Lebanese designer Reem Acra was in the UAE this week to meet and greet with the fashion community in her role as a board member of the Dubai Design & Fashion Council, consulting on this weekend’s Meet d3, the launch of Dubai Design District.
Having established her bridal label in New York in 1997, Acra chose the non-traditional route of running her company independently. It was a risk that reaped dividends with her brand now synonymous with ready-to-wear and ethereal couture and worn by celebrities including Angelina Jolie and Madonna on the red carpet.
What are you hoping to bring to the DDFC?
I’m hoping to help the new generation of designers, to guide and mentor them. I am an expert because I’ve built my own label single-handedly, I’ve been at this about 18 years, plus I’m originally from this region.
What have been the key takeaway messages of your talks with upcoming designers?
I’ve been myself and very frank. Specifically I wanted to tell the next generation never to underestimate the fashion industry, is a complicated business and very hard work. I also highlighted that it’s an exciting time for Dubai, and the region, it’s certainly the right time to be here. Another message was that designers should look within themselves, not elsewhere, to compete. They must look to the region for inspiration, instead of copying others or searching elsewhere. That’s how we become strong and how we’ll have a good industry. It’s all about being true to ourselves and that will take a bit of time to teach.
What are your predictions for Dubai’s fashion industry?
It’s just the beginning and Dubai continues to grow quickly in wonderful way. I believe it will continue, as the vision is unique. So, it’s hard to say how long it will take to build the industry, but something brewing and the timing is perfect.
Original article by Rebecca McLaughlin-Duane
Continue reading at The National:
Lebanese designer Reem Acra delivers sage advice to UAE designers
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