Step into the world of ‘Becoming’ with Murk and Hania Aamir. Discover the inspiration, creativity, and vision behind this captivating project

When dreamy silhouettes meet soft strength, you get a fashion language that’s as poetic as it is intentional. With Hania Aamir as the muse and Murk Bajari, the designer behind By Murk, this cover shoot captures more than just style—it captures a story. In this exclusive conversation, Murk opens up about the meaning behind her name, how she finds muses who reflect her aesthetic, and why luxury isn’t always loud. From her UK-Pakistan cultural lens to her creative rituals and fabric philosophies, she lets us in on the beautifully layered world of By Murk.

The story behind the name Murk is that my name is very unique and comes from the Sindhi language, where it means “smile.” So, wearing clothes from By Murk is all about making you smile. That’s the emotional heart of the brand – bringing joy, one outfit at a time.

Let’s start at the root – what’s the story behind the name Murk? Was it always meant to be an extension of your identity, or did it evolve with the brand?

A moodboard for By Murk is a blend of calm and inspiration. When starting a new collection, I gather images, colors, textures, and patterns that resonate with the theme I have in mind. It often starts with a few key pieces that spark my creativity, which might include soft fabrics, beautiful landscapes, or even artwork. As I compile these elements, I look for a balance in colors and styles to create a cohesive vision. Sometimes, it can feel a bit chaotic with so many ideas swirling around, but that’s part of the process. I refine and narrow it down until I have a clear direction that reflects the essence of the collection. Ultimately, the moodboard serves as a guiding light, helping me stay focused and inspired as I bring the collection to life.

If you could design an outfit to represent where you are in life right now—professionally and personally—what would it look like, and what would it be called?

If I could design an outfit to represent this moment in my life, it would be a structured yet fluid ensemble – maybe a fitted bodice with flowing layers, something that mirrors the balance I’m trying to strike between discipline and creativity. It would use raw silk for its richness but in soft, earthy tones that feel grounded. I’d call it “Becoming,” because that’s exactly what this phase feels like. I’m still learning, evolving, and discovering new sides of myself as both a designer and a person. The outfit would carry strength in its structure but softness in its movement – just like the journey I’m on right now.