Tammy B : Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you from? What's your educational background? What are your general professional and non-professional interests?
Sana Hashmat: My name is Sana Hashmat and I’m a young Entrepreneur from New York City currently managing various ventures including, Sana Hashmat Couture (SHC). My educational background is in Finance, Economics, and Marketing Management with professional experiences in Corporate and Fashion sectors and personal interest in philanthropy, traveling, and learning new languages. I’m a self-taught Fashion Couturier, Designer, Stylist, Merchandizer, Photographer, etc. As the Founder & CEO of Sana Hashmat Couture, I manage all aspects of the company from product development to the execution of daily operations. Other companies I have founded and simultaneously manage are: Hope Foundation (Global Humanitarian Welfare), MyBrand (Marketing & Branding Consultancy), and Precious Mumins (Books for Infants & Toddlers). I’m truly grateful to God to be blessed to do everything I sincerely love.
Tammy B: What does bk fashion weekend mean to you?
Sana Hashmat: Sana Hashmat Couture’s fashion shows are normally done in NYC and although I have done fashion shows in different areas of NY, it was wonderful to showcase my niche collection in Brooklyn for the first time! It was a totally different venue and audience base to present to but the heartwarming reception and strong interest in Sana Hashmat Couture from them was really amazing. I really enjoyed presenting various pieces from past and upcoming collections.
Tammy B: How would you define your city's fashion?
Sana Hashmat: Just like the diverse city, NYC’s fashion style varies depending on the area but catering mainly to the mainstream. Although, Sana Hashmat Couture is based in New York City, it has a strong global appeal as well.
Tammy B: When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?
Sana Hashmat: During my childhood I’ve been designing and styling since the age of 5 although my education and career path were business centric. I’ve always been a business savvy yet creative person with strong interest in analyzing, problem solving, and innovatively coming to solutions. I have always wanted to redefine fashion whilst helping humanity. So channeling my blend of fashion sensibility and business expertise and incorporating my creative fashion concepts in a realistic manner led me to officially establish my niche fashion company, Sana Hashmat Couture in October 2009.
Tammy B: What was the first article of clothing you ever designed?
Sana Hashmat: Since I was 5, I have been designing clothes for dolls (instead of playing with them) to actually making clothes for myself and others from dresses, tops, necklaces, headbands, etc. Others have always been impressed by my attention to high-end construction and finishing details, stylish outlook of my designs, and ability to make non-fitting, non-silhouette revealing, and non-body exposing clothes very attractive and elegant.
Tammy B: Describe the general process you go through to design and realize a piece of clothing.
Sana Hashmat: Every aspect of the designing process requires great attention to details and if anything is slightly overlooked it can drastically impact other elements of the finished look. My approach differs from a standard designing process. Sometimes I design based on the fabric/materials other times I first sketch and then there are times when I directly sew without any preplanned designs on sketches. But mostly, I create a niche concept/theme/collection name in line with Sana Hashmat Couture’s philosophy, I then design a comprehensive collection consisting of variety of versatile pieces that have multiple looks and can be mixed and matched effortlessly with past and future collections. Regardless of my approach, all of my pieces reflect Sana Hashmat Couture’s philosophy and are designed with extensive love, dedication and detail!
Tammy B: What are some of your accomplishments as a designer?
Sana Hashmat: I don’t quantify success and accomplishments in terms of how many media features I have gotten or what TV shows I have appeared on, or what celebrities I have dressed, etc. I consider my major accomplishments to be single handedly making what seemed once impossible now possible, fulfilling an unaddressed need in the marketplace, whilst having a lasting impact on humanity and global economies via Sana Hashmat Couture. Sana Hashmat Couture started out in NYC as a small brand and has since flourished as a professional and respected world renowned brand having a strong affinity from clients and non-clients alike. Since inception, launching 6 comprehensive collections season after season and contributing growth in the local and global economies whilst empowering and enlightening humanity through its inspirational philosophy and philanthropic campaigns.
