My name is Mona. I’m 21 and my nationality is Danish. Moved to Dubai in 2000 and now studying at AUD. I live with my mom and sisters and have always wanted to support my mom for the care she’s given us all our lives. One day over the dinner table I just suggested that I start designing abayas. It was a risk but I said I’d rather take it and fail or take it and pass. I had a lot of barriers my way. Very few people supported me and gave me hope and I will always be thankful to them. I dedicate my success to the people that supported me throughout my journey; God for his acceptance and giving me the will power, the moral support of my aunts and the physical, mental and emotional support of my best friend. I started off selling at home, had a small client base. It grew over a few months and decided to open a shop. The shop opened in June 2010.
1. How did you get into the opening your own Abaya couture?
As a child I wanted to be a fashion designer. I always drew tops, I guess with the abaya fantasy over the dinner table, I moved on to abayas
What are the inspirations behind your upcoming collection?
I observe the people and see what designs are mostly liked and develop something similar with my own touch. I also try to mix the European fashion with Arabic traditions.
Do you use Swarovski elements into your designs?
All the stones used are Swarovski as they have a unique shine and value when put onto an abaya.
Three Abaya styling tips? ( how would u recommend a girl on wearing Abaya)
This really varies according to a girl’s physique. But the first tip, would be not to wear flats or flipflops with a abaya that has cuts and folds; it loses its value and would usually make the girl look shorter than she actually is or give her curves in places she wouldn’t wish to have.
Tell us about your latest collection?
My summer collection contains roses and light colors of fabric. Inspired by the heat in Dubai I feel it’s important that one wears cool colors to balance with the weather. It also helps create peace and calmness when light colors are balanced with the heat
What’s next for Your Brand?
I am currently working on a shawl collection that will hopefully be sold at Harvey Nichols. Various collections will be launched seasonally ( Ramadan, Eid, Winter etc. ). These shawls are for every elegant lady that wishes to achieve that image easily. For example a rough day at work; when she’s on her break she can just wrap the shawl around her which will give her a spiced up look no matter what she’s wearing.
Have you featured you’re collection in any of the fashion shows in the UAE?
I have not yet participated in any fashion shows. But I have attended the fashion shows at the bridal exhibition to gain more experience and knowledge, and to learn from their positive and negative points so when I make my fashion show it will hopefully be perfect.
What other businesses do you own?
I also buy and sell branded items ( shoes, handbags, clothes, accessories, you name it). So it works by the customer giving me a price they want to sell their item for. I place it on sale, and when another customer buys the item, I give the amount back to the owner of the item. I believe that this is a very effective way to recycle your brands and earn a profit on it instead the items just lying in closet.
I also have a collection of summer clothes and basic essentials a lady needs (Cardigans, evening ponchos)
I also design uniforms for a variety of clients and then produce them. (e.g for certain events they have a specific color theme that i use as my guide.)
What is one piece every woman should have in her wardrobe?
A shawl that is at a neutral color or matches the majority color base in her wardrobe that she can just quickly pull out with her if she’s having a long day. (Therefore even if she’s dressed casual during the day, she can wrap the shawl around her for the evening and still look fabulous with the casual outfit underneath)
Five essentials in your handbag?
Perfume, hand cream, lipstick, wallet & mint
What is on your shopping list for S/S’11?
I usually design my own clothes and get them stitched
Last inspirational words for the readers?
With Gulf Princess every girl can be stylish and up to date with fashion. We provide items in all price ranges to make sure every girl shines like a princess with the best quality of clothing
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1 Comment
Hi,, i have a shop for abayas also ,, will u can give me some of ur designs ? Inshallah ,, we will deals in quantity