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sahra bukhari

Fashion Institute of Technology

I am a textile surface designer with a strong passion for creating innovative and expressive prints. I graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology, where I developed a solid foundation in design, color theory, and textile applications. Currently, I am pursuing an associate degree in Fashion Business at Houston Community College and F.I.T to expand my understanding of the industry from both creative and commercial perspectives. My work focuses on designing unique textile prints alongside fashion design, allowing me to bring concepts to life from surface to silhouette. I am deeply enthusiastic about contributing my creativity and skills to this company and am excited about the opportunity to grow, collaborate, and make a meaningful impact.

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Textile Sabiha: Reflections of Light

Category: Interior

Competitions: Home Competition 2026

Sabiha: Reflections of Light Sabiha: Reflections of Light is a contemporary embroidered textile artwork created in memory of my late mother, Sabiha, an interior decorator whose creativity, eye for beauty, and love of handcrafted spaces inspired my own artistic journey. Through her, I learned that interiors are not just designed they are felt, remembered, and lived in. Drawing on the rich tradition of Pakistani shisha (mirror) embroidery, the piece is handcrafted using natural linen, cotton, hemp, silk threads, and glass mirrors. Each mirror symbolizes a cherished memory and reflects the light, warmth, and enduring influence my mother brought into the lives of those around her. Designed as a lasting heirloom rather than a disposable object, the textile celebrates sustainable craftsmanship, repairability, and cultural heritage. It honors both my mother’s legacy and the timeless value of creating meaningful objects that can be treasured and passed from one generation to the next. Sustainability highlights * 🌿 100% natural fibres: linen, cotton, silk, hemp, and bamboo. * ♻️ Repairable by design: damaged mirrors or stitches can be individually replaced without discarding the entire piece. * 🪡 Handcrafted construction: no synthetic laminates or permanent adhesives required. * 🌍 Biodegradable components: all textile elements are biodegradable; the glass mirrors can be removed and reused or recycled. * 🧵 Designed for longevity: intended as an heirloom-quality textile that can be repaired, repurposed, and passed down through generations. Approximate dimensions (from your concept board) * Overall size: 120 cm (W) × 180 cm (H) * Hanging rod: Bamboo or oak, extending slightly beyond the textile width * Fringe length: Approximately 15–20 cm Materials used: Component Material Purpose Base fabric Handwoven undyed linen Primary textile foundation Embroidery thread Organic cotton thread Main embroidery and mirror attachment Accent thread Natural silk thread Fine detailing and highlights Decorative fibre Hemp cord Structural embroidery and hanging loops Fringe Hand-knotted cotton cord Bottom decorative finish Mirrors Hand-cut glass shisha mirrors (various sizes) Reflective embellishment and symbolic focal points Hanging rod Bamboo or FSC-certified oak dowel Supports the textile as wall art Hanging cord Braided hemp rope Suspension from the wall Natural dyes Indigo, madder root, walnut husk, pomegranate rind, onion skin Earth-derived color palette Reinforcement Linen interfacing or an additional linen backing Adds durability while remaining natural Edge finish Hand-stitched linen binding Prevents fraying and

The Hands Behind the Bloom “Naqsh”

Category: Apparel

Competitions: Fashion Competition 2026

The Hands Behind the Bloom “Naqsh” is more than a fashion design. It is a visual story of my Pakistani heritage, family roots, and cultural identity. Inspired by the handmade embroidery traditions passed down through generations of women in villages across Pakistan, this project reflects the beauty, resilience, and artistry found in our culture. As a Pakistani American, I wanted to share the influence of my mother, grandparents, and the women artisans whose hands create these intricate patterns with patience and care. Every stitch, mirror, thread, and color represents memory, tradition, and storytelling. Many Pakistani women in rural villages create extraordinary, handcrafted work despite having little or no formal education. Their skills are learned through generations within families and communities, where embroidery, weaving, and textile art become a language of heritage and survival. These women spend countless hours creating detailed handmade pieces, yet their talent often remains unseen and undervalued outside their communities. Through Naqsh, I want their craftsmanship, dedication, and artistic intelligence to be recognized and appreciated globally. This design celebrates not only traditional Sindhi embroidery but also the strength of women who preserve culture through handmade work. By combining heritage craftsmanship with contemporary fashion, the project promotes sustainability, supports artisan communities, and gives visibility to the women behind the art ensuring their stories, skills, and cultural legacy continue to live on through design.

Feathered Armor

Category: Accessories

Competitions: Fashion Competition 2026

This design is a celebration of strength, femininity, and architectural beauty. Inspired by the natural layering of feathers, I sculpted a bold silhouette that empowers the wearer. The structured shoulders create a sense of protection and presence, while the soft U-neckline balances it with elegance and grace. Paired with fluid, shimmering pants, the look brings together power and fluidity, making a statement that is both fearless and refined. I designed this piece to embody the duality of modern femininity strong yet graceful, commanding yet soft. The top is crafted from hand-layered leather feathers, each cut and placed to create movement, texture, and dimension. The exaggerated shoulders are sculpted to frame the body and create a powerful silhouette. inspired by armor yet rooted in organic form. The light sand leather brings a sense of warmth and sophistication, while the soft sheen of the pants reflects light beautifully; enhancing every movement. Paired with fluid, shimmering pants, the look is balanced-bold in structure, effortless in flow. This design is for the woman who owns every room she walks into. SUSTAINABILITY CONCEPT This design is rooted in a conscious approach to material use and craftsmanship, balancing innovation with responsibility. Created using 50% cattle leather, prioritizing durability and longevity over disposability: The layered construction minimizes waste by using smaller cut pieces efficiently, transforming offcuts into intentional design elements. Each component is handcrafted, reducing reliance on mass production and supporting slower, mindful creation processes. The neutral light sand tone reflects a connection to natural elements and timeless design beyond seasonal trends. This design represents a future where fashion is not only expressive, but also responsible intentional and enduring. Made IN TWO MATERIAL OPTIONS • 50% CATTLE LEATHER BLEND • SUSTAINABLE ACRYLIC • Acetate Glass Designer Statement This project is deeply personal a reflection of my belief in independence, creativity, and the courage to pursue one’s dreams at any stage of life. Through this design, I wanted to express the strength that comes from embracing who you are, regardless of age, circumstance, or where you begin. Art, for me, has always been a space of freedom and self-discovery, and this piece embodies that journey. It is a reminder to never give up, to keep creating, and to trust that growth and possibility exist at every moment. This design stands as both a celebration of resilience and a statement that it is never too late to become who you are meant to be.

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.