We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Fatima Dahmani about their original and creative Cuff design work. Fatima Dahmani is an award-winning fashion designer, that makes our world a better place with their original cuff works.
Fatima Dahmani ("FD") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Vestiges Cuff. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
FD : The main principle behind my design is to redefine Oriental jewelry by combining heritage and innovation. Drawing inspiration from the mesmerizing geometric patterns of Islamic architecture, I aim to create contemporary jewelry pieces that capture the essence of Oriental influences. My design is inspired by the intricate motifs found in ancient and contemporary architecture, symbolizing a rich cultural heritage and infusing it with a touch of modernity.
FD : My main focus in designing this work was to push the boundaries of traditional Oriental jewelry and create pieces that stand out from the crowd. I wanted to achieve a balance between timeless elegance and innovative design. By incorporating 3D design and printing techniques, I aimed to bring a new dimension to Oriental jewelry, allowing wearers to express their unique style with confidence and audacity.
FD : For this award-winning design, I plan to further develop new collection and for the Vestiges collection introduce new variations and complementary pieces. I also aim to expand the availability of the design to reach a wider audience, both nationally and internationally. Additionally, I plan to explore collaborations with other designers and artists to create unique jewelry pieces that merge various artistic disciplines.
FD : The design process for this particular concept took several months of dedicated work. From initial research and inspiration gathering to sketching, digital modeling, and prototyping, it required meticulous attention to detail and experimentation to bring the concept to life.
FD : I designed this particular concept out of my passion for reimagining Oriental influences in jewelry design. It was not commissioned but rather born out of my personal inspiration and desire to create something unique. The intricate patterns and timeless beauty of Islamic architecture fascinated me since childhood, and I wanted to translate that fascination into wearable art that would captivate others as well.
FD : Currently, I am producing and selling my designs myself under the brand name Moucharabieh. Each piece is meticulously crafted with the help of skilled artisans from France and Belgium, ensuring the quality standards. I aim to maintain a connection with my customers and provide them with a authentic and personal experience through my jewelry.
FD : The desire to challenge the norms of Oriental jewelry and offer a fresh perspective led me to design this particular type of work. I wanted to create jewelry that breaks away from traditional conventions, combining the allure of Oriental influences with innovative design techniques. By doing so, I strive to appeal to women who seek jewelry that is both elegant and unconventional, allowing them to express their unique personalities and styles.
FD : The target customer for this design is a modern woman who appreciates fine jewelry and seeks pieces that reflect her unique style and individuality. She is not swayed by current trends but instead values timeless elegance and distinctive design. She is culturally aware and appreciates the rich heritage of Oriental influences. The target customer is someone who desires to make a statement with their jewelry, expressing their own personality and embracing their individuality. They appreciate the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the story behind each piece, making them more than just accessories but wearable works of art.
FD : What sets this design apart from other similar or resembling concepts is its unique fusion of Oriental influences with modern design techniques. The intricate geometric patterns derived from Islamic architecture create a distinct visual impact, while the incorporation of 3D design and printing techniques adds a contemporary and dynamic element. This combination sets the design apart, making it a truly innovative and captivating choice for those seeking jewelry that stands out from the crowd.
FD : When naming this design, I sought a name that would capture the essence and concept behind the collection. The name chosen for this design is "Vestiges." The term "vestiges" refers to remnants or traces of something that has existed in the past. It reflects the inspiration drawn from archaeological digs and the idea of uncovering ancient treasures. In this context, the name signifies the jewelry pieces being reminiscent of artifacts that have endured the test of time. The name "Vestiges" aligns with the overall concept of the collection, which aims to evoke a sense of discovery and wonder. It symbolizes the notion that these jewelry pieces are not just accessories but also echoes of a universal heritage. By combining traditional Oriental jewelry elements with innovative design approaches, the name signifies a departure from conventional codes and a reimagining of jewelry aesthetics. By choosing "Vestiges" as the name, it reflects the intention of capturing the allure of time-worn artifacts and the artistic legacy of Islamic geometric patterns. It embodies the fusion of past and present, tradition and innovation, resulting in jewelry that carries a sense of history and contemporary appeal. Overall, the name "Vestiges" represents the narrative and inspiration behind this design, serving as a fitting representation of the collection's aesthetic and message.
FD : During the development of this project, I utilized a range of design tools to bring my vision to life. This included traditional sketching techniques to initially conceptualize the designs, as well as digital modeling software such as CAD (Computer-Aided Design) for creating precise and detailed 3D renderings. Additionally, 3D printing technology was employed to produce prototypes and refine the designs before the final production stage.
FD : Technology plays a significant role in this design, primarily through the use of digital modeling and 3D printing techniques. These technologies enable me to create highly detailed and intricate designs with precision that would be challenging to achieve through traditional methods alone. By leveraging technology, I can push the boundaries of design and incorporate complex geometric patterns and modern elements seamlessly into the jewelry pieces.
FD : While my design is not directly influenced by data or analytical research, I conducted extensive cultural research to ensure the authentic representation of Oriental influences. I studied traditional Islamic architecture, Oriental jewelry motifs, and historical references to understand the symbolism and aesthetics associated with them. This research informed my design choices, allowing me to create pieces that capture the essence of Oriental heritage while adding a contemporary twist.
FD : I decided to submit my design to an international design competition to gain recognition on a global platform and to showcase the unique qualities of my design to a wider audience. Participating in an international design competition allows me to receive feedback from industry professionals, connect with other talented designers, and potentially secure opportunities for exposure and collaboration. It also serves as a validation of the creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation behind my design, reinforcing its value and potential impact in the jewelry industry.
