Here at Buro HQ, there’s nothing we love more than new collections by emerging regional designers and brands. One name, Katrine Hanna, has just popped up on our radar and whilst still in its infancy, the eponymous label has already garnered success since its launch in 2017.
The Australian-born, Dubai-based footwear designer behind her namesake brand has officially partnered up with Level Shoes for the release of her Spring/Summer ’18 collection.
With several styles handmade in Italy, Katrine Hanna’s designs are finished with intricate details on traditional styles with inspirations drawn from the unique flora of Australia.
With mentorships with Alexander Wang and Rupert Sanderson under her belt, the designer is one to add to your must-know list. Here, find out what Katrine had to say about her brand as she shares her design ethos exclusively with us…
What is your design ethos?
My design ethos is to transform women into an allegory of fantastical nature. I am largely inspired by the juxtaposition of the surreal and real, that is the fantastical and natural world. I express this through the use of unique material combinations and silhouettes. The craft and art of shoemaking and production are very important to me and for this reason, I produce in Italy as they are the master craftsmen of shoes.
My first collection is inspired by the unknown world of Australian flora. I have translated elements of their botanical makeup through embroidery details. What is particularly unique is the Banksia heel. The Banksia grows on a tree as a yellow flower that eventually dries up into a nut, like a pinecone. It is then handpicked from the Australian bush and carved into a heel with an exotic pattern. This has not been done before and each pair is unique to the wearer.
Why did you decide to launch the brand in the Middle East?
I grew up in Dubai. I’m half-Lebanese and half-Australian. I decided to come back to the booming fashion and design hub because I wanted to be part of the growth just as I was when growing up. Dubai is constantly changing and striving to break boundaries and I see that as something I also strive for. There is a strong community feel in Dubai. People are very supportive which makes it a great environment to be in as a young designer.
Discover Katrine Hanna’s footwear collection here…
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Katrine Hanna is now available at Level Shoes in The Dubai Mall or on levelshoes.com.
Also, discover another celebrity-favourite designer, whose collections are exclusively available in the region, courtesy of Level Shoes.
