. There are some items in the next collection that will really knock your socks off.
What attracted you to The Clothing Lounge?
Our values are in alignment. And that is the most important thing to me in partnerships for the brand.
Shop Shahini Fakhourie now