Providing a permanent solution to my Clients with variety of couture outfits that they have been searching for a very long time is obviously a great accomplishment. When non-Clients however tell me that Sana Hashmat Couture’s designs and business approach is revolutionary and inspirational, it is a huge achievement for me to know that at the end of the day Sana Hashmat Couture has enlightened others to embrace their natural beauty and individuality. That it has been a beneficial factor in blossoming their self-esteem and making them feel content with themselves. And that I have helped them realize that they are beautiful inside out. This metaphor is consistently reflected in all of my collections especially with my reversible pieces which literarily illustrate this. I’m blessed to have achieved all of these accomplishments and have their dedicated support. I hope to continue to make the Sana Hashmat Couture experience a great one for everyone.
Tammy B: Who are some of your favorite designers?
Sana Hashmat: I don’t have any. However, what I find admirable is when designs are constructed with the highest level of quality inside and out, don’t conform to mainstream fashion but instead stand apart and are still functional and versatile, utilize the most challenging fabrics, trims, notions, and daringly blend traditional elements into new concepts altogether, and most importantly are applicable to the end consumer in terms of both fashion and functionality! The latter in high-end fashion is often overlooked and although it’s nice to see some creative and entertaining displays on the runway, I believe if such pieces are not functional or wearable then really they are only halfway complete. I also appreciate designers that are holistic in their approach for the betterment of humanity.
Tammy B: Where can readers buy your clothes?
Sana Hashmat: On Sana Hashmat Couture’s website www.SanaHashmatCouture.com. We currently have a special extended sale promotion in light of our BKFW Fashion Show (savings up to 83% off with very limited quantizes left in stock).
Tammy B: What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing?
Sana Hashmat: As an Haute Couturier, to me the highest standard of quality is an absolute must from development to distribution to the Clients. It is imperative that the finest materials are used and every part of the item is crafted with exceptional workmanship, impeccable quality and elegant beauty no matter how small or large it is and whether the finishing is visible on the surface or beneath the lining, seams, or closure. And most importantly that it is compliant to all regulatory requirements! I just can’t stand when I see garments being sold with improper or missing garment labels. Not only because it’s illegal to do so but because really it deprives the consumer and impacts the durability of the garments.
Tammy B: Do you consider yourself an artist?
Sana Hashmat: No, I don’t necessarily consider myself an artist per se although I can understand why others may. I actually consider myself an Entrepreneur & Humanitarian.
Tammy B; What matters to you most as a fashion designer?
Sana Hashmat: Whatever your profession may be, I believe it’s very important to stay true to your mission and not compromise it despite the adversities. Creating revolutionary yet functional designs that are able to speak for themselves without sex appeal, objectification, or unnatural embellishments. Defining trends not following them. Neat and polished construction inside out. Knowing the legal requirements of the industry you are in. Most importantly, treating everyone with professionalism which may seem like common sense but don’t be surprised how many times this simple principle is disregarded.
Tammy B: What's your favorite part about conceptualizing a design?
Sana Hashmat: At the end of the long and comprehensive process seeing my intangible design transform into an actual piece! My favorite part is seeing the happiness my products bring to my Clients and Prospects and how much more they love the pieces in person.
Tammy B: What advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers?
Saba Hashmat: My advice to anyone in any profession would be to always determine why it is that you are doing something or would like to do? Does it only benefit you or are you helping others in the process? Whether you are choosing to pursue this on an individual or business level – as a hobby or a career, to succeed you will need to be passionate, patient, perseverant, and professional coupled with having good intentions, a lot of creativity, of course hard work!
Tammy B: What do you like best about designing clothes?
Sana Hashmat: Revitalizing mundane concepts and transforming them in to GEM from A.M. to P.M. and of course seeing my clients rocking my pieces.
Tammy B: What do you dislike about designing clothes?
Sana Hashmat: Infringement of designs and concepts. Preconceived-subjective-stereotypical notions that my company only appeals to women and/or a certain group of people (when realistically it caters to a diverse group of people including children, men, and women around the world). Believe it or not although my pieces are very labor intensive due to the high end detailing required, that is not what I dislike at all, it’s actually not being able to find the raw materials needed to complete my envisioned designs!
Tammy B: How would you define your personal style?
