Zakiyyah is designing up a storm

UNTOLD BEAUTY: Ear crawlers and bracelets by designer Zakiyyah Smailovic. Picture: Dayle Joubert

UNTOLD BEAUTY: Ear crawlers and bracelets by designer Zakiyyah Smailovic. Picture: Dayle Joubert

Published May 25, 2016

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Cape Town - When it comes to accessorising, simple and elegant is often best.

A few dainty rings and delicate neck pieces is all you need to add glamour. Statement jewellery such as midi rings, ear crawlers and bracelets are trending.

We speak to Cape Town jewellery designer Zakiyyah Smailovic, the creative director of accessories brand House of ZS, on her business and the hottest trends.

 

How did you get into jewellery design?

I worked in the investment industry for some time and I was fascinated by departments that would auction rare collectable precious jewellery and art.

I resigned to travel the Mediterranean where I met an old woman who was talented in beading, selling her craft near the Marina Yacht Club on the south coast of Turkey.

I knew there was something special about this encounter. I discussed my ideas with her and she agreed to make jewellery for me.

I bought all I could with my savings and I brought the product line to an international market. My endeavour proved successful.

Unfortunately, on my return to South Africa, I lost contact with her. I travelled to Istanbul to learn about jewellery design. Pursuing my new passion - I hired a team of skilled jewellers to start a collection of Mediterranean Luxe aesthetic.

 

What was the first piece of jewellery you made?

It was a Hamsa Hand pendant, an ancient symbol and talisman that is said to invite blessings. It was crafted from 925 sterling silver plated in gold and embedded with high quality crystals.

 

How do you approach a new collection?

I am fortunate enough to travel frequently and I get to see the latest fashion worldwide.

My first collection - From Turkey with love - was inspired by my travels through Turkey. My designs stemmed from ancient historical symbols due to my long hours of research into Greek mythology, Turkish history and religions.

My second collection focused on unlocking beauty and enhancing femininity through elegant designs.

 

What inspired your latest collection?

My latest collection was inspired by Mediterranean luxury - those endless summer nights, sun-kissed skin, starlight reflecting off the aqua seas...

The collection consists of long body pendants, sparkling ear cuffs and statement, uniquely-crafted rings. All the pieces are made from precious metals, ancient eroded and polished Mediterranean sea glass and high quality crystals. I wanted to make it accessible to women worldwide via online shopping so those who have not had the chance to travel can experience it by wearing designs crafted for them.

 

Do your pieces have a theme or underlying idea?

Each piece is created bearing a personalised message with a purpose to uplift and motivate the wearer. Our mission is to empower women around the globe, one sparkling piece at a time, as a reminder to be fearless, to dream and be optimistic.

 

What are the hottest trends at the moment?

The latest trends in the US, Europe and Australia are long delicate body chains, ear crawlers and flashy rings which we stock online under the Mediterranean Luxe collection.

 

What is the most challenging part of owning your own accessories line?

There are not many challenging areas as I am passionate about what I do. The biggest challenge was when an ex-employee stole my designs and rebranded them as her own, after my team and I had worked for months on the collection.

Intellectual property theft and commercial espionage is something happening often in Cape Town. The lack of originality is shocking. To steal ideas is an unethical and an unlawful action that some feel they can get away with. Many designers deal with this at some stage in their career.

The experience taught me that someone may steal your ideas, but they can never steal your vision.

 

What is it like creating a jewellery line?

Creating a jewellery line and owning an accessory brand that is stocked in upmarket boutiques is not as fancy and glamorous as it seems. Many people don’t see behind the scenes- working late nights, over weekends and during the festive season, as well as the lack of a social life. A lot of pressure comes with it.

 

If you could choose one fashion designer to collaborate with, who would it be?

I am all about supporting our local talent. I recently collaborated with well-known designer and stylist Maxine Benatar, who owns the Maxi B collection, for the House of ZS’s international campaign. I love her elegant, unique gowns and working together.

Two of my favourite designers I would love to collaborate with is Kluk CGDT and Warrick Gautier atelier. Their work is original and inspirational, with that classy, edgy finish.

 

Who do you envision wearing your work?

Women from all walks of life and different cultures. Those who are proud of their femininity and who value unique design and craftsmanship.

Those women who wear jewellery with a sense of off-handed elegance, who have a sense of tradition but like to go their own way.

 

Any last words?

My collections are available on our online store, which is an easy and convenient shopping experience for working women who sometimes don’t have the time to spend in malls. The collection is stocked in the Jin Jin jewellery boutique in Constantia Village, and we will be launching in Joburg next month and in other independently owned boutiques nationwide. We are planning on launching at the V&A Waterfront soon.

Visit House of ZS at www.houseofzs.com or on Instagram: House Of ZS.

Cape Argus

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