This year’s American Music Awards wasn’t just a celebration of melodic excellence – it also turned out to be a stage for bold Middle Eastern fashion.
From Gwen Stefani in Yousef Al Jasmi’s couture to Jennifer Lopez dressed in a pink-and-peach ombré frock by the Dubai-based Michael Cinco, designers from the region have taken the fashion world by storm.
Emirati fashion designer and creator of R Style abayas, Reem Al Zarouni, believes Middle Eastern designers and Islamic fashion will dominate the international scene for the next few years, too.
Zarouni says Arab women have a knack for balancing smart with traditional when it comes to fashion and this will be showcased at the Modern Woman Show, at Dubai World Trade Centre, this weekend.
Co-created by Sumansa Exhibitions, it will host the latest brands and trends for women, in addition to being a platform to launch local designers and entrepreneurs.
How did the idea for a Modern Women Show come about?
The region lacks an exhibition that unites the best in all aspects of women’s needs. You will find exhibitions catering to one area of the female market, but nothing like what we are hosting.
How is this show different from other lifestyle shows hosted in Dubai?
What distinguishes this show from others is the fact that it will provide all a woman’s necessities under one umbrella – whether it is fashion related, beauty, jewellery and much more.
How do you describe a modern woman?
To me, a modern-day woman is one who is smart, classy, fashion forward and social.
Will we see a lot of UAE-based brands showcasing their products at the event?
Absolutely. Home-grown brands that will be showcased include DAS, Fetha Couture and 1001 Abayas.
Did you find it hard to make your mark as an entrepreneur and fashion designer?
I have always had a passion for fashion and that is what inspired me to start my own line, R Style. Starting a new business is always a risk, but with the support I got from my family, friends and community, I was able to succeed.
How will Emirati fashion be represented in this exhibition?
Emirati fashion will range from traditional abayas, kaftans and jalabiyas, as well as traditional Emirati jewellery.
Where does Arab fashion stand in the global industry at the moment? What sort of growth is expected in this area?
In the past few years, Arab fashion and lifestyle has been blossoming on the global platform. To further this growth, I plan to host the Modern Woman Show on an international scale in the coming years.
What’s trending in Emirati fashion and lifestyle at the moment?
Layering, prints, and bright colour are in this season.
• The Modern Woman Show is at the Dubai World Trade Centre from tomorrow until Saturday. Entry is free for preregistered visitors. For more information, visit www.modernwomanshow.com
aahmed@thenational.ae
