UAE-born Nadya Hasan has long cherished the fashion world, hence debuting her career as a fashion blogger. Gaining worldwide fame, the young woman was substantially driven by her thirst for fashion, which eventually made her one of the greatest influencers, bloggers and of course, fashionistas. After taking over the fashion blog scene with her personal blog, “The Fierce Diaries”, she has now added “designer” to her long list of talents, with her first-beautifully crafted- shoe collection.
Could you tell the readers more about yourself? How did this amazing story kick-off?
I started off my career in fashion as a personal style and travel blogger. It's something that I have been doing for the past 5 years, but I always wanted to do more. I always knew I wanted to be in fashion ever since I was a little girl. And as many people know, I have an obsession with shoes. But I always struggled to find the right pair of flats, or shoes in a particular color. So, just like that about 2 years ago I thought why not? I researched and traveled to find the right factories and suppliers to make my vision come true.
When did you realize you wanted to become a designer?
I guess it started with my simple shoe obsession. I always had a creative streak and this was not in my future plans. It just happened and I guess that's why I'm passionate and determined to make it work.
How did you come up with the idea of starting a new shoe collection?
I always knew that blogging wouldn't be forever and I always want to be in the fashion industry. So from that simple reason (not finding the flats I want) it simply became something that I had to try out and see where it takes me.
Are there any designers who inspire you?
Many designers inspire me! You have amazing designers out there who would be so hard to compete with on an international level!
What’s the story behind your collection? What does it represent?
I think a lot of people were actually shocked at the fact that I mostly stuck to creating flats and not much of heels. There are so many flats out there that are either too simple and or not very comfortable. With that in mind, I wanted to create something sexy and feminine but at the same time I want the women to feel like they can travel back into the 1920s when they put them on.
Who is the woman wearing your designs?
The Nadya Hasan woman is one who isn't afraid to be simple, elegant and adventurous. She is classy and timeless.
Did you find it hard to manage both aspects of the fashion scene, being a blogger and a designer?
Oh definitely! I now understand the pain of a designer and their passion for their work. It's a whole different ball game coming from someone who is a consumer to becoming someone who creates for that consumer. As a designer, I need to be loyal to my own brand. But being a blogger at the same time, it's hard when you are also supporting other brands.
What’s next for your brand?
For now I'm working hard on getting the current collection online on the online store (www.nadyahasan.com) and making sure everything runs smoothly and I can't wait to show the next collection, as I think this will be something very different! Stay tuned for updates on Instagram (@nadyahasanofficial).
Cindy Menassa
