LONDON: Riyadh-born designer Lina Hamed sits at her drafting desk in her home in west London holding a delicate looking pen. She raises her head to look at the view from the window and comments that certain daylight is ideal for drawing.
Hamed is the founder of Analeena, which translates to “I am Lina,” the high-end label that was founded in 2009.
The label is stocked in London’s ultra-glamorous department store, Harrods — a good indicator of its luxurious designs.
Analeena’s focus on exotic leather — she is known for her use of crocodile, alligator and ostrich leather — and attention to detail is what sets the brand apart.
“My handbags are worn by the woman who understands luxury and appreciates quality,” she told Arab News.
“I want the bags to have a long life and be passed down to the next generation. I have built in torches with chargers inside the bags and bag hangers inside each bag,” she said, referring to her now famous secret pockets and hideaways for trinkets.
London is this designer’s city of choice and she lauds its many cultures.
“London is a very rich city with many cultures,” she said with fondness.
Hamed has a message for young designers who are starting out in the field.
“Focus on what you want to achieve. Don’t waste time thinking about the competition, there will always be someone new.”
Analeena’s designs have been spotted on the likes of Blake Lively’s “Gossip Girl” character on the much-loved TV show, as well as celebrities Dita Von Teese and Molly Sims.
