Nadine Mustafa Through the intricate web of design, art, and enterprise, Maha Al Sagheer becomes a beacon in the fashion industry, where creativity and culture converge. Since she founded Maha Al Sagheer Designs, her bags—which reflect the rich diversity of her upbringing—have come to be associated with vivid identity. Maha depicts a woman whose inventiveness has no boundaries, venturing outside the world of fashion and into the fields of abstract art, television, and filmmaking.
In conversation with Maha Al Sagheer, her words resonate as a testament to the harmonious fusion of art, culture, and business. Each bag she crafts tells a story, each design a brushstroke on the canvas of her remarkable journey. In weaving wonders, Maha invites us to explore the boundless possibilities where creativity knows no limits.
How did Maha Al Sagheer Designs come about?
Reflecting on it now, I envisioned creating a bridge between art and functionality. Initially, I contemplated jewelry design but hesitated, not wanting to follow the mainstream. I settled on leather crafting, aiming to meet the contemporary needs of women. The idea was to craft unique, beautiful leather bags that spoke of individuality, creativity, and art. It took time to perfect the concept, especially in ensuring lightweight yet high-quality materials.
How do you draw inspiration from your background in abstract art and movie-making to create such unique pieces?
Before each collection, I draw inspiration from art, cinema, or music. For instance, rock bands like QUEEN and ACDC influenced a collection, infusing edginess with softness. One particular collection, named Rock and Roll, was embroidered on leather, showcasing sustainability through up-cycling old clothes.
Can you walk us through your design process?
It all begins with an idea, drawing inspiration from my surroundings. I create mood boards with fabrics, colors, images, and textures. Envisioning leads to detailed specifications – size, shape, color, zips – all crucial elements reflecting the best in quality.
Your bags are not just accessories; they seem to tell a story. Can you share the narrative behind one of your favorite designs?
Each collection carries a story. After taking a design course at Azza Fahmy School, I experimented with leather skirts and belts alongside bags. This expanded my horizon on design and functionality, a significant turning point in my creative journey.
Transitioning from “Showtime” to “El Settat Maye’rafoush Yekdebo” seems like a dynamic shift. How did you balance your roles as a television presenter and a fashion designer?
It was a challenging transition that momentarily shifted my focus from designing. Now that I am back to it, my focus is on incorporating more leather-related products merged with various materials and paintings.
As the Vice Chairman of Al Sagheer Group, how do you approach the intersection of creativity and entrepreneurship in the fashion industry?
Having previously led the creative department while working with my father, I understood the importance of having our product line. It involved extensive testing and collaboration with hairdressers to understand the best in terms of color, vitamins, and treatments. Fashion and beauty are intertwined, requiring a professional approach.
What advice do you have for aspiring designers aiming to merge artistic vision with business success, as you have done with Maha Al Sagheer Designs?
I find joy in collaborating on projects with designers and brands. Seeing emerging artists reach out inspires me to keep doing what I do best, aiming to inspire others. The inclusivity of craft is incredible; it just requires dedication.
Collaborating with Azza Fahmy is a significant venture. How did this collaboration come about, and what aspects of Azza’s jewelry designs resonate with your vision for Maha Al Sagheer Designs?
It’s a dream coming true, to say the least. I took her course at the design studio back then, and I was thrilled that my designs caught her attention and liking, chosen among the winning designs. She saw my vision from afar, assuring me I was on the right track. Beyond working under her leadership, Azza Fahmy is a personal mentor to me, someone I look up to in almost everything she does. Collaborating with her is a step in establishing a prolonged identity. We are still in the research stage, but this upcoming project is something I look forward to sharing with everyone.
This collaboration seems like a fusion of two creative powerhouses. What challenges did you face in the collaborative process, and how have these moments shaped the final collection?
Establishing the business structure and foundation I had in mind took time. The brand’s artistic side benefited from my experience, while the business aspect is strengthening gradually. The vision for Maha Al Sagheer Designs transcends the local market, aligning with Azza Fahmy’s ambition to go big and broad. The fast pace we’ve adapted is challenging, yet I’m eager to learn more about the craft from the mastermind herself. Having Azza Fahmy’s name associated with the project is an incredible honor.
Looking ahead, what exciting projects or collaborations can we expect from Maha Al Sagheer in 2024?
A lot is in store for the brand. We are working with the right minds to establish a more rooted, business-oriented approach on every level. In terms of media, which I love, I aim to create a balance and reach a medium where I can excel in both media and design. It’s an achievable goal with the right mindset and dedication.
