designer q+a | Nyla Noor | Mercat Messenger Bag

words_dena rochelle

I love a bag that is versatile + chic. This slim beauty is convertible, making it an excellent choice for a variety of occasions. Here’s what designer Romaana Zia has to say about this cool design that she created with her partner + sister Saifra:

Dena ~ What inspired this design?

Romaana ~ “Our signature bag, the Mercat, was a bag that we designed for the woman that has a demanding schedule and a busy lifestyle. The bag converts into five different ways to wear it, which is ideal when you want to go from day to night. Whatever your mood, this bag will adjust to your lifestyle. The bag can be worn as a crossbody or shoulder bag and can be kept open to be worn as a full sized bag, or folded over to carry just your essentials. The removable strap allows you to also wear it as a clutch.

“While each collection may develop through various inspirations, such as art, travel or architecture, there is a constant element that you will see in past and future collections—the signature wave design, which is incorporated into each silhouette, is a symbol for finding balance amid the highs and lows of work and life. It also serves as the brands trademark, which is instantaneously recognizable as a Nyla Noor original.”

Dena ~ Why do you love what you do?

Romaana ~ “We’re living out our dreams. Our mission is to create luxurious accessories for the modern woman who aspires to achieve a life of balance. She does this with an inner strength and fearless spirit. Saifra and I come from a long family lineage of entrepreneurs and bankers. We were both satisfied with our career related success, but wanted more than just spending our lives behind our desks. We wanted to look forward to a future that was more balanced and includes marriage, children and most of all, personal growth. The company was named after the daughters Saifra and I one-day dream to have; our future, our reason for seeking balance, so that one day we can look back and know we took the leap of faith to become successful not only on a professional level but on a personal one as well.”

Dena ~ What’s in your bag?

Romaana ~ “iPhone and headphones, wallet, keys, business cards, cosmetics bag, sunglasses, mini measuring tape (it’s truly incredible how often we end up breaking this out while working!), hand cream, the latest edition of Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), a Nyla Noor purse hook.

Dena ~ Will the Mercat style be available in new colors/fabrics for fall 2011?

Romaana ~ “Yes! The Mercat has become our signature silhouette and will be coming back for AW11 in all leather variations. We decided to take on a moodier color palate for the season, so expect to see soft leathers and rich colors.”

 

This entry was posted on Wednesday, June 22nd, 2011 at 6:29 pm. It is filed under fashion, handbag haven. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.