Mastering the art at the age of only 12 years, Shadyan (or Sandy), an emerging talent in fashion design, granted a few hours from a very busy schedule to answer a few of our questions.
From a very young age Sandy was taking on projects for neighbors and friends who were awed by his passion for design. Becoming the ‘talk’ of the small island of Alifu Alifu Thohdoo where he was born for his exceptional skill in dress-making, Sandy realized early on that he had a lot more to offer.
“Since I can remember holding a scissor in my hand, I have loved fashion,” he said. “Fancy dresses on TV programs and songs brought the image in to my head so vividly I could actually identify the outlines needed to originate an outfit. It was among a small community in Thodhoo that I grew up. I wanted to show my talent and give bigger opportunities to people seeking fashion ideas. That’s how I ended up right here in the capital city, Male’.”
His biggest dream initially rested on having people recognize the name “Sandy”; specifically in identifying his designs and a hint of his style in all outfits. Now that he is on well on his way, Sandy is sure to have more tricks up his sleeve to surprise us.
“It has officially been 3 years since I’ve started doing this as a full-time job, right after finishing school. It’s been memorable and it has its challenges but most of all, it’s been the best thing that has happened to me.”
Although he has a knack for attending men’s wear as well, Sandy claims that he’s more passionate in designing lady wear.
“Given the beadwork requirements and the specific details that needs special attention leaves a lot of room for new ideas to be accommodated into one outfit,” he said. “It may look very simple on the outside, but undoubtedly a huge amount of work for the designer.”
Besides designing and sewing, Sandy is an extreme introvert.
“We don’t watch TV at home. My parents are extremely religious so we don’t listen to songs on the radio either. I’m not a gamer and I’ve only played one sport ever in my life,” he said.
Sandy goes on to state that he is not at all active on the social scene nor has he traveled far in his entire life.
“As supportive as my family is, I am very sheltered,” he said. “I haven’t been out on my own anywhere besides Hulhumale’. And that too very recently. I go out with my friends occasionally but cannot spend more than an hour, sitting at cafe’s and chit-chatting. It’s just not me. I am more prone to sitting at home, sewing or designing and making more productive use of the time I get. Time is extremely precious to me.”
Being the eldest in the family and juggling another daily job at VTV, Sandy claims that he would not be able to manage time if not for his Mum.
“A normal busy day at home would require all hands on deck to help out, excluding me,” Sandy explains. “Mom makes sure not to distract me from my sewing projects during a busy season. A sister or brother would replace me instead.”
Sandy claims that he has learned so much over the past few years since the official commencement of his work in 2011. Overcoming negativity over his gender and judged for the kind of work he does, Sandy has proved more than once that ‘personality is not defined by one’s work’.
“I’ve been downed, judged and it all brought me to one conclusion: that nothing good ever comes easy. Over time, I’ve seen people who appreciate me for what I do and value it.”
One of the people who believed in him, movie star Aami, brought an incredible change in his life as she donned on one of the most important works by Sandy, which was a turning point in his career.
He has also worked with Singer Ashfa for the music show Tharinge Rey where he was able to bring out a sense of ‘Sandy’s Style’ in his designs.
“She wanted something unique,” Sandy said. “I made the dress very spontaneous; scattered sequins with no particular arrangement. It looked simple on the surface, but required a lot of time and effort. She’s also very easy to work with, extremely polite and straightforward in her requirements, so that made the job much more easier.”
Sandy’s final words draw attention to respecting designers for who they are and trusting them to do their job. According to him, the satisfaction of the customer is top priority and patience is particularly necessary when dealing with every single client’s demands. Before closing up, he wanted to apologize to someone who went through a bad experience regarding a delivery.
“My work was done,” he said about the particular project. “The dress was complete except for a few final fittings but due to a busy schedule I had to have the garment delivered without my presence. Thus, the cause of distress for the client. It was a mistake on my part which I plan to never repeat. I take it as a learning experience. She would know who she is and I’d like to take this chance to just apologize to her sincerely from the bottom of my heart .”
Working hard and on his way up, Sandy is well on his way to thrill us even more with his future designs. We wish him all the best in his undoubtedly challenging path.