When Tiffany Met Warda in Dubai: tete`-a-tete´
4 Feb
Spring is almost here and I, for one can’t wait to get out of the greys and blacks of winter wear. I would like nothing more than to cavort around Dubai in elegant Audrey Hepburn inspired dresses- Ah, the joys of hot spring-summer days!
Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast At Tiffany's
Now, many a designer has claimed to have created his/her collection inspired by the timeless fashion icon, but Ms Hepburn is a tough act to emulate and few have managed to do justice. To capture her style, elegance and simplicity in a clothing line is difficult to achieve. What made me sit up and take notice is that Rahil Hesan of Warda Couture did just that- and with élan!
Here’s a quick tete`-a-tete´ with the designer on her collection, faux fur and fashion in Dubai:
Designer Rahil Hesan of Boutique and Atelier: Warda Haute Couture
Your prêt- a-porter collection ‘Tiffany meets Warda’ is inspired by Audrey Hepburn. In what way does the collection reflect her style?
The collection exudes timeless beauty that is the epitome of Audrey Hepburn’s style. Her simple yet elegant demeanor can be seen in each and every dress from this collection. For the season I wanted to celebrate this fashion icon and the collection was put together purely with this in mind and we are pleased with the response we have received.
What are the biggest spring summer 2012 trends to watch out for?
This season we will see the comeback of the clean, fluid and classic cuts. Also, bold colors are still making rounds this season.
What is your take on the state of the fashion industry in the UAE? It is a hub for international brands but is the local talent been given a good enough platform?
The fashion industry in the UAE is certainly going through a massive evolution. Over the years we have witnessed more and more designers emerging in this market and are able to sustain their brand here and abroad. To this day the market enjoys international brands but with the emergence of local designers we are witnessing their acceptance in the market. The public is also more aware and educated on local talent and that definitely helps boosts the industry giving the young designers a platform to showcase their talent.
The 'Tiffany Meets Warda' Collection: Warda Haute Couture
The 'Tiffany Meets Warda' Collection: Warda Haute Couture
The 'Tiffany Meets Warda' Collection: Warda Haute Couture
The 'Tiffany Meets Warda' Collection: Warda Haute Couture
What are some of the challenges faced by local designers here in the UAE? Any advice for upcoming talent?
The UAE has become the fashion hub of the Middle East, over the years we have witnessed a great deal of emerging designers as well as we have seen established designers progressing to international arena. Although the industry is evolving there’s still much to be done and that will come in time as we see more fashion designers uniting with a common goal. As designers there are always challenges, every season brings its own dynamic; so you are constantly looking for inspiration and market penetration – and this doesn’t end there – as a young designer you must be determined, focused and committed in order to sustain your brand and presence – the industry has a lot of challenges but if you are committed to accepting these challenges then you are going to be able to keep yourself going.
As part of the influential fashion fraternity in the country, what is your stand on animal cruelty in fashion? Is Faux fur still considered a faux pas or is that perspective beginning to change?
My stand is simple – with modern technology available to us we can move mountains so why not use these capabilities to create a fashion accessory that wouldn’t be hurting the lives of beautiful creations. Faux fur is not considered faux pas anymore because I think we have all become fashion conscious and this is a positive reflection of how fashion is becoming ambassador of social causes.
What is your personal style like? Is it classic like Audrey Hepburn, or modern and experimental?
Personally I like the classic cuts and simple elegance like Audrey Hepburn complimented with modern influence. When experimenting I tend to be on the conservative side so not to exaggerate the look.
What style advice would you like to give readers of Fashionably Yours?
Style must come naturally; it cannot be forced or be seen as forced. You must create a style to reflect you as an individual and that comes with its own essence. Don’t be afraid to experiment – because you’ll actually be surprised to discover what works for you and what doesn’t. Keep it simple and elegant and certainly unique.
The Tiffany Meets Warda Collection: Warda Haute Couture, Dubai
Watch out for ‘Tiffany Meets Warda’ HERE or follow Warda Couture on Twitter and Facebook.
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