In a fashion landscape where your choice of footwear can subtly dictate the tone of your entire ensemble, a new footwear label, Bivalve, emerges with a unique style philosophy that’s both bold and understated. The brand sprang from the creative mind of Mahra Alshamsi, who has masterfully woven the UAE’s vibrant cultural heritage with the sleek touch of modern design to create something far beyond ordinary shoes. Bivalve stands out not just for its luxury but for its narrative—a conversation between heritage and modernity, personal style, and public expression. As we catch up with Mahra Alshamsi, the force behind Bivalve, we’re here to uncover how this brand is walking the fine line between cultural homage and fashion-forward design, offering women around the globe a chance to step into their power, one shoe at a time.
Mahra, can you share the story behind the inception of Bivalve? What was the moment or idea that sparked the creation of this brand?
Bivalve was born out of my love for Emirati elements and culture, specifically sparked by the iconic palm tree. Each shoe is a blend of tradition and contemporary flair, meticulously crafted to honor our heritage. The name “Bivalve” symbolizes this harmony. Our brand celebrates the timeless elegance of Emirati culture, offering luxury footwear that is both meaningful and precious.
What’s the simplest thing that has inspired one of your most complex designs?
With each design, I embark on a thrilling journey to capture the essence of nature’s wonders. Something as simple as the delicate petals of a blooming flower to the rugged texture of a mountain peak, has ignited my imagination and been transformed into a unique shoe design.
How do you translate the essence of Emirati culture into a shoe?
In Bivalve, we celebrate UAE heritage by integrating two precious elements: the iconic palm tree and the luxurious gold color. These symbols of resilience and prosperity infuse each shoe with cultural pride and elegance, creating pieces that resonate with the essence of Emirati culture.
Can you describe your creative process in a few steps?
The creative process for Bivalve begins with drawing inspiration from Emirati culture, nature and contemporary art. Initial concepts are sketched, focusing on integrating iconic elements like the palm tree motif with luxurious gold accents. Careful material selection follows, with prototypes crafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. The final touches, from branding to packaging, are curated to elevate the luxury experience. Throughout, we focus on attention to detail and our commitment to celebrating Emirati heritage in every step, ensuring each pair of Bivalve shoes is a masterpiece of tradition and sophistication.
Bivalve is not just a shoe but an experience. Can you discuss how you aim to evoke emotions or memories in your customers through your designs? Is there a particular sensory element—be it texture, colour, or pattern—that you believe connects most deeply?
There is no single element that connects most deeply; rather, it is the harmonious combination of various elements. We achieve this by carefully selecting each texture, colour, and pattern. Whether it’s the luxurious feel of fine leather, the vibrant hues inspired by Emirati landscapes, or the intricate patterns that tell stories of heritage, each element is thoughtfully chosen to create an unforgettable sensory experience. By engaging multiple senses, we aim to create shoes that not only look beautiful but also resonate deeply with our customers, touching their hearts and leaving a lasting impression.
Every designer has a dream project or design they haven’t yet brought to life. What’s yours for Bivalve, and how do you see it pushing the boundaries of what’s currently possible in footwear design?
My dream for Bivalve is to collaborate with a renowned international jewellery brand, combining our expertise in footwear design with their craftsmanship to create a collection of luxurious shoes adorned with stunning gemstones and intricate metalwork. This collaboration would push the boundaries of footwear design, offering customers the ultimate blend of opulence and sophistication.
In one sentence, how do shoes empower the women who wear them?
Shoes empower women by providing them with confidence, style, and the freedom to express their individuality with every step they take.
If you had to describe Bivalve’s signature style in three words, what would they be?
Artistic, Cultural, Contemporary
Any final messages or thoughts?
Each shoe we create is an opportunity to weave a story of heritage, grace, and ingenuity, infusing every pair with the passion and dedication that sets us apart.
