This week, Emirates Woman sat down with Hannah Attalah, Founder of Oceanus , a UK-based resortwear label.
Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible wellness, fashion and beauty 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.
The brand is on a mission to redefine swimwear and empower women. Designed with the intention of turning heads, each piece in the collection evokes a sense of self-expression to help women stand out and feel powerful. It exudes confidence through its unique textures without compromising on sustainability.
Overall, it reflects the confident attitude of 80s glamour evening wear which is a constant reference point for the brand.
To delve into how it all began, we understood, how she developed a unique design – a hybrid of glamorous evening-wear and functional swimwear.
What was your favourite subject at school?
Art was my favorite subject at school because it allowed me to unleash my creativity in various forms such as painting, drawing, and sculpting. It provided me with a way to express myself freely and explore different perspectives and emotions. Through art, I learned to appreciate beauty in different forms and developed skills in visual communication and interpretation. Overall, art offered me a rich and fulfilling learning experience that was both personally rewarding and intellectually stimulating.
What was your first job?
My first job was at Alfie’s antique market which now moved to San Diego and is owned by Sparkle Moore.
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What inspired you to enter the fashion industry and launch Oceanus?
Since a young age, I was always inspired and into vintage pieces. I was also looking for rare designer vintage pieces to add to my archive as my auntie used to collect vintage too – we did it together and shared the same passion. Then I started studying fashion and from that point I knew that my ultimate goal was to have my own brand where I would be able to create my designs.
Talk us through the concept?
Oceanus is all about vintage evening wear and swimwear that evoke a sense of timeless elegance and nostalgia. Our designs reflect the craftsmanship and attention to detail of earlier periods, showcasing a blend of sophistication and glamor.
What are the key elements of your role?
Design and create Oceanus collection and expand to different categories.
Talk us through your daily routine.
I do not have a daily routine and actually wouldn’t like to have one – I like to think that each days is different and a new experience.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
I would say to commit to your dream and everything around making that dream happen. Of course, never let anyone tell you that you’re not good enough or that it won’t work.
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Tell us more about the pieces?
Oceanus pieces are hand-beaded using sustainable techniques by artisans from various parts of the world, including Italy, India, and Bali. Each item showcases unique craftsmanship and reflects a diverse range of artistic traditions and techniques. The hand-beading process emphasizes handmade craftsmanship and ethical production practices, highlighting the skill and artistry of the artisans involved.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
To follow my dream and not let anyone come in the middle
What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
Navigating the demands of running a business without maternity leave while caring for a newborn was incredibly challenging. Juggling the needs of my business alongside the round-the-clock care of a newborn tested my organizational skills and resilience. It involved finding creative solutions like adjusting schedules and seeking support from loved ones. Ultimately, this experience taught me valuable lessons in time management, prioritisation, and the importance of self-care during intense periods of personal and professional growth.
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What’s your future for the brand?
Retail expansion – opening new stores on a worldwide scale.
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Images: Instagram @oceanusthelabel
