I focus on creating collections that tell a story
In a relatively short span, the Szabo Sihag has transformed from a mere concept conceived during a leisurely park stroll into a global brand. Inspired by Indian craftsmanship and heritage, Szabo Sihag aims to provide experimental silhouettes and unique designs. Speaking to Fibre2Fashion, CEO and Creative Director of the brand Meghna Sihag shares her journey on how she has materialised her desire by turning her passion into a business of her everyday life, based on a solid foundation.
Can you provide a brief overview of the founding story of Szabo Sihag?
Szabo Sihag, a designer brand, was founded in 2019 by Krisztian Szabo and me. It has since established itself as a luxury clothing brand based in the vibrant city of London. The inspiration behind our brand stems from traditional Indian wear, particularly the graceful draping of sarees and voluminous ghagras. My dream of becoming a fashion designer and owning a brand traces back to my late childhood. During my studies in London, fate led me to Krisztian (Szabo). While casually envisioning a clothing brand during a stroll through a London park, we conceived the idea of seamlessly blending Indian heritage with contemporary fashion. This shared vision ignited the journey of Szabo Sihag, where we aim to infuse the richness of Indian roots with the sophistication of London's fashion scene, creating a distinctive and culturally infused clothing brand.
Where did you draw the inspiration from for the inception of your brand?
Since I was a 12-year-old girl, I harboured a dream of becoming a fashion designer and owning my brand. My inspiration sprouted from the remarkable women in my life, especially my ambitious and supportive mother.
How would you describe your brand's aesthetic and design philosophy?
Szabo Sihag is a blend of Indian heritage and contemporary fashion, deriving inspiration from traditional Indian wear, especially the draping of sarees and voluminous ghagras. Our design philosophy is rooted in creating clothing that captures the grace and beauty of Indian culture while infusing a modern twist. Every piece is meticulously crafted with an exotic and playful aesthetic, offering a unique perspective on the richness of India's cultural tapestry. Through our collection, we aim to express a sense of empowerment, individuality, and confidence. We want women to feel comfortable in their own skin and embrace their unique identity. Each piece is designed not just as an outfit but as a form of self-expression, telling a story and allowing the wearer to connect with their inner self. We strive to create fashion that goes beyond trends, focusing on timeless style that reflects the wearer's personality and makes them feel empowered and authentic.
Can you describe how has your unique path to fashion shaped your perspective on the industry?
My unique path to fashion, rooted in a small town and inspired by personal experiences, has shaped my perspective in profound ways. It has instilled in me a deep appreciation for individual stories and diverse backgrounds. This perspective influences my designs, emphasising the importance of authenticity and personal expression. Additionally, coming from a place less exposed to the mainstream fashion scene has fuelled my drive to break traditional moulds and bring a fresh, unique voice to the industry. The journey has taught me that innovation often lies in embracing one's uniqueness and celebrating the richness of diverse narratives.
You seem to create designs that are different from the preceding ones yet unique. Could you explain how you draw inspiration from your cultural and artistic influences to design your diverse collections?
Drawing inspiration from my cultural roots is a central aspect of my design process. The rich tapestry of Indian culture, with its vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and diverse traditions, serves as an infinite source of creative influence. Whether it is the craftsmanship of traditional textiles, the symbolism in indigenous art, or the stories embedded in cultural practices, I aim to infuse these elements into my collections.
Each design is a narrative that pays homage to the heritage and aesthetics that shaped me. From the vivid hues of festivals to the timeless elegance of traditional attire, my cultural influences provide a unique palette for creativity. Moreover, I strive to ensure that each collection tells a distinct story, capturing the essence of cultural narratives while presenting a fresh perspective that evolves with each design iteration.
We see that your brand has a strong online presence, be it on social media or your own online store. Do the online platforms play a central role in shaping your brand?
Absolutely, online platforms play a core and transformative role in shaping our brand. They serve as dynamic spaces for connecting with our audience, sharing our story, and showcasing our designs to a global audience. Social media platforms, in particular, offer an interactive and immediate way to engage with our community, receive feedback, and stay attuned to evolving trends and preferences. Our online store serves as a direct channel for customers to explore and purchase our creations, providing a seamless and accessible shopping experience. The online landscape allows us to reach diverse demographics, transcend geographical boundaries, and adapt swiftly to changing market dynamics. In essence, our brand's online presence is integral to its visibility, accessibility, and the ongoing dialogue with our valued audience.
