Dubai World Cup fashion: out with the old, in with couture

On the racecourse, the pressure is exceedingly high – for the men behind the reins, yes, and for the women in the crowd, maybe even more so. Aside from sourcing the perfect hat for the occasion, much stress goes into finding the perfect dress. Simple strapless numbers repeated from previous affairs and humdrum high-street halter buys aren’t easily disguised, and are quickly forgotten. They’re not viable options for those seeking to take away “best-dressed” trophies, and many women would rather stay home than be dragged out wearing attire that’s plainly unremarkable.

This poses quite the challenge for female race attendees, and can lead to last-minute, late-night shopping trips to the mall where, in sheer desperation, dresses are purchased that are neither very loved, nor within budget. After they’re worn, photographed and perhaps published in the social pages of magazines, they’re hung in the backs of closets, boxed up and put in storage or given away to charity. What a waste.

For those on the brink of succumbing to the social pressure of buying a new dress for every ritzy occasion, there is a solution, both fashion forward and cost-efficient. It will require some imagination and willingness to let go of the old, but could result in a truly one-of-a-kind, custom-made, couture-inspired masterpiece.

With a bit of rejuvenation, even a decade-old prom gown or bridesmaid’s dress can be made into an entirely new creation, consistent with current runway trends, and perfect for an outing such as the Dubai World Cup. New dresses can cost up to Dh1,000 on the high street, and Dh25,000, or more, if they’re designer wear. But any existing dress can be chopped, lengthened, panelled and pleated to create something fresh and as good as new, costing anywhere from Dh100 upwards, depending on the design.

Sara Al Dimachki is the managing partner of 800 Tailor, which is a personalised, contemporary tailoring service that offers pick-up and delivery from and to clients’ doorsteps. She suggests why the idea of redesigning dresses may not appeal to all women in the UAE. “They always like to be seen in the latest collections, and some might see going to the tailor as a hassle,” she explains.

Original article by Hafsa Lodi

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Dubai World Cup fashion: out with the old, in with couture