Interview with Sara Milan: Be gorgeous, yet modest!
When it comes to shoes, bags and clothes, Muslimah or not, we will always band together in the name of finding the perfect top/skirt/pants or shoes. Hijabis are no different. So many fashionable and stylish hijabis have been featured for having great fashion sense that complies with our obligations towards modesty and naturally, they inspire other hijabis to do the same.
Some of you might have a little trouble finding designs that both cover our ‘aurah and are fashionable. Well, stop sighing about which basic long sleeve you’re going to have to wear under that beautiful sheer maxi dress. We’ve got just the thing for you!
The name Sara Milan has been all over Facebook recently. It features dresses, skirts and tops that are muslimah-friendly. Muzlimbuzz managed to get an interview with Ms Saliza Ramilan, the gorgeous woman behind the success.
[box_light]1. Tell us and our readers about yourself. [/box_light]
My name is Saliza Ramilan, 46 years old. Mom of 4. Hold a Diploma in Fashion Design in 1986. Worked as a Costumier in a theatrical company and in several boutiques as a Fashion Consultant and Designer and upon which, taking it as a Freelancer due to family commitments and taking care of children.
[box_light]2. How did Sara Milan come about?[/box_light]Sara Milan was born on 2 May 2010. The name, as it is, taken from combination of my name and late dad’s.
I was inspired and driven to this business as there was a need to generate income as my husband was stricken by stroke in late 2008. He was unable to get back to work and he gave me the support and motivation to start. Without having much savings and capital, I decided to market my designs and ready-to-wear apparels (outsource) on Facebook.
Having the knowledge and experience in Marketing and Sales, I managed to draw the customers’ attention by purchasing the items online and having to deliver them via registered postage. Alhamdullilah, I have good responses from them and had my first Fashion Show in April 2011. The response was overwhelming and all my 7 Exclusive designs were sold.
[box_light]3. Tell us more about the designs.[/box_light]
The range of designs are from casual, office wear, evening and bridal. I get inspirations from famous Designers like Chanel, Laura Ashley, Chloe and Givenchy. From famous designers like them, I will add to them my own inspirations and also something that are suitable for our locals and also as a Muslimah. I love to be able to create something different for the Muslimahs here to be unique and at the same time keeping the modesty.
[box_light]4. What is your fashion philosophy?[/box_light]
Be Gorgeous yet Modest.
[box_light]5. What’s in store for Sara Milan this year?[/box_light]
Alhamdullilah, I am the official Exclusive Online Reseller for Sophia Jennah, UK. The collections are available at the Studio for customers who would love to see, try and purchase.
Insha’Allah, there will be Fashion show from these designs, in June. I am starting to design the collections for Eid that will be up for sale by July, insha’Allah.
[box_light]6. The best part. Any discounts for Muzlimbuzz readers?[/box_light]
For Muzlimbuzz readers, for purchase of $100 and above (for Sophia Jennah’s label) will be given 30% off for Spa Treatment in Reena Beauty Spa.For viewing of collections, please contact me at 90284809 for appointment.
[box_light]7. There are alot of aspiring young people out there wanting to set up their own businesses. Any advice for them?[/box_light]
For people who are keen to start a business on your own, apart from having some cash, the first thing you should have is passion. Secondly, willingness to commit yourself fully.
Thirdly, have knowledge in sales and marketing and be able to interact with people from all levels. Forth, willing to accept criticism/feedbacks as part of your motivation to change or review your products.
Fifth, must be consistent in setting your sales goal and target. Last but not least, keep making Du’a as you need Allah to guide you from the start and always be truthful, sincere and honest in whatever transaction that you do. And keep smiling to customers as part of your services and sadaqah!
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Do remember to check Sara Milan’s page out. Have fun choosing those oufits you’ve put together in your mind but remember: Muslimah first, fashionista second.
Also, Sara Milan will be participating in L.A.C.E II – The Fashion Show 2012. The show will feature various fashion designers, from Muslimah apparels to shawls to pins. Some participating designers and exhibitors include Lulu alHaddad, Qamra Couture, Nerlie and others. The show is happening on June 12th 2012 so get your tickets before they sell out!
As put by Ms Saliza: “Be gorgeous yet modest!”
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Radhiatul Mardhiyah Mustaffa
Mardhiyah graduated from Temasek Polytechnic with a Diploma in Applied Food Science and Nutrition. She’s an aspiring writer trying to find peace and serenity that comes solely from feeling Allah’s love.