Speaks With The Asian Today About Her New Line
Inspired by her personal choice and aimed at modern women, BBC Asian Network radio host, Noreen Khan, has launched her fashion label. The DJ has been a budding fashion designer since a young age after setting up her own clothing boutique at the age of 21. She spoke to Hifzha Shaheen about her collection.
How did you get in to design?
I’ve always had a passion and interest in fashion which is why I set up my own boutique at 21. I think I got this appetite for fashion from my mum who is a really good seamstress and loves clothes! I then recently started working with bespoke designer Gaby Manchanda and together we sketched ideas and then decided to create Noreen Khan Couture!
Tell us about Noreen Khan Couture.
Noreen Khan Couture is a label for women who want to stand out from the crowd but at the same time look effortlessly sexy and feminine. We offer a made to measure service to ensure our customers get the perfect fit and feel confident in what they wear.
Tell us about your collection.
The collection has my personal style injected into it and includes a One Piece Lycra Sari Dress, Glam Churidar Pyjama Suit, Anarkali Dresses, Raw Silk Corset lengha and a Timeless Sari. Even though the collection has an Asian look and feel to it I want it to appeal to everyone and not just Asian women. For eg the Lycra Sari and Anarkali Dresses don’t have the traditional embroidery or fabrics usually used in Asian outfits. This first collection is also a bit of a teaser, there’s a lot more to come!
What was the inspiration behind it?
As I attend a lot of events and do hosting I found I was sometimes struggling to find outfits that I really liked. The more I searched for clothes and designers, the more it inspired me to create my own designs. Plus it was always an ambition of mine to launch my own label one day so I’m glad I’ve finally got round to doing it!
Who is your collection aimed at?
My collection is for the modern woman who wants to make a bit of a statement with her clothes.
You set up your clothing boutique at 21. Why did you decide to delay the national launch until now?
When I was 21 I had just started out and was learning about the industry. I then got so consumed with my pursuing my media career that I didn’t have time to do both. But now that I’m a bit more settled with my afternoon show which I’ve been doing for a few years I’ve managed to find time in the evenings to set up the label- it’s been hard work though doing both!
What is your ultimate aspiration?
For my label to be enjoyed and appreciated by women everywhere and to not be restricted to the Asian market. That would be a real achievement for me if I could make that happen.
What does fashion mean to you?
To me fashion is an absolute extension of you and your personality. You are what you wear!
See her collection at her official website: http://www.officialnoreenkhan.com/shop/
