Bursting with minimalist shapes and maximalist glamour, Romani is a godsend for those who crave eye-catching pieces that add gloss to the every day. The label is the creation of ex-buyer Haya Jarrar, who always knew that one day she’d create her own label for the confident, wild yet feminine woman. It’s a one-stop shop for sophisticated, model-approved pieces. Think statement jackets, denim and PVC coordinates and feminine flute-sleeved tops. Each piece is quiet but with lots of attitude.
The designs – simultaneously daring yet elegant – are in tune to current trends (luxury fringing; transparent fabrications; and the dominant leather) but embody enduring appeal through exacting cuts and modern femininity. Not only are the styles attention-grabbing and very on-point for the season, they are also incredibly versatile. My pick? The suede blazer jacket (image attached) is my standout piece – it is strong and striking. It’s a hybrid design between a blazer and a jacket (a staple piece which we all now need) features a clean cut, leather sleeves and fringe to showcase the designer’s eye for subtle rock n’ roll detailing.
Romani is already making its mark on the international style circuit as fashion & lifestyle bloggers sport the first collection. Lebanese-Australian model, humanitarian and law graduate Jessica Kahawaty wore the Mia denim jeans in New York city while Dana Hourani and Fatima Al Momen each wore the Anita Jacket to their own personal style, respectively. Captivated by the label’s strong motifs, we sat down with the founder and designer, Haya Jarrar, to discover the journey and inspiration behind the label as well as the most coveted closet essentials for AW’18.
Photo: Courtesy of Romani
1) What sparked your interest in fashion?
Haya: What first sparked my interest in fashion is the fact that I love dressing up and wearing unique pieces that make me feel beautiful. Fashion has the ability to be a form of self-expression and I think that’s very powerful.
2) How did you get started?
Haya: I always knew I would eventually have my own line however; it was after working as a buyer that I felt I’d learnt enough to finally take the plunge and do it. The timing felt right and it was the push I needed.
3) What is the biggest inspiration behind your collection?
Haya: My Fall/Winter 18-19 collection is Rock and Roll Chic. It was based on classic Rock & Roll artists and their female muses. For example: a mixture of Keith Richard’s leather jackets and blazers inspired the design of the Anja and Lilly jackets. These can be worn formally or casually based on character/occasion. Whereas, the Anita Jacket was inspired by the Rolling Stones’ muse Anita Pallenberg.
Romani is named after the language of gypsies because, like their lifestyle my collections will not be tied down to a specific place in the design world, whilst still having an essence of my brand which is bold and untamed.
4) Who is the Romani woman?
Haya: The Romani woman is fearless, confident, wild and feminine.
Photo: Courtesy of Romani
5) What’s your favourite fabric?
Haya: I don’t have a particular fabric I like working with. I like deciding on a fabric depending on the piece I design.
6) What role do you think social media plays in fashion today?
Haya: Social media plays a very integral role in fashion today; as it allows designers, such as myself, to put my creations out there for the world to see. The doors it opens are endless.
7) What are three pieces every woman should have in her wardrobe?
Haya: A leather Jacket, a little black dress and a pair of perfectly fitted jeans.
8) What are the must-wear prints for the season?
Haya: Animal prints like python, cheetah, croc etc. and you can never go wrong with classic black.
Photo: Courtesy of Romani
9) Which trend are you completely over?
Haya:I’m over all street-style trends especially long socks and sneakers… bring back the glam!
10) What’s your most marked characteristic?
Haya: Rebellious.
11) What are you reading right now?
Haya: The Story of Art, by Ernst Gombrich.
12) Who is your current muse?
Haya: Anita Pallenberg.
14) What would you like to achieve by the end of the year?
Haya: I have a lot of plans and surprises for Romani and hopefully I’ll be able to tick them all off by the end of the year.
Photo: Courtesy of Romani
Follow Romani: @romani.official