Sana Hashmat: Sana Hashmat Couture is a precise reflection of my personal style. Regardless of the occasion, I can easily wear any of the pieces from A.M. to P.M. That’s what makes working on my company so much fun. I only launch pieces that I personally will wear myself. A lot of times I see designers creating collections and not standing behind their pieces. I believe that as a designer you should be proud to wear whatever you have designed.
Tammy B: How would you define the style your line exemplifies?
Sana Hashmat: As the logo says: Graceful. Elegant. Modest (GEM) from A.M. to P.M. Regardless of the occasion, it offers niche, avante garde, revolutionary, stylish, and versatile pieces across corporate, evening, specialty, to casual wear in an array of rich fabrics and captivating accessories.
Tammy B: What are some of your fashion goals?
Sana Hashmat: Continue to launch more collections and although Sana Hashmat Couture offers some unisex products (ties and cufflinks) I would like to create an exclusive menswear collection. Some other goals are to continue to have a global presence, remain committed in raising more funds for our philanthropic campaigns, and establish a scholarship program to educate, empower, and enlighten. I know Sana Hashmat Couture has already had a positive impact on humanity but I particularly want to help those suffering from eating disorders triggered by unrealistic social standards resulting in low self-esteem and fatal health.
Tammy B : Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you from? What's your educational background? What are your general professional and non-professional interests?
Sana Hashmat: My name is Sana Hashmat and I’m a young Entrepreneur from New York City currently managing various ventures including, Sana Hashmat Couture (SHC). My educational background is in Finance, Economics, and Marketing Management with professional experiences in Corporate and Fashion sectors and personal interest in philanthropy, traveling, and learning new languages. I’m a self-taught Fashion Couturier, Designer, Stylist, Merchandizer, Photographer, etc. As the Founder & CEO of Sana Hashmat Couture, I manage all aspects of the company from product development to the execution of daily operations. Other companies I have founded and simultaneously manage are: Hope Foundation (Global Humanitarian Welfare), MyBrand (Marketing & Branding Consultancy), and Precious Mumins (Books for Infants & Toddlers). I’m truly grateful to God to be blessed to do everything I sincerely love.
Tammy B: What does bk fashion weekend mean to you?
Sana Hashmat: Sana Hashmat Couture’s fashion shows are normally done in NYC and although I have done fashion shows in different areas of NY, it was wonderful to showcase my niche collection in Brooklyn for the first time! It was a totally different venue and audience base to present to but the heartwarming reception and strong interest in Sana Hashmat Couture from them was really amazing. I really enjoyed presenting various pieces from past and upcoming collections.
Tammy B: How would you define your city's fashion?
Sana Hashmat: Just like the diverse city, NYC’s fashion style varies depending on the area but catering mainly to the mainstream. Although, Sana Hashmat Couture is based in New York City, it has a strong global appeal as well.
Tammy B: When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?
Sana Hashmat: During my childhood I’ve been designing and styling since the age of 5 although my education and career path were business centric. I’ve always been a business savvy yet creative person with strong interest in analyzing, problem solving, and innovatively coming to solutions. I have always wanted to redefine fashion whilst helping humanity. So channeling my blend of fashion sensibility and business expertise and incorporating my creative fashion concepts in a realistic manner led me to officially establish my niche fashion company, Sana Hashmat Couture in October 2009.
Tammy B: What was the first article of clothing you ever designed?
Sana Hashmat: Since I was 5, I have been designing clothes for dolls (instead of playing with them) to actually making clothes for myself and others from dresses, tops, necklaces, headbands, etc. Others have always been impressed by my attention to high-end construction and finishing details, stylish outlook of my designs, and ability to make non-fitting, non-silhouette revealing, and non-body exposing clothes very attractive and elegant.
Tammy B: Describe the general process you go through to design and realize a piece of clothing.
Sana Hashmat: Every aspect of the designing process requires great attention to details and if anything is slightly overlooked it can drastically impact other elements of the finished look. My approach differs from a standard designing process. Sometimes I design based on the fabric/materials other times I first sketch and then there are times when I directly sew without any preplanned designs on sketches. But mostly, I create a niche concept/theme/collection name in line with Sana Hashmat Couture’s philosophy, I then design a comprehensive collection consisting of variety of versatile pieces that have multiple looks and can be mixed and matched effortlessly with past and future collections. Regardless of my approach, all of my pieces reflect Sana Hashmat Couture’s philosophy and are designed with extensive love, dedication and detail!
