by Leonore Dicker
 
Born and raised in Lebanon –founder and creative director of Sarah’s Bag– Sarah Beydoun has always wanted to make a difference. After studying sociology and working for an NGO, Sarah founded her quirky accessory label in 2000, designed by herself and crafted by women in prison.
 
Leonore Dicker sat down with her in her colorful Beirut-based boutique to discuss both her inspirations and aspirations.
 
Where did you get the idea to hire women in Lebanese prisons to make your bags?
I did my thesis on prostitution and women in prison, and worked for 6 months for an NGO that supports women in need. I realized that to help women get out of prison (or prostitution) they should be given an opportunity, so in 2000 I did just that.

“Sarah’s Bag” is very supportive of women.Which woman do you admire most?
I love that our pieces are produced by women in need, for women who have everything. I enjoy this touch of schizophrenia in my work. I’m personally most inspired by my mother – it might sound like a cliché but in my case it’s true!

What’s great about your designs is that they never stray too far from home. Where do you find your inspiration?
When I started designing, I focused a lot on the Lebanese and Arab culture. At that time (14 years ago) our culture wasn’t very present in fashion and there was a demand for contemporary and fashionable items that had Arab roots. With time, we slowly moved away from the Arab culture and nowadays find inspiration in everything! But if it’s not in the actual design of the bag, our culture is still very present in the designing process and handcraft!

Your summer line makes us feel like we’re on a tropical island. Were you inspired by a recent trip?
Seeing as our last season had been very hectic and stressful, the line wasn’t actually inspired by a trip, but rather a yearning to go on a trip!

Your fall ’14 collection includes clutches with old images of Lebanon and toy cars as clasps. Where did you get this idea? 
We got inspired by Imad Kozem’s work –who gathered pictures of vintage cars in his “Pure Nostalgia” book– and decided to feature it on clutches, together with illustrations from the comic series “Michelle Vaillant” for a pop art meets vintage result!

Pop Art seems to be very present in your designs, who is your favorite artist?
I’ve always loved the colors and boldness of Pop Art! I especially admire Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol. I also love Chant Avedissian who’s done a lot of Pop Art work on Arab artists.

What is your favorite piece of your most recent collection?
The impossible question…!  Funnily enough, the piece I prefer is often the one I am working on, as I love trying to exceed myself. If I’d have to choose one though, it’d be “The Kiss” (an embroidery of two people kissing on a Plexiglas clutch).

Any future plans to design clothes?
I’ve actually started a line of kaftans and I’m working on a special Abaya collection for Ramadan.

Are bags your favorite accessory?
Yes – A bag can make all the difference in a woman’s look!  

What items do you always carry in your own handbag?
I always carry pieces of fabric and a notebook to write down thoughts and ideas. I’m also into wearing flowers in my hair lately, so I’ve got some in my bag – other than that, there’s a “Sarah’s Bag” pouch and the usual keys, wallet and phone! 

Where can we find you this summer?
I love the beach! I’m going on a 1-week cruise around Croatia and then to the FarayaMountain in Lebanon for an exhibition. After that the roller coaster starts again!
 
Check out www.shop.sarahsbag.com to purchase some items online