S HAH RIAZ
“I believe a skirt is what truly distinguishes a woman’s look, and a tie polishes a man’s appearance.” Shah Riaz creates a classic and elegant fabric collection made to define a woman’s feminine nature, and compliment a man’s image. Shah’s unparalleled vision originates from the influence of his ten siblings, seven of whom were women. During his youth, he was surrounded by women’s fashion, and it formed his intuitive understanding of garment design. Shah’s innovative fashion sense is expressed through two gender-specific wardrobe staples: skirts and ties. Pencil skirts accentuate the mid contours of the female figure; clean, slender, and classy like the gestures of a glamorous woman – simple yet elegant. Skirts are made for women who desire a hint of elegance in their everyday attire. Shah revives the ladylike silhouette with versatile fabrics that accommodate every occasion: business engagements, office hours, and evening cocktails. It is the perfect attire for a sophisticated woman. Ties are a sleek, modern accessory for every man’s wardrobe. Fine quality and refined designs pair well with custom suits or casual wear, and showcase one’s individual taste. Fabric prints are stylish and vintage-inspired. Shah Riaz created the timeless pieces for men and women. Experience its eloquence. Made in Chicago. Fine quality. Luxurious.
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Photograph by Jonathan Zuluaga
here are you from? How would you define your city’s fashion?
Shah`s Skirts and Ties www.shahriaz.com
I was raised in Chicago and have lived here since I was 2 years old. I would define Chicago’s style as very comfortable and classic. It is not as spontaneous as New York or Los Angeles, but it has the essence of tradition. Give us an idea of your clothing designs. I design skirts and ties; one garment for each gender. They are both classic pieces that compliment a man’s look and flatter a women’s physique. Timeless pieces that everyone should own. When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion designer? I wanted to become a designer when I was 17 years old. After reading an article about a graffiti artist who was creating clothing pieces that were removable and versatile, it inspired me to create something in hand instead of drawing animation and figures like I had since I was 4 years old. Also, having seven sisters in my household growing up and seeing the quality of garments that interest them made me want to create a high quality product for my brand. When and what was the first article of clothing you ever designed? In 2005, I designed a wrap around skirt. It was size adjustable and it was a forest green with black embroidery. It was horrific, but well made. How long does it usually take you to construct a piece? It depends on which garment. The ties take 2-4 weeks and the skirts take 4-6 weeks. It all depends on the materials and working with the pattern to create the right look. Where can we buy your ties and skirts? Currently Hazel Boutique in Lincoln Square in Chicago carries the Fall Collection of skirts and ties. We’re also excited about a new high end artisanal store, ”I Love Chicago” opening in the International Terminal of O’Hare International Airport which will carry both garments as well. The collection will also be available on www.shahriaz.com soon. What do you believe makes a quality article of clothing? Craftsmanship with quality fabrics, zippers, buttons, and linings make a great garment for any gender. I believe in making garments locally to benefit the economy and to provide quality control. What’s your favorite part about conceptualizing a design? My favorite part is finding the right fabric. When I have the right fabric, I feel like I can make any garment. Where do you get your inspiration from? I get my inspiration from history. Paintings, photography, and unique individuals that I meet whether in a work environment or in public. What are some of your fashion goals? My goal in the next 5 years is to have high end boutiques in various cities and overseas carrying my skirts and ties. I also want to have my collections in high end department stores. Continuing to do fashion shows and collaborating with other artists and designers from around the world is something I would continue to do as well. What advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers? Save your money, invest your time, create something that you are passionate about and the rest will follow.
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