Meet The House of Nonie.

After losing her brother to gang violence in 2005,  Nina ‘Nonie’ Rahal-Kharey was triggered to pursue her passion for design. Rahal-Kharey’s House of Nonie debut Spring 2010 collection at Alberta Fashion Week would receive warm attention.

Key elements incorporated into the House of Nonie collections come to light tribute through the colour red,  a tribute to her brother. In as little as a year House of Nonie has garnished a substantial and well received amount of attention with designs such as the one shouldered dresses, a solid set of flowing gowns and well proportioned suits that exude soft elegance.

Wielding not only a great sense of style, Rahal-Kharey is also a graduate of Computer Engineering. The enthusiastic designer had chosen a career in the field, but  changed paths.

Having learned how to sew at an early age from her mother who worked for a clothing manufacturer as well as retaining the influences of her father also in the textile business. Rahal-Kharey’s prevalent interest in  designing and sketching  would take centre stage after a time of hardship.

The House of Nonie currently has four collections under it’s umbrella and will once again be showing at Alberta Fashion Week.

As the House of Nonie grows Rahal-Kharey has joined forces with her husband to further expand the company and with the exposure gathered from AFW it’s expected to expand even further.

Outside of fashion, Rahal-Karey gives her time to the community, volunteering with the Calgary Police to speak about gang violence and providing awareness for teenagers and parents of the signs of gang violence.

Q&A

CF: What is your Spring style essential?

NRK (Nina Rahal-Kharey): Ripped jeans and bohemian inspired clothing and purses with the long strap so you can wear them as a messenger bag.

CF: Leggings or Jeggings (Jean leggings)?

NRK: Leggings, go for pleather or shinny leggings in dark colors. High waisted leggings are great as well. but, if you have the right built defiantly go for the jegging!

CF: What other things are you working on?

NRK: Working on writing a book, and planning fashion shows to create awareness for the causes closest to me.

CF: Something you can’t live without?

NRK: Vintage glamour

For more information on gang violence, please visit http://www.getalife.ca

For more information on House of Nonie, please visit http://www.houseofnonie.com

Linda Sui Lem