EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH EYGPTIAN JEWELLERY DESIGNER , AZZA FAHMY
Oct 29, 2014
3 min read
HERE'S OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH THE TALENTED EYGPTIAN JEWELLERY DESIGNER, AZZA FAHMY. GET TO SEE HER LATEST COLLECTION AVAILABLE IN TOP LUXURY DEPARTMENT STORES WORLDWIDE, PLUS WHAT DRIVES HER PASSION FOR JEWELLERY MAKING AND IMPORTANT TIPS ON HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR BEST LITTLE FASHION DELICATES!
What inspired you to go into jewelry design?
It all started when I came across an art book about classical jewellery of the Middle Ages in Europe. The book was in German and cost 17.5 EGP - a fortune at the time- but neither language nor price barriers stopped me from buying it. I was fascinated with the designs of the jewellery, and I can definitely assert that this book was the light that triggered the beginning of my long career.
What has been your design process for Azza Fahmy Jewellery?
Once the inspiration hits, there is a thorough research process before sketching the first idea. Inspiration without education can be tricky, and I really do value accuracy in my jewellery. We go through plenty of books referencing the art and history of each piece. We research the designs that could interpret the idea in a wearable form without disregarding it’s authenticity. This is an incredibly important phase in the design process, after which we begin to sketch and this may take months before final production. In order to really understand the intricacy of each piece, it’s always better to see up-close at our workshop. The stages are many.
Recently there was Azza Fahmy for Mathew Wiliamson collection, a collaboration which lasted for 2 seasons and was displayed at London Fashion Week. Tell us how you felt, achieving this particular project?
It is part of the brand strategy to collaborate with other international names in the industry. It’s a means to exchange ideas, techniques and research other markets. We’ve done similar collaborations with Julien McDonald and Preen for example and these relationships helped add to our brand knowledge and enforced our growth.
Were there any major influences or specific inspirations for the designs featured in this new collection (featured right)?
Working for two seasons with Matthew Wiliamson, the inspirations varied each time. In the first collection (s/s 14) the pieces we designed are inspired by botanical prints and architectural forms and textures. We wanted to capture Matthew Williamson’s trademark sensibility towards nature and print while still displaying our cultural design view and techniques.
In the second collection (A/W14 )we reinterpreted the star motif prevalent in this season’s runway collection which we thought would complement Matthew’s use of patterns, textures and rich colour palette. The A/W 14reflects the high-glamour and exuberant spirit of the collection.
What has been the most challenging thing about jewelry design and what has been the most difficult?
Jewellery design is a challenging craft which requires a lot of patience, understanding, education, inspiration and most importantly innovation. The difficulties may be plenty, however with experience and thorough research, the idea in your head can be translated beautifully. Everything I do, I do with love and that facilitates a big part of the journey.
When shopping for a jewellery peice, do you have any jewellery styling tips to share, that will make our selection unqiue and personal?
My tip is always to find a piece that you can relate to. If the piece fits with your personality it will be the best stand-out item you’ve ever worn. It will have a story to tell, perhaps even help a conversation begin.
Travel is major, especially during summer agenda. Share some tips for packing your jewelry. How should one travel with it?
The most important thing is to pack your jewellery with love; until today a piece of jewellery remains a sentimental item that people wear to identify their history, inclinations, desires, stories or even fashion statements. I recommend a scrollable jewellery pouch as it’s easy to carry around and can help keep your chains and rings organized without taking up too much space.
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