Tammy B: What are some of your accomplishments as a designer?
Sana Hashmat: I don’t quantify success and accomplishments in terms of how many media features I have gotten or what TV shows I have appeared on, or what celebrities I have dressed, etc. I consider my major accomplishments to be single handedly making what seemed once impossible now possible, fulfilling an unaddressed need in the marketplace, whilst having a lasting impact on humanity and global economies via Sana Hashmat Couture. Sana Hashmat Couture started out in NYC as a small brand and has since flourished as a professional and respected world renowned brand having a strong affinity from clients and non-clients alike. Since inception, launching 6 comprehensive collections season after season and contributing growth in the local and global economies whilst empowering and enlightening humanity through its inspirational philosophy and philanthropic campaigns.
Providing a permanent solution to my Clients with variety of couture outfits that they have been searching for a very long time is obviously a great accomplishment. When non-Clients however tell me that Sana Hashmat Couture’s designs and business approach is revolutionary and inspirational, it is a huge achievement for me to know that at the end of the day Sana Hashmat Couture has enlightened others to embrace their natural beauty and individuality. That it has been a beneficial factor in blossoming their self-esteem and making them feel content with themselves. And that I have helped them realize that they are beautiful inside out. This metaphor is consistently reflected in all of my collections especially with my reversible pieces which literarily illustrate this. I’m blessed to have achieved all of these accomplishments and have their dedicated support. I hope to continue to make the Sana Hashmat Couture experience a great one for everyone.
Tammy B: Who are some of your favorite designers?
Sana Hashmat: I don’t have any. However, what I find admirable is when designs are constructed with the highest level of quality inside and out, don’t conform to mainstream fashion but instead stand apart and are still functional and versatile, utilize the most challenging fabrics, trims, notions, and daringly blend traditional elements into new concepts altogether, and most importantly are applicable to the end consumer in terms of both fashion and functionality! The latter in high-end fashion is often overlooked and although it’s nice to see some creative and entertaining displays on the runway, I believe if such pieces are not functional or wearable then really they are only halfway complete. I also appreciate designers that are holistic in their approach for the betterment of humanity.
Tammy B: Where can readers buy your clothes?
Sana Hashmat: On Sana Hashmat Couture’s website www.SanaHashmatCouture.com. We currently have a special extended sale promotion in light of our BKFW Fashion Show (savings up to 83% off with very limited quantizes left in stock).
Tammy B: What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing?
Sana Hashmat: As an Haute Couturier, to me the highest standard of quality is an absolute must from development to distribution to the Clients. It is imperative that the finest materials are used and every part of the item is crafted with exceptional workmanship, impeccable quality and elegant beauty no matter how small or large it is and whether the finishing is visible on the surface or beneath the lining, seams, or closure. And most importantly that it is compliant to all regulatory requirements! I just can’t stand when I see garments being sold with improper or missing garment labels. Not only because it’s illegal to do so but because really it deprives the consumer and impacts the durability of the garments.
Tammy B: Do you consider yourself an artist?
Sana Hashmat: No, I don’t necessarily consider myself an artist per se although I can understand why others may. I actually consider myself an Entrepreneur & Humanitarian.
Tammy B; What matters to you most as a fashion designer?
Sana Hashmat: Whatever your profession may be, I believe it’s very important to stay true to your mission and not compromise it despite the adversities. Creating revolutionary yet functional designs that are able to speak for themselves without sex appeal, objectification, or unnatural embellishments. Defining trends not following them. Neat and polished construction inside out. Knowing the legal requirements of the industry you are in. Most importantly, treating everyone with professionalism which may seem like common sense but don’t be surprised how many times this simple principle is disregarded.
Tammy B: What's your favorite part about conceptualizing a design?
Sana Hashmat: At the end of the long and comprehensive process seeing my intangible design transform into an actual piece! My favorite part is seeing the happiness my products bring to my Clients and Prospects and how much more they love the pieces in person.
