Modern twist on traditional kaftans

Hanaa's designs boast bright shades Casablanca - Iman Abdel Nabi What made you want to pursue a career in fashion designing? From a young I adored designing. I spent my childhood dressmaking and found great entertainment in up-cycling old clothes into new designs. I remember walking through a neighbourhood one day and spotting a school for fashion designing. I stopped and stared at it then decided to enter without even thinking. I toured its premises and immediately felt at home. I liked the atmosphere and enthusiasm of the students so I decided to join. I like working with simple cloth, reinventing it and adding my personal touch. I dislike ready cut fabrics as they limit my capabilities and innovations. What is the latest global design trend with Kaftans? Decorating traditional kaftans with coloured gemstones is the biggest thing right now. Also using rich, vibrant shades are very summer 2013. I like taking dark coloured cloths and weaving in bright palettes for that unique touch. As for the cloth itself, I prefer to use silk. What makes your designs special? I tend to go for something different that showcases my artistic abilities. I tailor-make them for women as well as children and always keep an aspect of Moroccan elegance. I keep the important traditional aspects, but add a modern twist with the embroidery and mixing bright and dark colours, as I believe this is what has made them popular with the European market.