YAZI is a Bahraini women’s accessories brand founded in 2005 by artist Yasmin Salahuddin. Just recently, we had the chance to interview her about her brand YAZI, her new Autumn/Winter collection and more!
Can you tell us a bit about yourself? What motivated you to become a designer?
My name is Yasmin Salahuddin, a Bahraini graphic artist, businesswoman, mother, and the founder of YAZI label.
I remember being fresh out of Art School in London. What motivated me was the idea of creating pieces of art that can also be ready-to-wear and accessories – hence, the YAZI brand was born in 2005.
What was the inspiration behind your latest collection?
Being a graphic designer/artist, I draw inspiration from my surroundings and things that ignite my passion such as diamonds, gemstones, animals and cities I’ve visited throughout the years. I then translate those inspirations to pieces of wearable art. Usually in my designs, you will see a combination of those elements making it intriguing to the eye.
We have learned that you are the granddaughter of pioneering architect Salahuddin. How does this connection translate to your craftsmanship?
Yes, my grandfather was a pioneer and has set the ground work for many landmarks in the Kingdom of Bahrain in the early 1900’s; it was his eye for avant-garde design and being a visionary that I strongly connect with.
I believe that art and architecture have a deep connection and complement one another; for architecture is a form of artistic vision that has come to life in a space.
As an ode to my late grandfather, I introduced two scarves honoring his designs: one is an abstract piece of Bab Al Bahrain and the other is the Manama Skyline.
What messages do you convey through your creations?
I basically let the scarf do the talking, each piece has many intricate details that one discovers every day – these are then worn as a statement accessory elevating a person’s ensemble.
What aspects of the fashion industry would you like to change?
I would like to see more conscious consumerism in the fashion industry, where the buyer would opt for quality over quantity investing in pieces that would last longer in your closet. We practice this approach at Yazi, where we focus on quality and using the finest cashmere-soft wool that would last for many seasons to come.
YAZI Autumn/Winter 2020 collection is inspired by the beauty of the Middle East with intertwined prints of colourful palm trees, Arabesque patterns inspired by the doorways of Morocco and Hamsa Eyes famously known to ward off negative vibes. These scarves are made from nely spun lightweight wool weaved into jewel toned backgrounds of Malachite Green, Ruby Red and Sapphire Blue.
YAZI is available online and at Saks Fifth Avenue, Middle East