Last season, when we had introduced incredible talent powerhouse Dina Shaker on Amanqi, we were instantly besotted with the Cairo-based designer’s understated elegance & redefined feminine aesthetic. Combining clean & minimalistic silhouettes with statement dramatic detailing, Dina has quickly gained prominence as the ‘go-to’ name amongst contemporary designers for versatile, modern ready-to-wear pieces (honestly, we’re in love).
Eager to discover more about the design powerhouse’s journey, ability to challenge norms of femininity & sources of inspiration, we sat down with Dina for an insider glimpse into her life.
The Dina Shaker Journey
Dina: I have always had an eye for all things artsy. As a kid, I would watch my mother’s tailor work her magic and be completely astonished by the process. I knew I wanted to fulfill this need for fashion design, so I followed the closest thing to fashion at the time—interior design. Then in 2011, I started the label, Dina Shaker, and I’ve put my heart and soul into every collection.
Dina’s Many Sources of Inspiration
Dina: To me, inspiration is a never ending process. I am inspired by all the things around me. However, a common theme you can find between my collections in terms of inspiration is geometry and architecture: lines, asymmetry, shapes, etc.
Photo: Courtesy of Dina Shaker
The Impact of Social Media
Dina: I think social media is a great method to express a brand’s aesthetic. I’m inspired by mostly very avant-garde designers, and deliver that message of masculinity versus femininity, boldness, edginess — you need to be very visual. On Instagram, I am able to take customers into my mind and show them the moods, colors, and vibes that inspire and become of the brand.
A Usual Day in The Life of Dina
Dina: Again, a never ending inspiration journey. I am constantly thinking about bettering my brand and finding new sources of inspiration.
Photo: Courtesy of Dina Shaker
Dina’s Closet Essentials & Seasonal ‘Must-Haves’
Dina: Closet essentials are definitely classics. This was my aim with Recomposed Classics—taking everyday pieces and turning them into something unique.
The Inside Tip to Aspiring Designers
Dina: Never change your image and identity to suit others. Put your own character into every one of your pieces and you will find the right audience that will fall in love with every piece!
Photo: Courtesy of Dina Shaker
Photo: Courtesy of Dina Shaker
Follow Dina Shaker: @dinashaker