As an artist, Dina Maghawry creates pieces that invoke happiness and simplicity. A jewelry designer by trade, Dina’s designs surpass a normcore culture and speak to the artist within each of her shoppers. Uniting a love of art and jewelry, Dina Maghawry Jewelry is made for everyone. “I put my pieces out there, and just let them find their own homes,” Dina laughed. Having followed her calling in 2002, Dina – who was a fashion editor in a magazine – quit her job and went in pursuit of creating beauty and making art with her hands. “It was a strong urge that I could not resist in any way!” she explained, “So I started studying jewelry making.”

Developing her skills over the years, Dina picked up several techniques which she considers revolutionized her work and gave her an edge. Setting herself apart from others, Dina incorporates the use of enamel in her pieces which she believes is underused by most modern jewelry designers. Not following the latest trends, each piece is modelled after a specific theme Dina is inclined towards, where soul searching serves as her inspiration. “Ideas are usually coming from within me as opposed to the outside world,” Dina elaborated. Each piece is created with love and, in a way, is an expression of who she really is. “When I create I do it without a motive, it’s just an expression of myself, and a desire to share myself with the world,” Dina told bazaar smilingly.

Fashionality questionnaire:

Does fashion ‘make’ the person or does the person ‘make’ fashion?

The person makes the fashion. All the styles and outfits that are in fashion have been determined so by people, i.e. trendsetters.

In your opinion, what makes a piece of jewelry a statement piece? Why?

What’s certain is that if you love the piece of jewelry that you are wearing, you will make it look special by how you feel about it and wear it, and that’s how you turn it into a statement piece.

How would you describe your style and what inspires it?

My style represents and describes me: my likings, my favorite things. And what inspires me is my soul — anything that my soul is drawn to: It could be a certain culture, heritage, place, nature, or even a thought.

What makes jewelry important?

Just like any other adornment, it emphasizes one’s beauty; it’s fun and playful.

What makes a piece special?

That’s relative to each one. A piece could be special to you but not to others; because it resonates with you, speaks to you.

Is there such thing as the essential every-day piece and what qualities would it have?

Well I can’t really say that any jewelry item is universally essential, because that goes back to each one’s preference. You could be the type that only wears jewelry on occasions, others cannot stay without something on.

From your personal collection, what pieces do you hold near and dear? Why?

I like all of my collections, and I enjoyed making them all. I am doing what I am doing out of passion, therefore I enjoyed working on all of them. Each collection has a story and a reason behind it, and it’s always a part of me that I want to share with others.

What do you think is the one piece that every fashion lover should own? Why?

My answer will again be there are none. It’s all personal and relative.

Who from the fashion world would you love to collaborate with?

I’m a fan of so many jewelry designers around the globe, but I wouldn’t want to collaborate with any. They are just purely inspiration.

What does it take to become a style innovator?

An open unlimited attitude and a free mind that is willing to be receptive to any innovative idea. Ideas are there, but the key is to be receptive.

What’s exciting right now in fashion?

Believe it or not, I don’t know! I don’t follow the fashion news – LOL!

Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?

I am always inspired by the old, ethnic, romantic styles and eras.

Who are your favorite emerging designers, and what is it that you love about them?

I really like Egypt’s Okhtein brand for bags and more. They are innovative, and the product quality is excellent. I loved their beach towels last summer!

What is the highlight of your ‘style’ career so far?

Ethnic, colorful and hippie chic with unusual color mixes.

Every fashionality has as a style obsession, what’s yours?

I don’t have fashion obsessions, I just wear what I like and feel comfortable in.

Do you follow any fashion influencers (Instagram/Blogs etc)? If so, who are they and which would you recommend?

I love Alberta Ferretti dresses, they’re the best! I follow their page on Instagram.

What item of clothing or accessory (if any) do you wish that people wore more often?

I wish people would wear what identifies them. They should have their own choice in deciding their style, and not what has been imposed on them by the fashion world.

What’s next for Dina Maghawry?

[Laughing] I don’t know – I’ll just keep on creating!

To be stylish is to be fashionable. True or False and why?

False: Because no matter how hard you try to follow the international fashion trends, if they don’t suit you, you will still look unstylish.

You can follow Dina’s stunning creations on Instagram @dina_maghawryjewelry. For those in or visiting Cairo, stop by Dina’s store in Zamalek – call +201 2875 66014 for directions. For custom orders and international inquiries, email Dina at dina.maghawry@gmail.com or Direct Message her on Instagram.