What’s the story behind your creative journey? Tell us how you got started, and what moment made you realize this was your calling?
I’ve always dreamed of having my own fashion line, since I was a kid. As I grew and my love for Islam grew I knew I wanted to create something for Muslim women. I turned my life long dream from being a fashion designer into being a Muslim fashion designer for modest clothing.
How does your cultural or faith background influence your work? We’d love to hear about the unique perspective you bring to your art.
There’s a lack of modest clothing in this world, especially pieces that stand out. It’s easy to find basic pieces but we really lacked pieces that had bold details and statement looks. Everything I do, I do with modesty, ethical and moral values in sight. The pieces I create and curate come from manufacturers that are also Muslim owned and ethically created.
What’s a project you’re especially proud of, and what made it meaningful to you? Walk us through the creative process and why it holds a special place in your heart.
My first collection, The Resistance Collection, I started designing these pieces before I got pregnant and as the collection started to come together, I got pregnant with my first and my second. Within 4 years I had two babies and a brand. Definitely owned up to its name, The Resistance Collection. I didn’t give up and I worked even harder to show my kids what a woman is capable of doing when she puts her mind to it.
If you could collaborate with any artist (living or historical) from the Muslim or ethnic diaspora, who would it be and why?
I would work with Zaha Hadid, an Iraqi architect. I love the mix of bold architecture with fashion. It makes the pieces stand out so differently. Her architecture is so eye catching and bold, just like my pieces. I can imagine my Zeena, a fringe leather skirt being modeled in front of the Vitra Fire station in Germany.
What’s one misconception about your art form or your community that you’d like to challenge? What do you wish more people understood?
My pieces aren’t made for everyone and that’s okay! I’m not designing for everyone, and I’m completely knowing that my pieces don’t appeal to every woman.
How can our community support your work and stay connected with you?
Our Pop Ups! We have an upcoming Pop up at Firewheel Mall in Garland. May 23 & 24.
425 Coneflower Dr. Garland TX
Shopkanzee.com
@kanzee_official
