Nadine Mustafa Siko Apparel is a fashion brand making waves in the industry with its unique designs and creative flair. Created by the talented designer Nahed El Nebei, Siko Apparel is all about pushing boundaries, breaking the mold, and creating beautiful and meaningful fashion. In this interview, we’ll be taking a closer look at the creative process and inspiration behind every piece of the brand. From the initial spark of an idea to the finished product, Siko will walk us through her passion for fashion and how it informs her work. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply curious about the world of design, this piece will surely provide a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of the industry’s rising stars.
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Please share with us a bit about yourself.
I am Nahed El Nebei; however, I go by “Siko.” I majored in English literature and minored in art at the AUC. Fortunately, great professors introduced me to many unconventional ideas and made me rethink and experiment with traditional concepts. The art scene back then was quite avant-garde; the frenzy of buying art was not there; it was experiencing art, giving the artist freedom from the decorative realm. I remember solid light and video installations and unbelievable pieces exhibited during the Cairo Biennale by Egyptian and international artists, and the concept of price tag did not exist.
What inspired you to become a fashion designer?
Design and creativity are part of my DNA. I grew up with amazing women who cooked, painted, studied, and hosted unforgettable gatherings. We always had a dressmaker at home, and designing clothes was something that we enjoyed doing together. We constantly repurposed and upcycled our clothes. Buying textiles and going to unique shops have always been an essential part of our travels that I have always looked forward to. Fashion magazines and classic Hollywood movies with their extravagant scenes were references. So this gave me the guts to create and design, as it had been second nature during my upbringing.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
I find inspiration in plenty of things. Architecture, beautiful interior, jewelry but mainly elegant women. Women that you encounter during travel who have unforgettable tastes. I love people who effortlessly curate themselves and find dressing up a form of art.
How would you describe Siko apparel?
Siko Apparel woman is a woman who wants to stand out elegantly in a crowd. Never mainstream, a woman who likes to have timeless pieces that she gets complimented on every single time she wears. Very hard to impress, blazé loves possessing valuable things and loves to party.
What is your creative process of design?
The process of design for me looks similar to composing a sonata. It starts with a sentimental feeling I want to convey. Then it narrows down to choosing the elements that, when combined in a particular array, will create an outstanding look. But, to reach such a harmonious look, it’s a very zealous mental process with a lot of experimentation. I always try to be creative and different from other collections, yet I want to maintain a signature. But the joy I get during the process is unbelievable; I can stay for hours and completely lose track of time. Every single piece I do by hand, I pin it myself. I like to pay attention to every detail when it comes to any design; it sets my brand apart from the rest.
The question I always ask myself during the design process is, “Would I buy this piece?”. The process becomes so much fun as I create a piece that is so compelling that I can’t resist. That’s why I’m attached to every detail. However, this formula proved to be a commercial success, and I always advise young designers to design what they love rather than what’s selling or trending.
What advice would you give to people who aspire to become fashion designers?
I advise aspiring designers to start small; the most important thing is to begin at some point. I started from home in my kids’ playroom with my grandmother’s sewing machine. I used to make the most beautiful t-shirts and shirts carried alongside international designers like Vivian Westwood, and they were a smash and sold out instantly. You must thoroughly think about each piece and make every piece represent you. And you have to have an eye on a consumer and ask yourself if you would buy it. If the answer is yes on every piece, you are on the right track.
What advice would you give to people who aspire to become fashion designers? Fashion icons?
Fashion icons are diverse; however, they are all strong women who find pleasure and self-expression in fashion, like Sherihan, Lady Simpson, Queen Rania, Sheikha Mouza, Jessica Chastain, and Sarah Jessica Parker.
Which fashion trends do you like least?
My least favorite fashion thing is anything trendy due to its price tag rather than its beauty. The obsession with monetary value to prove something is a very vulgar concept that I find repulsive and defies elegance.
