Amidst the diverse and dynamic entrepreneurial scene in Bangladesh, Faria Mehmood shines brightly as a trailblazer of originality and ingenuity. Through her brainchild, Mukta, she has carved out a distinctive space that goes beyond the usual confines of the fashion industry. More than just a label, Mukta serves as a platform for Faria’s deep passion for art and narrative, blending elements of heritage, customs, and contemporary influences. In an intimate conversation with TINDS, Faria delved into her journey of establishing a flourishing brand and the inspiration driving her forward.
TINDS: Tell us a little about your childhood. Where were you born and where’d you grow up?
Faria: I was born and brought up in Dhaka. I have always been around the Dhanmondi area where I have memories of growing up with my school being in walking distance from my home and it was a beautiful chapter of my life with the most wonderful friends and a supportive school. My family undoubtedly has been my biggest support system throughout and they played a huge role in who I am today and they have been my biggest cheerleader as well as my critique.
TINDS: Could you tell us a little about your educational background?
Faria: My journey began in Brighton, UK, where I pursued my architecture degree and discovered a passion for storytelling and conceptual designs. Initially intending to return home after a few years, I found myself drawn to stay permanently. Engaging in various projects over time, a pivotal moment arose during a conversation with my mother when she posed the question: What do you envision for your future? This inquiry sparked introspection and propelled me into deeper contemplation about my path ahead.
TINDS: What three words describe you the best?
Faria: Artistic, Passionate and Resilient.
TINDS: Tell us a little about your brand MUKTA?
Faria: MUKTA is more than just a fashion label; it’s my personal creative endeavor, a vessel for sharing my stories through the art of craftsmanship. Growing up with a deep love for art and storytelling, I sought a platform to express my passions, which led to the inception of MUKTA. In a country known for its prowess in garment manufacturing, the fashion industry is often associated solely with mass production at low costs. However, I envisioned a homegrown brand that prioritizes mastering artisanal skills to deliver unparalleled quality. My goal was to craft products with exquisite detail and premium materials that could stand proudly in any corner of the globe.
TINDS: How did you come up with the name of your brand?
Faria: The Bengali word MUKTA, meaning pearl, holds a special significance as it is also my mother’s name. Symbolizing ultimate elegance, I envisioned a future where this word would represent the powerful storytelling and inner grace of women worldwide. My mother, my greatest supporter and guide in life, introduced me to this world. When choosing a name for our brand, I couldn’t think of a more fitting choice than that of my mother. Imagining myself on an international red carpet, adorned in our creations, I wanted people to see the beauty and depth behind this Bengali word that resonates with all who encounter it.
TINDS: Would you say your education in architecture influenced you in becoming a fashion designer?
Faria: Honestly, Architects truly sparked my creativity and inspired me to embrace certain ideals. They taught me the importance of authentic conceptual design, craftsmanship, and attention to detail in any creative endeavor. Through my training, I discovered that the joy lies in the process of creation rather than just the end result. This newfound perspective heavily influenced my work in architecture and continues to shape my own brand and collection. While initially conceived as a fashion brand, I aspire to broaden its horizons in the future.
TINDS: Which fashion genre do you think is the most appealing nowadays?
Faria: I’ve never been particularly fixated on a single genre. For me, what truly matters is the designer’s skill in storytelling and their ability to bring concepts to life. Personally, I am artistically inclined towards feminine and romantic art and designs – that’s more my style.
TINDS: Tell us a little about your experience as the founder of MUKTA?
Faria: Our plans for launching were disrupted by the onset of COVID, causing a global standstill. Despite the challenges posed by external circumstances, MUKTA has been well received by individuals who appreciate our focus on femininity. We aim to fill a gap in the market by celebrating and promoting femininity through our brand, which stands out from the commercialism prevalent in the fashion industry. My goal is to make a positive impact on design culture by moving away from solely profit-driven approaches and instead emphasizing individuality and unique identity in my work.
TINDS: What according to you are the difficulties of being in the fashion industry?
Faria: One of the key challenges in the fashion industry, whether operating domestically or internationally, is maintaining and expressing your unique identity. Plagiarism poses a significant threat, with core concepts often being copied by mainstream brands rather than just retailers. Safeguarding intellectual property is a common struggle for artists, as I have personally experienced my designs being replicated by online stores. This issue of counterfeiting is pervasive globally and remains a major obstacle to overcome. In today’s world, it is crucial for brands to prioritize sustainability beyond just fabric choices. Creating a supportive environment for employees and practicing ethical behavior throughout the supply chain are essential steps towards true sustainability. Being a sustainable brand involves more than just using eco-friendly materials; it requires ensuring fair treatment of all individuals involved in the production process.
TINDS: If you had to choose an alternative career path what would it be?
Faria: If I wasn’t doing architecture, I would love to paint. I love doing art. I also write poems. So maybe I could be a lyricist. But a really funny thing happened when I was younger till I was in my tenth grade. I always wanted to be a doctor and everyone thought I’d be one.
TINDS: How do you see the upcoming years in the fashion industry coming up?
Faria: Currently, the fashion industry is experiencing an exhilarating period with brands actively targeting diverse audiences. From Gen Z to Millennials, there are specialized brands for each generation. This diversity promises an exciting future where two distinct genres will coexist harmoniously, creating a much-needed balance in the industry.
TINDS: What would your advice be to upcoming fashion designers?
Faria: I would actually say that it’s very important not to get carried away. Do not create with the idea of commercialism. That’s very important because that is something I see a lot in designers in general. I feel like if you really want to stand out it’s very important for you to have an individualistic recognizable language and create something that brings out emotions and people that when they wear they embody your dream. Celebrate art and when you do, and when you’re focused on your craft, everything else will fall into place. I think that’s very important because you should be focusing on your craft and your improvement.
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