Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
This week, we speak to Victoria Bahl, founder of the ready-to-wear fashion brand, Botsi that has transformed the sartorial game in Dubai.
Born and developed in Dubai, Botsi is not just a fashion brand; it’s an experience. With Parisian sophistication and a unique flair, the label ensures placing quality comes above all else.
At its core, Botsi is a celebration of women, embracing their inner strength, femininity, and individuality. Born and developed in Dubai, Botsi is not just a fashion brand; it’s an experience, that’s rooted in artistry.
So delve into it further, Emirates Woman spoke to the founder Bahl on how it all began.
What was your favourite subject at school?
My passion for art and design flourished during my school years, inspiring me to pursue
a career in fashion design. Expressing creativity visually has always captivated me, and
the skills I acquired during my studies greatly influenced the distinctive aesthetic and
innovative approach that characterises Botsi today.
What brought you to Dubai?
The choice to relocate to Dubai was driven by a combination of factors that harmonized
seamlessly with my professional and creative goals. With its lively and cosmopolitan
ambiance, Dubai has evolved into a worldwide center for the fashion sector. The city’s
dynamic fusion of heritage and modernity, coupled with its increasing influence in the
fashion realm, offered an irresistible prospect for me.
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What inspired you to enter the fashion space and talk us through your role as
founder of the fashion label, Botsi?
I find joy in unleashing my creativity and communicating my thoughts through design.
My personal style is shaped by my experiences, cultural heritage, and individual preferences. I stay updated on the latest fashion trends and innovations, always eager
to explore new ideas. Making sustainable choices is important to me; I strive to create
designs that are environmentally friendly and socially conscious. Cultural diversity
inspires me, influencing my work with a global perspective. I believe in the power of
self-expression and aim to empower others to embrace their uniqueness through
clothing. With a formal education in fashion design and a solid understanding of design
principles, I am driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, motivated to launch my own fashion
brand.
Talk through concept of Botsi.
By embracing diversity in body shapes, sizes, and backgrounds, Botsi aims to become a
brand that connects with a wide and inclusive audience. Through thoughtfully selecting
these components, Botsi seeks to establish itself as a women’s clothing label that not
only provides fashionable and comfortable attire but also promotes feelings of
empowerment, uniqueness, and inclusiveness among its clientele.
What are the key elements of your role?
As a creative director, the key elements I prioritise encompassing a strong vision coupled with creativity, inspiring leadership, and effective management skills. I continuously stay abreast of all the industry trends, ensuring our work remains innovative and relevant to our audience.
Talk us through your daily routine.
In my daily routine as the founder of a fashion brand, I begin by reviewing completed
tasks and assessing what still needs to be done. Multitasking is a key aspect of my role,
allowing me to juggle various responsibilities simultaneously. Alongside overseeing the
brand’s direction and strategy, I also handle day-to-day operations, collaborate with team
members, and stay updated on industry trends. This multitasking ability enables me to
efficiently manage different aspects of the business while maintaining focus on our
overarching goals and objectives.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
For those aspiring to walk a similar path, my advice is to nurture your creativity and
seek inspiration continuously, embracing experimentation and thinking innovatively.
Keep learning and stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and business
strategies relevant to fashion design and entrepreneurship. Build a strong network of
mentors and peers, as their guidance and support can be invaluable. Understand the
business side of fashion, including marketing, finance, and operations, alongside your
creative pursuits. Embrace resilience, learn from setbacks, and persevere through
challenges, keeping true to your vision and values. Prioritize quality, integrity, and
sustainability in your work, and be prepared to work hard and make sacrifices along the
way. By following these principles, you can forge a fulfilling and successful career in the
dynamic world of fashion.
Tell us more about the pieces.
Our pieces invite you to immerse yourself in a captivating blend of dry red, dark brown,
and nude hues, echoing the rich textures of Petra. Inspired by the mystical allure of
Safari on Mars, our collection draws upon the ancient AI-Khanzeh, marrying luxury with
the enigmatic essence of a distant world. Each garment reflects a fusion of opulence
and intrigue, inviting you to embark on a journey where tradition meets innovation and
the extraordinary becomes tangible.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received and worst?
No matter how hard it gets , just stick with it , if it doesn’t challenge you , it will not
change you and don’t remember the worst , only remember the good once .
Whats the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
Ease my grip and let it go on the things I can’t control. I’m still learning how to do it.
Whats your future for the brand?
For the future, Botsi envisions an exciting trajectory characterized by continued growth,
innovation, and global recognition. We are committed to expanding our presence in the
fashion industry by exploring new markets and reaching a broader audience while
staying true to our core values of creativity, sustainability, and inclusivity.
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