How does social media platforms give your brand more space to express your unique creativity?
Social media platforms offer an expansive canvas for expressing our unique creativity. These platforms provide a dynamic space to showcase not just the final products but also the creative process, inspirations, and the stories behind each collection. From visually striking images to engaging with our audience through stories and posts, social media allows us to convey the essence of our brand and its distinct creative identity.
Moreover, the interactive nature of social media fosters a direct connection with our audience. It enables real-time feedback, encourages conversations, and creates a community around our brand. This direct engagement helps in understanding our audience better, adapting to their preferences, and continuously evolving our creative expressions. In essence, social media is a powerful tool that amplifies our brand's voice, allowing us to share our unique creativity with a global audience.
Can you tell us how Szabo Sihag was able to navigate the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic? What were the challenges and opportunities the brand faced in the context of the pandemic?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Szabo Sihag faced unprecedented challenges that compelled us to adapt and innovate. With the halt in normal operations, working on a new collection became particularly challenging. However, in the face of adversity, our brand embraced problem-solving as a fundamental approach. We swiftly transitioned to remote work, leveraging technology to maintain collaboration and creativity among the team. Surprisingly, this period turned into an opportunity for growth. Despite the constraints, Szabo Sihag not only completed one but two collections during the pandemic. This experience emphasised the importance of resilience and the ability to find solutions in challenging times. It underscored my brand's capacity to adapt to unexpected circumstances, demonstrating that creativity and determination can thrive even in the most uncertain environments. The lessons learned during this period continue to shape Szabo Sihag's approach, emphasising agility and perseverance as essential elements in navigating the complexities of the fashion industry.
The fashion industry of today is significantly different from yesteryears and tomorrows. How were you able to create a successful business around your timeless collections?
While design remains integral, adapting to the evolving landscape of the fashion industry demanded a keen understanding of business dynamics. I focused on strategic brand positioning, embracing technology for a robust online presence, and cultivating a sustainable ethos. By incorporating efficient supply chain management and exploring healthy collaborations, I aimed to broaden my brand’s reach. Additionally, responsiveness to changing consumer behaviours and a commitment to transparency played pivotal roles in building a successful business around my collections. The ability to balance creative vision with business acumen has been instrumental in navigating the contemporary challenges of the fashion industry.
Do you think young fashion designers have to also be a good businessman to be successful in this competitive industry?
Yes, in the contemporary fashion landscape, a good business knowledge is increasingly essential for young fashion designers aiming for success. While creative talent remains paramount, understanding the business side of the industry is crucial. This includes aspects such as branding, marketing, financial management, and navigating the complexities of supply chains. A strong business acumen enables designers to not only create amazing collections but also effectively position and sell their creations in the market. Embracing technology, staying updated on industry trends, and cultivating a strategic approach contribute to a designer's ability to thrive in the competitive and everchanging fashion industry.
How are you able to express your unique creativity to stand out from the other fashion designers?
To stand out, I focus on creating collections that tell a story, reflecting my personal experiences and cultural influences. By infusing my designs with a blend of modern elegance and traditional elements, I aim to offer a fresh perspective that sets my work apart.
Moreover, I prioritise innovation in design techniques, fabric choices, and sustainable practices. Experimenting with unconventional materials contribute to a signature style that captures attention.
I strive to stay true to my creative vision while remaining adaptable to the industry.
In such a competitive landscape, how does Szabo Sihag navigate the balance between staying true to its unique creative identity and adapting to the changing fashion trends?
Our brand maintains a strong commitment to its cultural influences, personal narratives, and innovative design techniques, ensuring a distinct and recognisable aesthetic. At the same time, Szabo Sihag remains agile and responsive to evolving industry trends in our adaptive strategy.
This involves continuous research, staying updated on emerging styles, and incorporating elements that resonate with contemporary tastes. My brand's ability to blend timeless elegance with current trends allows it to appeal to a broad audience while maintaining its individuality.
What is your vision for your brand in 2030?
I aspire for Szabo Sihag to be a leading force in the fashion industry, known not only for its distinctive designs but also for its commitment to ethical practices and environmental responsibility.
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