Chafai began with a basic line of clutches and jewelry based on Ceem’s artistic calligrams — pictures created from calligraphy. Her visual renderings caught on fashion fire, and before the girls knew it, they were getting dozens of orders.
The jewelry is available for all budgets — from simple cuffs in silver and earrings plated in 18k gold to ornate pure gold pendants decorated in diamonds. The bags integrate the calligrams as a form of matchless ornamentation that give each piece an extra dose of exclusivity and panache.
Their vision is to create an exclusive line of handbags and accessories that fuse an array of styles into one aesthetic. These internationally unique pieces are coveted by women of all ages, who crave the bold compositions of leather and exotic skins from Istanbul and Milan with the vintage trimmings found in the souks of Beirut and Paris.
“I love bags!” announces Farah. “Your bag can really make or break your outfit; it’s what makes you stand out from all the others.”
If it is individuality you want, with Chafai, you’ll get it. Most of the pieces are conservative in shape, highlighting leathers and embellishments. Rare, semi-precious stones, old coins and embroidered badges are utilized for additional flair.
Farah admits that most of the inspiration for their designs comes from mainstream fashion. “We follow the market and look at the trends,” explains Farah. “We utilize the colors of the seasons.”
The requests for pieces incorporating the customized calligraphy that made Chafai popular in the first place, has taken an interesting turn. “We’re getting a lot of ‘mommy-and-me’ pair orders, which require mini-versions of the adult version,” reveals Farah. A great gift idea, the personalized accessories are sure to make that special person feel even more so.
In addition to their range of bespoke pieces, Chafai has expanded to include totes, evening bags, belts and even more jewelry accessories. Farah is hopeful to add her much anticipated footwear line in the next few years.
Chafai is quickly spreading throughout the Middle East. It is available at a number of specialty boutiques — from Posh Boutique in Saifi Village, Beirut, to Sawani Department Store in Red Sea Mall, Jeddah.
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