FASHION presented it in Dubai Fashion Week back in 2003. I just started growing slowly from there.
From where do you draw your inspiration? W. My inspirations come from everything around me; sometimes it will be a piece of jewellery, a colourful bird, or a pretty garden while enjoying afternoon tea. What materials do you work with? W. I work with all kinds of materials, but I’ve got to say that lace is one of my favourites; I usually incorporate lace in all my collections. My materials are sourced in Italy or France. I like using only the best. I also really enjoy working with exotic leathers for the couture pieces.
Where is the collection made? W. I do the sample pieces here in my studio in Bahrain as well as bespoke pieces. When I have a large quantity from buyers, we send the technical drawings to our production team in Italy. They usually cut the material then send it here for us to do the embroidery and beading. Then we send it back to complete the production.
How do you design your creations? W. It always starts with ideas in my head from inspirations I see. Then we create a sketch. From that I start playing with material on the mannequin. When I start to design a piece I will always make adjustments and changes, which is usually a pain for the technical drawers and production team, because they can never get a result until the last day before a shoot or a fashion show. Usually a piece will change completely from the first idea. What trends can be seen throughout your Autumn Winter Collection? W. Combining and paneling different materials: Laser-cut, sheer, velvet and metallic leather. Is there one piece that encapsulates who you are as a designer? W. The long black laser-cut leather dress with gold lace is one that translates my brand. It is extravagant yet very chic and elegant.
“The WALLA woman is glamorous and elegant. She stands out from the crowd with her unique, sophisticated and chic sense of style.”
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Ohlala! I December 2012 I www.ohlala-magazine.com