We think ‘The Gem of East London’ is the perfect way to describe Nika Mokhtassi’s first collection for her label Paradise Row. Ever since London Fashion Week, we have had our eye on the unique pieces Paradise Row has to offer. Handbags usually make a statement, but with every Paradise Row handbag, you become part of a community. Here at Amanqi, we love upcoming designers and learning about their journey, and that is just what we did with designer Nika Mokhtassi.
As each bag is a testimony to the artisan community, there is a charm on each piece that captures the essence of the rich cultural history imbibed by London.
Based in East London, Paradise Row boasts of a contemporary and artisanal style, which reflects East London’s take on art, creativeness and culture and acts as both a fashion & lifestyle brand. This probably explains why the brand was named after the famous East London cobbled street – Paradise Row. Mesmerised by Nika’s stall at London Fashion, we had a chat with her to understand her inspiration behind the collection.
Photo: Courtesy of Paradise Row
When Nika moved to East London 4 years ago, the mix of the old and new in London was her main inspiration. She captured that in her handbag designs that can go from day to night, as a satchel or as a clutch. The CORE collection is an ode to the rich and varied history of East London, incorporating 5 satchel style handbags (a classic British shape) with the use of earthy, minimalist colours.
Based in East London, Paradise Row boasts of a contemporary and artisanal style, which reflects East London’s take on art, creativeness and culture and acts as both a fashion & lifestyle brand.
As each bag is a testimony to the artisan community, there is a charm on each piece that captures the essence of the rich cultural history imbibed by London; such as the pearl in ‘The Pearly’ symbolising the Pearly kings and queens of the Pearlies charity, or a boxing glove charm that represents the major role boxing played in the East London community. The symbolism doesn’t end just there; ‘The Silkweaver’ pays respects to the Hugenot silkweavers that escaped France to settle in Shoreditch, Whitechapel, Spitalfields and Bethnal Green, whilst ‘The Buddha’ charm signifies London’s Buddha Centre, which spreads peace and mindfulness. Lastly, ‘The Mariner’ embraces the Royal Navy’s expansion of international trade to the riverside in East London.
Photo: Courtesy of Paradise Row
Photo: Courtesy of Paradise Row
Follow Paradise Row: @paradise.row