Iqra & Zaynab- Interview

Iqra & Zaynab have caught everyone's attention in a small span of time. Their classic cuts, chic designs is what sets them apart. Gorgeous jumpsuits and palazzo pants that are a must have in every fashionista's wardrobe. 

Tell us a little about yourselves. Who are Iqra and Zaynab?
Basically Iqra & Zaynab are two 21 year old best friends who are currently studying English Literature and Marketing. Iqra happens to be the literary one, somehow managing to bring the poetic element within the designs whereas, Zaynab manages to target market, design and make strategies. This way together they make the perfect duo where one's quality helps the other.
How did you two merge? What`s the story behind the name "Iqra and Zaynab"
We were and are best friends, so you know how we merged together. After a recent visit to Turkey, Jumpsuits has been one thing we preferred to focus on for starters. As long as brand name is concerned, we realised it's best to keep the brand name original and simple. Iqra & Zaynab, that is who we are, so Iqra & Zaynab it is. 

When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer?
It was very fortuitous, we always had a thing for designing but we never thought of designing clothes for others, and one fine night while bbming, we thought about giving it a go and evaluate the response. If it's good, we'll continue and if not, so what, at least we gave it a try. It was out of sheer boredom, to be excrutiatingly honest but we're glad we gave it a go and here we are.
Who are some of your favorite designers?
Zuhair Murad on top of the list, Ellie Saab, Donatella Versace, and Valentino.
What's your favorite part about conceptualizing a design?
We just love how chaotic and how amusing conceptualizing a design can be. Sometimes we spend a minute on a design, and sometimes we take hours to finalize a design. The favourite part is that 'jinx moment' we experience, that's when we both are thinking of the same design, and say it loud exactly the same moment. One of us then has to shut up then due to jinx, long story.. Never mind!
How would you define your personal style? And How would you define the style your line exemplifies?
We really enjoy experimenting with the kind of material that one would term as 'too gaudy' and not even think of buying. It's like a challenge that we put forth ourselves and then we incorporate that material into our designs in a manner that outshines the design. We love to amalgamate our creativity and the material together to create fabulous attire. We allow our mind to go wild whilst designing, yet we're very keen to keep the element of sophistication entact.
Who are your inspirations?
Never thought of it, we do not have any inspirations. We are each other's own inspiration, we inspire each other and it's beautiul.

What are your favorite colors, fabrics, and patterns to work with and why?
We use fabric according to the season, but personally we think silk is a beautiful medium to work on. Apart from that, just as mentioned above, we love sequins and shiny material. We think that's our style statement. With colors, we are way too fascinated by shades of green, deep maroon and obviously black.
What advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers?
Come up with something that reflects originality, bring your personal element in your creation so it depicts your identity. Do not be afraid to play with colors or designs, if you bind yourself you a particular thing, you won't move forth and in order to do that, one must be dynamic. Be that! People will talk, copy you, and try to bring you down but always remember, you're better than that. Have a big heart. It will be frustrating to see people copying your every step, but always be happy that you inspire them, you're that good. Smile, and please remember, if your work gains recognization, remain humble. The moment you stiffen up, you're going down.
Where can readers find out more about you and your work?
Readers can find out more about us on our facebook page www.facebook.com/iqrazaynab . They can follow us on Tumblr (iqrazaynab) We are launching our website soon, and they can visit Fashion Avenue to buy our collection off the rack. We have stocked there for the time being.
What would you like to say about Le Spectra
Le spectra, just by the name we can see sounds pretty cool, and the site is even cooler. Love what they do, sending heaps of best wishes their way xx.

The dynamic duo-(L-R) Iqra and Zaynab