Published by Vanessa Brunner under Designers

Leila Hafzi first presented her ideas to the world at a show in Stavanger, Norway, in 1997.

Inspired by the hand work done by women’s groups during a trip to Nepal, Hafzi’s designs take root in the very country that inspired her so much. Among the first to break into the EcoFashion world, Hafzi introduced the idea of an eco-clothing line to the high end fashion industry.

Over the past decade, Hafzi has worked hard to create a network that represents the very best Nepal has to offer in tailoring and fabrics–and refashioning them into innovative and groundbreaking designs.

Her goal has always remained the same: To introduce and represent eco and ethical trade in the fashion industry, and to develop an entirely environmentally friendly production cycle.

That’s how Hafzi achieves her goals–she goes big, but she’s fueled by passion.

Green By Design was lucky enough to get in touch with this very talented, (and very busy! She’s opening her first store soon) designer.

Here are a few interview excerpts:

How did you first get involved in green fashion?

It came naturally during my trip to Nepal in 1997. I went to Kathmandu to gather the required background to apply for a fashion school in Denmark. Meeting people in this poor country and working with the underdeveloped women’s groups made me realize I could play an important role in product development, design and export/import to the western market. Little did I know that my path of just following my heart would be a huge international trend 10 years later.

What do you think is the most important thing consumers can take away from green fashion?

Fashion is a market where the consumer plays a very important role. I always say that they have the absolute power over what sells and not. On a basic level, it’s the stylists which has to shoot and print green fashion in the magazines to make the consumer aware of what’s in the market. But then the consumer can change the market by asking and demanding for these products. The buyers of the shops will follow the market demand.

What’s your favorite item in your closet right now?

Well, it depends on what I do…It’s very cold here in Norway now, and I am locked to my computer in a old organic cotton and nettle wrap, big handknitted cashmere socks and a lovely knitted cashmere wrap jacket…it’s very comfy! Outside I wear a long handloomed and embroidered coat made in Afghanistan by a local women’s group (NGO). If I’m off to present the brand, I’m fond of our little black fully handpleated pencil dress, which was made by my very best master tailor (He was kind enough to custom make it for for Madam Leila) with a vintage leather jacket from Pierre Moden Signature.

How do you feel about Hafzi’s emphasis on consumer demand? Perhaps it’s just as important for us to consider what we want as it is for designers to consider what they provide.

For more on Hafzi, please visit her website at www.leila-hafzi.com