Hijabtrendz recently put together a Q&A with Brooke Samad, the designer behind Maraboo Fashion. She inspires us with her determination to make a difference in the fashion industry.
Do you see yourself as an “Islamic Fashion” designer, or just a fashion designer? Is there a difference?
I see myself as a fashion designer who happens to be Muslim. I don’t really consider myself an “Islamic” fashion designer because none of my designs are intended exclusively for Muslims. All of my designs are mainstream enough to be worn by any woman regardless of her faith. That being said, being a Muslim does impact my designs. I am always looking at clothes through the Muslimah perspective – would I wear that? Is the fabric too clingy? Is that skirt tailored in the right places to make it comfortable for a modest woman to feel comfortable wearing it?
Above: A shirt from the Maraboo fashion line.
What made you start to design clothing that appeals to Muslim women?
Offering stylish options to Muslim women is something I felt passionate about. I remember feeling like I had no idea how to dress once I became Muslim. I wanted to maintain my identity as a stylish woman while not compromising my religious values. I thought it would be nice to provide a one-stop shopping outlet for Muslimahs where you know the clothes will be stylish yet you never have to check for slits in the skirts or worry that the shirts in the summer will be sleeveless.
Who are your primary customers, Muslims, non-Muslims?
While the majority are Muslim, we do have a mix of customers from various religious backgrounds. Out of our online Muslim customer base, I would say at least 50% are new Muslimahs which is really nice to see.
What does the name Maraboo mean?
It was a part of my email address and morphed into a nickname.
How did you get your start in fashion and why did you decide to take that route?
Originally I was working in the corporate world, doing something completely uncreative. I started itching to do something artistic. I had always loved designing and sewing as a teenager so I decided to go back to design school.
Above: Another Maraboo design.
Where are you based out of?
New Jersey
Are there any current designers that you admire?
I admire the work of Carolina Herrera, Phillip Lim and Muccia Prada. I tend to like very simple, clean and well tailored clothing.
Why is it so hard for Muslim women to find clothing that looks stylish and yet still fits within Islamic dress requirements?
It is difficult! Unfortunately, I think in today’s society there is a big emphasis on women always looking “sexy.” I think it’s more important for women to look professional in their places of work and for them to feel comfortable and confident when they are at home or at school, etc. I hear from a lot of non-Muslim women that they are fed up with the clothing options in mainstream stores and many admire the modest Islamic dress code.
Where can we find/buy the clothing you design?
Our clothing is available online and we usually have a retail booth at both the ISNA and ICNA conventions.
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