Whether it’s home decor, fashion apparel or accessories, the buzzword now is sustainability, something Dania Shinkar has made a brand mission. In addition to creating ethically crafted bags, the house helmed by Saudi designer Dania Shinkar stands out for another core brand value, offering experimental and explorative designs.
Shinkar, who launched her luxury, contemporary and eco-friendly namesake brand in 2019, ensures sustainability is implemented through applying waste reduction and using ethically sourced leathers and recycled materials. Her Saudi/Ireland-based brand also joins forces with digital leather printing partners that produce eco-sustainable prints in line with ecological certifications. The prints are produced using water-based ecological ink with recyclable cartridge and a printer with high-energy efficiency.
Seen on celebrities like Kelli O'Hara and Sara Sampaio, Shinkar’s eye-catching pieces are made from high quality and top grain Italian leathers. And whether it’s smooth calfskin, suede or croc-embossed calfskin leather, they are all crafted by skilled Italian artisans. In fact, everything in nature lover Shinkar’s bags are made in Italy, including the hardware, lining and the handmade signature handles, made from cellulose acetate, a natural and renewable material.
Indeed Shinkar, who is largely inspired by art, architecture and vintage design is making waves with her distinct metal frames and curved handles, seen on pieces like “The Wristlet” clutch. The young and passionate designer’s unexpected details, unconventional shapes and eccentric accents, with a hint of Art Deco, all help turn those functional accessories into playful objects d’artes. From standout colours like red or sky blue, to a more subdued gray or brown, the bags are infused with features like lizard detailing that attract the confident, bold and stylish woman.
Shinkar, an ardent Judith Leiber fan, is known for her enduring zeal for designing, which is surely a main factor linked to her brand’s growth and success. After graduating with a BA from London College of Fashion with a specialisation in Fashion Textile Print Design, she pursued her master's studies in Fashion Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the same esteemed institute. A need to explore a different and completely new area in fashion led her to take an intensive course in bag design, also at London College of Fashion. A newfound love was born, one that allowed her to use her expertise in textiles. Finding a niche in the Saudi market, Shinkar wasted little time in launching her eponymous bag brand.