Tammy B: What advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers?
Saba Hashmat: My advice to anyone in any profession would be to always determine why it is that you are doing something or would like to do? Does it only benefit you or are you helping others in the process? Whether you are choosing to pursue this on an individual or business level – as a hobby or a career, to succeed you will need to be passionate, patient, perseverant, and professional coupled with having good intentions, a lot of creativity, of course hard work!
Tammy B: What do you like best about designing clothes?
Sana Hashmat: Revitalizing mundane concepts and transforming them in to GEM from A.M. to P.M. and of course seeing my clients rocking my pieces.
Tammy B: What do you dislike about designing clothes?
Sana Hashmat: Infringement of designs and concepts. Preconceived-subjective-stereotypical notions that my company only appeals to women and/or a certain group of people (when realistically it caters to a diverse group of people including children, men, and women around the world). Believe it or not although my pieces are very labor intensive due to the high end detailing required, that is not what I dislike at all, it’s actually not being able to find the raw materials needed to complete my envisioned designs!
Tammy B: How would you define your personal style?
Sana Hashmat: Sana Hashmat Couture is a precise reflection of my personal style. Regardless of the occasion, I can easily wear any of the pieces from A.M. to P.M. That’s what makes working on my company so much fun. I only launch pieces that I personally will wear myself. A lot of times I see designers creating collections and not standing behind their pieces. I believe that as a designer you should be proud to wear whatever you have designed.
Tammy B: How would you define the style your line exemplifies?
Sana Hashmat: As the logo says: Graceful. Elegant. Modest (GEM) from A.M. to P.M. Regardless of the occasion, it offers niche, avante garde, revolutionary, stylish, and versatile pieces across corporate, evening, specialty, to casual wear in an array of rich fabrics and captivating accessories.
Tammy B: What are some of your fashion goals?
Sana Hashmat: Continue to launch more collections and although Sana Hashmat Couture offers some unisex products (ties and cufflinks) I would like to create an exclusive menswear collection. Some other goals are to continue to have a global presence, remain committed in raising more funds for our philanthropic campaigns, and establish a scholarship program to educate, empower, and enlighten. I know Sana Hashmat Couture has already had a positive impact on humanity but I particularly want to help those suffering from eating disorders triggered by unrealistic social standards resulting in low self-esteem and fatal health.
Tammy B: Where do you get your inspiration?
Sana Hashmat: Sana Hashmat Couture’s philosophy/mission and everything it stands for which is beautifully summed up in its logo – Graceful. Elegant. Modest (GEM) from A.M. to P.M. is my daily inspirational factor. What makes Sana Hashmat Couture so refreshing is that all of our collections and events are always executed in light of this simple yet profound statement.
Tammy B: What other experience do you have in the fashion industry (stylist, retail, marketing, etc.)?
Sana Hashmat: My unique background, expertise, and passion has enabled me to specialize in all the fundamentals of design development (including sketching, pattern making, marking, grading, sewing, garment testing, producing, and distributing), execution, and business management.
Tammy B: What are your favorite patterns [prints] to work with and why?
Sana Hashmat: I can’t choose one, I seriously LOVE working with ALL types of fabrics, materials, and fiber compositions and integrating them in a manner that is usually rare or unheard of in mainstream fashion. I also design my own fabric designs that are exclusively weaved for Sana Hashmat Couture.
Tammy B: If I wasn't a designer I would be ________________
Sana Hashmat: whatever I’m meant to be – whatever God has ordained for me. I’m truly blessed to have the opportunity to be a “Jack of All Trades” and having done so many wonderful things and to be now simultaneously doing all the other things I very much enjoy. For me this is a fulfilled and blessed lifestyle on a professional and personal level – utilizing yourself to full potential, loving what you do, and helping the world in the process.
Tammy B: Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
Sana Hashmat: Website: www.SanaHashmatCouture.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/SanaHashmatCouture
Twitter: www.twitter.com/SanaHashmatCo
Skype: SanaHashmatCouture
Email: info@SanaHashmatCouture.com
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