Hakima Al Said

“My collections are an artistic representation of the inspiration I find around me. The Wahiba sands of Oman inspire my latest collection, Wahiba.”

Words: José Berrocoso

Launched in 2018 by Hakima Al Said, ‘HAK THE LABEL’ beautifully fuses cultural symbolism with contemporary design. Finding inspiration from her international upbringing, in all of the many countries she has called home; Asia, the Middle East, South Africa and Europe, her work refines cultural symbolism, from the varied environments, into a singular aesthetic. Hakima creates truly unique pieces that are bold yet minimal, balanced with feminine and delicate details. A modern aesthetic informed by the ancient, honoring both beauty and heritage. From many points of reference and with inexhaustible passion and attention to detail, HAK THE LABEL offers original and essential adornments of impeccable style and substance for the discerning woman.

CityPages Magazine: For those not familiar with the brand, can you tell us what is HAK The Label? Hakima Al Said: HAK The Label is a jewellery brand dedicated to fusing cultural symbolism with contemporary design. The jewellery highlights a modern aesthetic while honouring both beauty and heritage.

CP: Why did you decide to get into jewellery design? HAS: Ever since a young age I have admired the jewellery that my mother and grandmother wore and the joy it brings. While working as a graphic designer for a jewellery brand in London, it opened my eyes to the possibility of designing my own line of jewellery and channelling my love for it.

CP: What is the best thing about your job? HAS: That I get to do what I love on a daily basis. It’s not always easy and there are plenty of challenges but I love creating so I can honestly say I love my job!

CP: Do you design jewellery with yourself in mind? HAS: Yes I do design pieces that I would like to wear while keeping in mind my clients and what they love. I like to create versatile pieces that allow women to wear it any way that suits their style.

CP: What is your favourite part of the creative process? HAS: Editing ideas and narrowing down the mood board then being happy with a design and signing it off.

CP: How would you describe your collections? HAS: My collections are an artistic representation of the inspiration I find around me. The Wahiba sands of Oman inspire my latest collection, Wahiba. Translating elements such as the desert moon and green date oasis through the use of moonstone and green Swarovski crystals are an example of how I like to fuse culture and art.

CP: Where do you get your inspiration? HAS: I have had the opportunity of calling Asia, Middle East, South Africa and Europe my home, which has inspired me to portray different elements from these places into jewellery pieces in an abstract way. CP: Do you ever run out of ideas? HAS: I wouldn’t say anyone runs out of ideas, you could have a creative block for a couple of days. So when that happens I just step away from my desk and go to the beach, be around nature, travel (when we could travel) and socialise. The mind just needs to be energized and refreshed every so often.

CP: How important are sustainable practices to you? HAS: Sustainability is important to me. I’m working on ways of incorporating more sustainable practices into my business. Currently I use silver as it is a recycled metal and I work with local artisans to keep my carbon footprint down.

CP: What was your biggest fear when starting HAK The Label? HAS: There weren't really any big fears but before I started I did question whether my designs would be understood. Navigating my own company for the first time also brought some challenges but I’m continuously learning which I love. I’m lucky enough to be doing something I enjoy and am passionate about.

CP: What do you want women to feel when wearing your jewellery? HAS: I want them to be able to freely express themselves, allowing them to feel strong and empowered.

CP: Who would you most like to see wearing your jewellery? HAS: FKA Twigs, I love how she wears jewellery.

CP: Do you have a most treasured item in your personal jewellery collection? HAS: An emerald ring from my grandmother is one of my most treasured pieces of jewellery as it makes me feel like she’s always with me. The Dhofar ring from my Wahiba Collection was inspired by this very piece.

CP: What’s next for HAK The Label? HAS: I have an exciting new launch happening early next year. I can’t share any other information about it yet but it’s something I’ve always wanted to do so I am looking forward to that!