INTERVIEW - Every Egyptian historical era serves as inspiration source: Designer Maram Borhan

Noha Eid, Tuesday 31 Dec 2024

Maram Borhan, a renowned Egyptian fashion designer, shares her journey into the fashion world with Ahram Online.

Maram Borhan

 

Borhan reflects on her beginnings, which started 15 years ago, the influence of Egyptian culture on her designs, and how her career evolved.

Ahram Online: How did you start working in the fashion industry?

Maram Borhan: I started working in fashion 15 years ago while living abroad. Initially, I began by importing ready-to-wear dresses for my friends. As time passed, my circle expanded, and I eventually opened my first boutique and designed my own logo.

I began designing my own dresses when I noticed the imported designs no longer appealed to me.

 I began making modifications according to our Eastern culture.

After that, I focused on creating pieces that reflected my artistic vision.

I was thrilled with the positive feedback I received when I held my first fashion show in Cairo.

AO: You started in fashion as a hands-on practice, learning over time. Did you formally study fashion design?

MB: In the later stages of my life, I attended training courses in Egypt, and I always strive to keep learning and growing in my field. However, my initial studies were not related to fashion design because I already had enough experience from my long involvement in importing dresses.

This taught me about fabrics, materials, embroidery (whether hand-stitched or machine-made), sewing techniques, and even how to mix different materials.

Understanding colour and how to use it with designs that suit different fabrics has also become second nature to me.

For example, velvet brings out the best in deep burgundy. I also love reading about fashion and am constantly teaching myself. However, I believe my experience came more through practical learning.

AO: It is apparent that you insist on reflecting Egyptian culture in your designs. What is your perspective on this?

MB: Our Egyptian culture has a unique character, and I genuinely admire the ancient Egyptian fashion, which has its own character.

 I once held a fashion show in the Citadel, and the designs were inspired by the historic structures of Salah El-Din’s Citadel. Every historical era of Egypt inspires me. Additionally, I like to draw inspiration from nature as a whole.

AO: You have achieved your main success with your wedding dress designs. How do you approach creating these gowns?

MB: I draw my wedding dress designs according to the personality of the woman who will wear them. I study her character in detail to determine which design will suit her best. I need to know whether she is shy or bold, her profession, and how she spends her daily life. This helps me create a piece that truly fits her.

There’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing the look of admiration and amazement in someone’s eyes when they wear a wedding dress I’ve designed.

AO: You have worked with many celebrities who wear your designs on the red carpet. Which aspects of design do you focus on?

MB: The legendary actress Yousra, whom I adore, is known for her elegance and beauty. She is very particular about the details in her designs. Likewise, actress Dorra is also very meticulous when choosing the details of her outfits.

AO: Whom do you admire from other fashion designers?

MB: I really admire the work of Elie Saab, a fellow Arab designer, and I also appreciate Dior fashion house. Dior is a brand that has maintained its timeless charm and appeal over the years.

 

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