"I'm Wearing Zahra Shivji" FAB Show 2014
On November 22 I debuted my second official line for my collection (still unnamed) at Boston University's Fashion and Retail Association (FAB). Being the Director of PR and member of the E-board, I basically ate, slept and breathed the fashion show for months. Being a designer for the show was just a plus. The show this year was "Shanghai Whispers", inspired and themed by the upcoming 2015 "Chinese Whispers" Met Gala. I can describe my second line as "Edgy with a dash of class". Capes, Pearls, mesh fabric and bling: these 4 things epitomize my personal style, and were shown in the line I debuted in "Shanghai Whispers" . It consisted of minimalist pieces illustrating dark colored palettes, lace and bell bottom pants. The 6 pieces in my collection emphasized the 60's laid back style, the 80's-90's vintage style combined and the Renaissance era. My ultimate inspiration other than my mother, was my muse and idol , Coco Chanel. Chanel has a talent of making the blacks and whites in apparel and jewelry catch your attention instantly. A simple black dress has as much value as a 10 carat diamond ring because of the class, glamour and sparkle Chanel brings to the table.
Finally, my mother, also known as my stylist and fashion guru was my main inspiration. This second collection would not have been created without her, back and forth with all the fabric swatches, the colors, the models, so many aspects of this line were created due to her passion as well. My mom and I both have an obsession with capes, therefore my main piece was a short gray -lace - mesh cape. Long capes have been used since the 1400's but short capes are trend that started in the 80's. Obviously the trend is reemerging now and I implemented that with the high neck collar and round ended cape. For the first time ever, I wore my own designs. A black cape dress with pearls embroidered throughout. It was invigorating to walk down the runway after my line was debuted and having the audience members and VIP clapping and cheering my name. And my absolute favorite part of the night was being able to tell all the press, my family and friends "I'm wearing Zahra Shivji".
My cape-pearl dress is sketched, designed and styled by my mom and I. I am wearing a Chanel pearl and diamond cuff from the Spring 2014 collection. My favorite part of this ensemble is my clutch. This Chanel lego clutch is a red lego clutch bag, carried by many celebrities and only a few were made in America. We own the black lego clutch, the transparent one and the limited edition black/Pearl clutch. This bag, as durable as it looks, was the most nerve recking thing to hold. Retailing minimum at 9,000$ - 18,000$ I was more afraid to put this down than my wallet. Comfy and stylish is the way to go when you have to run around all night, my peep toe heels are Steve Madden and I swear by this style since they are significantly comfortable while also being subtly stylish.
