Whatever makes me happy
Interview with fashion designer Sanaz Shirazi

April 24, 2007
iranian.com

As Iranians abroad continue to immerse themselves in all realms of business wolrdwide, a few have gone in the way of fashion. Like celebrity favorite Behnaz Sarafpour (BehnazSarafpour.com) or Manny and Neda Mashouf (founders of Bebe clothing, bebe.com), Iranian-born Sanaz Shirazi (SanazShirazi.com) is a budding apparel designer with a modern take on traditional asthetics. Below is an interview with the innovative artist, enjoy.

SK: Where were you born?

SS: Tehran, Iran.

Where do you currently live?

Based in Oslo Norway, and London UK.

When was the last time you were in Iran?

Last time I was in Iran was 2 years ago. I go to Iran to visit family and to get inspiration for my work.

What pulled you towards fashion?

The idea of creating something unique, while making your own trademark in the world. 

Were your parents supportive of your decision to go into Fashion?

I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in International Marketing and Business before I started as a designer, so it helped ;) I use my degree in my work all the time. My parents have always encouraged me to follow my heart and do whatever that makes me happy. They have taught me to become independent, and trust myself. They have given me the confidence to believe in myself and never give up on my ideas and dreams. It’s important to not limit yourself both on a personal and professional level, because that would stop you from progressing. Don’t let obstacles stop you from following your dreams.

Do you design and make everything yourself?

Yes, I design with my sister Tanaz, we do research, come up with new ideas, and then create our styles for the collection. It’s very creative but the business and marketing bit is quite time-consuming as well.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Traveling, people, history books, old movies, Persian culture and arts, nature...

What's your favorite Persian/Iranian dish?

Ghormeh-sabzi, joojeh-kabob, most dishes, and I do miss it all when my parents are away. But I m a great cook and can make pretty much most of the dishes ;)

Do you find it difficult to further your business as our heritage is constantly debased by the media?

I never see any of that, as a matter of fact I find it to be totally opposite. People love the fact that we are honest and proud of our heritage and that we use the history and culture of Iran in our work. The combination of Iran and growing up in Europe has made us see things differently and adjust to different people and cultures more easily. I believe that the combination of our background, personalities and hard work is the key to our success.

What is your favorite colour?

Brown, green, and basically nature colors, because it inspires me in my work.

Who has influenced you the most?

My Sister Tanaz, cool people I meet all over the world, especially in north Europe, and North America. In addition to actresses and movies from the past, my mother and her cool style from the 70s.

Do you speak, read and/or write Farsi?

Yes. I speak Farsi fluently. I also read and write in Farsi, as it has always been important to my parents for us to remember and appreciate our Persian background. I also went to school in Iran for 5 years and continued receiving lessons in Farsi even when I was going to school in Norway.

Where can one buy your pieces?

Shops in Europe, Scandinavia, events in US and Far East as well as online storefronts like CoutureCandy.com.

What's next on your plate?

Traveling to Iran for meetings and visiting factories for organic sheep fur. Attending events and selling to more shops, doing charitable work, promoting Sanaz Shirazi in the US.  We will keep designing and make the look complete. Traveling for more inspiration and keeping the creativity in motion, and as always living life to its fullest. ;) Comment