Designer Sara Naghedi shares her ultimate desire for her eponymous handbag brand.
Sara Naghedi is a multi-hyphenate. The Los Angeles-raised New Yorker is a successful handbag designer, a mother of three, and a sartorial fixture who’s passionate about igniting real change in the fashion industry. She executes the latter with NAGHEDI, the eponymous neoprene handbag brand she launched in 2016.
The decision to pursue her own venture stemmed from Naghedi’s experience working at a fast-fashion brand, and witnessing first-hand how harmful and wasteful seasonal fashion can be. For context, 92 million tons of textile waste are produced annually on a global scale, with that number estimated to reach 134 million tons by the end of 2030. The astonishing stats serve as fuel for Naghedi, whose designs are seasonless, handwoven, and cruelty-free. To put it simply, NAGHEDI delivers on a more intentional approach to fashion — one that’s timeless, durable, and good for the planet.
Since its inception, NAGHEDI has graduated from an exclusive direct-to-consumer brand, to one that’s made a splash at sought-after retail spaces like Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, and The Shop at Equinox.
The designer spoke to Equinox+ about her creative process, returning to “slow fashion,” and how she stays inspired every day.
Walk us through the aha moment that inspired you to venture out and design your own handbags.
“I toyed with the idea of shifting my design career away from fast fashion for some time. I wanted to work on something that would have more impact on the industry and more meaning personally. My aha moment happened while working with a neoprene sample for a separate project. I realized it’s a material that can be stylish while retaining its durability and versatility.”
How would you say your process differs now compared to how you approached a project pre-NAGHEDI?
“NAGHEDI is a creative extension of my personal style. Prior to NAGHEDI, there were many outside factors influencing my designs but my approach now is that if an idea doesn't feel right or if it doesn't fit my personal aesthetic, it doesn't make it into the line.”
Take us through your creative process. How do you keep things fresh in an industry that’s always evolving?
“NAGHEDI is rooted in the idea that timeless, durable products outlast trends. It all starts with the bestselling St. Barths Tote — the first bag I designed for the line — and our inspiration for everything that comes after. Seasonal colors and details keep our designs fresh, but at the end of the day we stay true to our brand ethos and stay away from passing trends.”
You’ve mentioned being inspired by both past and future generations. How have you stayed true to that?
“NAGHEDI was inspired, in large part, by having children. After my first baby was born, I realized just how important it is for us to be stewards for their future and future generations. From a fashion perspective, I looked back to my parents’ generation and noticed that the industry was much slower and fashion was more thoughtful; almost everyone had what we now refer to as just a ‘capsule collection.’ You bought a few pieces as needed and they lasted for years.”
Are there any unexpected places or things where you find inspiration when you’re creating?
“I love symmetry. I find it soothing. Living in New York, you will always find me looking up, and I always find inspiration in the skyline. The windows of the buildings seem to mirror the weave pattern in our bags.”
How do you overcome burnout?
“After many years in this hectic fashion industry I have learned to prioritize. My children, my family, and my own self-care are top priorities. I try to go to the gym, Pilates, or yoga a few times a week. I have found that when you take care of yourself first, you are better able to take care of the rest without burning out.”
What is your advice for those looking to boost their creativity and take their side hustle to the next level?
“The best advice I can give is to follow your intuition, and don't let anyone cause you to doubt yourself. I struggled with imposter syndrome for so many years. If you are on a path that doesn't feel right, change it, and keep in mind that success in creative fields doesn't have a direct path like many other careers — sometimes it's a winding road!”
What is your ultimate desire in work and life?
“I would love to see NAGHEDI viewed as a classic brand for many years to come, and for us as a company to innovate ways in which fashion can have a more positive impact on the planet.”
Photos Credit: Molly Zacher for NAGHEDI