Behind The Look With Nabeela Najjar
By Natalie Milhouse | December 21, 2019
HOW A FEW STATEMENT PIECES CAN CREATE A MULTITUDE OF OUTFITS THAT NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE
Costume and Fashion Designer, Nabeela Najjar fitting Charity Ward for the Winter 2019 Edition covershoot editorial
We enjoyed having Detroit Costume and Fashion Designer Nabeela Najjar craft a custom two-piece look for our 2019 Winter Spotlight Enthusiast, Charity. Najjar graduated from the College for Creative Studies, majoring in Fibers and Textiles, where she would discover her technique and style. Najjar’s admiration for nature is predominantly expressed in her design aesthetic. With an emphasis on quality, her work exudes a regal elegance, making it easy to identify a Nabeela Najjar garment.
HIBISCUS ROSA
This garment made me think of one of my favorite flowers, the Hibiscus Rosa.
I wanted to go for something sleek for the cut—kind of like the stem of a flower. Without the blooming flower, the stem is just bare. I start with a blank base and then embellish it. My favorite fabric to use is sheer silk because it's very fluid, dreamy, and more sustainable. I try to stay away from synthetics when I can.
Q
WHO ARE YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCES IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY?
A
I would have to say the earlier days of Alexander McQueen. His work was more on the costume side. It was structural but still a bit whimsical with touches of nature-inspired elements. His work inspired me to branch out and explore more than just ready-to-wear fashion, which is why I primarily like to refer to myself as a costume designer.
Q
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PART ABOUT ESTABLISHING YOUR BRAND?
A
Being a one-person company is a little difficult at times. I tend to take on a lot of big projects, which can be overwhelming. However, I always come through for myself. I have a very supportive family who helps a lot when it comes to setting up for events. My mom taught me the basics of sewing, so when I have a large project, she's right there sewing alongside me, which eases my mind. Honestly, the fact that I established my brand upon graduating is rewarding to me, and continuously getting my name out there and having people contact me for various events is rewarding.
Q
WHAT TYPE OF PROJECTS OR SPACES DO YOU HOPE TO EXPLORE NEXT YEAR?
A
For next year I already have some events and projects planned. I'll be exploring bridal wear as I've been commissioned to create a few wedding gowns. I have a few fashion shows at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, in addition to being approached about New York Fashion Week as well. So I'll definitely be busy! I have wanted to do a solo show and plan to work that into my plans for next year.
Beyond fashion shows, Nabeela’s work has been displayed in historical landmarks across the City of Detroit, storefronts, and used in various visuals for artists.
