MÁLA Studio Interview
MÁLA Studio, named after the word for ‘bag’ in Irish, is a textile studio run by designer Hannah Whelan and is based between London and Dublin. Every bag is handmade in vibrant, bright colours and is inspired by natural landscapes and organic forms. I was lucky enough to interview the head of the slow fashion brand and get an in-depth behind the scenes look at Hannah’s creative process…
Where are you currently based?
I’m currently based in Shoreditch, London.
What inspired you to found MÁLA STUDIO?
MÁLA STUDIO was born out of a personal desire for a bag that truly resonated with me. I was searching for something timeless, eye-catching and functional enough to carry all of my daily essentials. When I couldn’t find anything that felt right, I decided to stop looking and design my own bag.The first time I wore my own design around NYC was in 2019. I was genuinely surprised by the reaction. Strangers would stop me on the street or in bars, asking where I got it. That unexpected response sparked something in me and from that moment on I haven’t stopped designing and growing my business.
What was your gateway into the world of design and making?
It started during my final year at NCAD while studying textile design. During this time I started designing abstract planters for interior spaces. These pieces blurred the line between art and design. It was from that moment forward where my work began to evolve from art into designs with purpose.
Who is your greatest inspiration?
It might sound cheesy but I can’t pinpoint just one person. My greatest inspiration is the community that surrounds me. The people in my life inspire me daily and the way they navigate this wild world continuously shapes my understanding of design and functionality. Their creativity, self-expression and the confidence with which they carry themselves deeply influence my work and help inform my designs and what people want and desire from design these days. My community keeps me curious, and champions me every step of the way and I feel lucky to have some incredible people with me on this journey.
Who is a designer you admire?
Eileen Gray is a designer I’ve admired for years. Her work is timeless and innovative, particularly considering the era she was designing in and how she navigated a male dominated industry with confidence and resilience. I reflect on her work and how she blended form and function so effortlessly into her designs. Each design is beautiful but thoughtful in their purpose. There’s a hint of elegance and intelligence in her approach that continues to influence how I think about design, not just as an aesthetic choice, but as a reflection of how we live and move through life.
What is a philosophy you follow in your creative practice?
A very important philosophy I follow is to design at my own pace. Not paying too much attention to seasonal calendars or fleeting trends. I believe in creating from a place of authenticity staying rooted in my personal story, values, and background.
What is your favourite memory since starting the brand?
One of my favourite memories since starting MÁLA STUDIO so far was when the Meanie handbag was worn by the incredibly talented writer Fariha Róisín in her Vogue feature. It was definitely a pinch-me moment! Seeing my design not only featured in such an iconic publication but also worn by such a strong, creative and inspiring person like Fariha Róisín validated the path I'm on. It was a powerful reminder to stay committed to what I love and don't give up!
Where does sustainability fit into your design ethos?
As a small business sustainability is a very important factor that I always have at the forefront of my mind when designing. At MÁLA STUDIO every product is made with intentionality and care, following a slow design process that ensures both authenticity and sustainability. In addition I am actively working to develop sustainable materials through the Comber Project. This is an ongoing initiative I started this year. This project is focused on combating water pollution by repurposing discarded ropes and nets found in our waterways and transforming this waste into sustainable, one of a kind fabrics, reducing the environmental impact and promoting a circular approach to design.
Do you think your background in textile design influenced your perspective on circular fashion?
Absolutely! My background in textile design has provided me with a deep understanding of how wasteful and negligent the fashion industry can be, especially when it comes to materials and production processes. It has really opened my eyes to the importance of creating with intention.
I’m committed to not contributing to the problem but instead actively seeking solutions, for example through my initiative the Comber Project. I see this as a necessary and forward-thinking initiative. This project focuses on transforming manmade fibres such as discarded ropes and fishing nets that pollute our waterways into viable textiles for use in fashion and interiors. To me, this is a responsible and resourceful approach to tackling a major environmental challenge through design.
Do you view design as a language?
I definitely think of design as a powerful form of communication. It is a universal language in its own way that doesn’t rely on words. Exposure to design has the ability to inform and evoke a wide range of emotions and reactions in ways that sometimes spoken language cannot.
How do you balance working between London and Dublin?
Working between London and Dublin can be difficult at times. I try to keep my finger on the pulse in both cities but it can be hard to keep up with everything, particularly in London as it can be pretty fast paced. That said, taking a few trips a year back to Ireland keeps me inspired and connected. There are moments when I really feel out of the loop of what's going on in Dublin. It's a unique market and has been a tough one for me to crack!
Shop MÁLA Studio now at studiomala.com
Writer: Sophia O’Connor
Copyeditor: Mia Craven
