Sheila Rasheed: Clothing Designer
Photo Credit: Complex Magazine
A friend of mine told me about an AMAZINGLY FAB designer who resides in Chicago Illinois named Sheila Rashid. Her clothes are interesting, innovative, beautiful, and fit a woman's body like a glove! I am honored to be able to share this exclusive interview with you all. Enjoy and make sure you check out her amazing clothing line!
The Fab Femme: When did you start designing clothes?
Sheila Rashid: I started designing clothes in high school senior year of 06 but then i was just designing hoodies and t shirts. About a couple years ago was when i wanted to really start sewing and putting things together from scratch. My first official launch of my S/S ’11 collection was on September 4th 2010.
TFF: Wow. You’ve got a huge buzz for someone who’s just breaking into the market! Tell us about the first piece of clothing you ever made.
Sheila: The first piece of clothing from scratch I made had to been like a simple dress two years ago.. I have definitely come a long way with my designs now. Since then I have made all patterns myself, no manufacturer yet.
TFF: Interesting. Where do you draw daily inspiration from for your clothing line?
Sheila: Im not the type to draw illustrations w/ color and backgrounds. I do a simple flat sketch of anything that pops into my head. I will say my inspiration comes from socialite women who aren’t afraid to step into the spotlight or be in the camera. Women of confidence and women who are daring.
TFF: Love it. Give us a litle tea about your Fall 2011 collection. What direction did you take while creating the line and how would you describe the look and feel of the pieces?
Sheila: For the next f/w 11 collection i am giving alot more details, geometric type edge. Strong shoulders, neutral colors. The same classy look more bold but simple.
TFF: Who are some of your favorite designers? Do you have any role models?
Sheila: Some of my fave designers are Chanel, Alexander Wang, Tom Ford and myself. My role model is Andy Warhol, if i had to pick one. He didn’t give a f*ck what anyone said.
TFF: Andy Warhol is amazing. Since your a designer and I’m a Lady Gaga fan I have to ask this question. How do you feel about her extravagant fashion choices?
Sheila: I think Lady Gaga is wearing what she loves. Her music is great and she is dope for not giving a fuck what anyone says lol.
TFF: Gaga definitely marches to the beat of her own drum. How do you see the fashion industry evolving within the next decade or so as far as Lesbian designers are concerned?
Sheila: Within the next decade I see the industry with more young designers and no rules, just greater fashion.
TFF: Where do you see your career in 5 years?
Sheila: In 5 years, I see Sheila Rashid having a flagship store, in Barneys, Nordstrom, etc. everywhere. On all the beautiful women who are socialites like Rihanna, models, etc. any lady who dares to look good. It is all happening.
