Attire Accessories - Feb/Mar 2019 (Issue 74)

PROFILE 97 Learning curve Designer Basma Alshather hasn’t let her unfamiliarity with the fashion world stop her from creating a distinctive and quality brand in Basma Design Tell me a bit about how the label was started. What was the inspiration? I remember the exact moment when I made the decision to launch my business. I was in a printmaking workshop, blending colours and creating designs, when I found myself continually visualising the artwork printed on to textiles. You could call it an epiphany, but it was just a moment of realising the vehicle through which I could communicate my art and express these ideas tangibly. Initially, I was thinking of designing for interiors and furnishings, such as cushions and rugs, since these seemed a natural step from my previous work in ceramics. I trained in art and design, specialising in architectural ceramics, so being in a printmaking workshop and exploring different art techniques is the norm for me. After speaking to a number of people, I came to the conclusion that a silk scarf was the perfect medium for translating this concept into wearable art. It’s an easy-to-wear, one-size accessory, and the luxury quality can add chic style to any outfit at any time. My own love for wearing and collecting silk scarves also won me over. My personal love for textile art and architecture informs each design and makes Basma Design a labour of love for me. How were the initial products developed, and what was the response? From day one, the response to my process has been one of tremendous respect, which I value enormously as an artist. The design process is very transparent and starts with hand-drawn sketches and concepts. I then prepare the Lino block. I use the monoprint technique, which means each print is unique. I then print the artwork on paper. The final print that I am happy with is then digitised on to silk chiffon, a fabric chosen for its sheer weightlessness and the ability to retain the texture upon printing. Finally, after being cut into squares, the contrasting edges are traditionally hand-rolled for that signature handwriting that marks out mass production from artisan luxury. I have had nothing but admiration and respect for my attention to detail and uncompromising standards, which is enormously gratifying when faced with the obvious challenges of launching a luxury start-up.