Despite being a thriving cosmopolitan hub, Abu Dhabi rarely receives the attention it deserves for its fashion scene. Enter the World Trade Centre Mall, which has been built around the already existing and very popular Souk Central Market. Home to 160 high-end boutiques, including Tommy Hilfiger, Escada and M Missoni along with 20 dining outlets and an eight-screen cinema, Fashion Editor Angela ventured to the UAE capital to explore some of the best stores and products the new mall has to offer.
My first stop was Cole Haan, where you will find luxury leather goods including super-cool loafers in lots of bright colours and great handbags, wallets and accessories. The loafers are oh-so-comfy and are made from leather and the soles are made by Nike Air making them a dream to walk in. I’ll have a pair in every colour please.
If you are looking for stunning dresses, fabulous coats and glam accessories then a stop in Karen Millen should be top of your list. This is the perfect store to find an elegant frock for a special occasion with lots of lace and embellished numbers on show. I fell in love with this black winter coat with a faux fur collar – perfect for my next trip to Europe.
The jewel in the crown of the World Trade Centre Mall would have to be House of Fraser. This is the department store’s first venture in the Middle East and it doesn’t disappoint. You’ll find high-end cosmetics and perfumes on the ground floor along with stunning designer bags from brands including Nina Ricci, Celine and Palestyle. Head upstairs and you’ll find a range of luxury designers from Elie Saab to Alice by Temperley and Essa. I purchased this pink frock from Carolina Herrera and added the floral maxi-dress from Vivienne Westwood to my wish list.
Next on the list was DKNY with it’s simple but stunning clothing and fun accessories. There are fabulous handbags to choose from along with cool rings and watches – it’s all about statement accessories. My top pick in the store had to be the range of sport-luxe sneakers, especially the gold ones.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner I popped into Pandora to check out their latest range. I adored the charm bracelets, which you can tailor make. I will definitely leaving hints to my husband for this silver cocktail ring with black spinel stone.
If you’re after fabulous footwear, Vince Camuto has plenty of great options. From flats to boots, heels to handbags, you can purchase your entire accessory wardrobe here. These flat boots are perfect for comfy-chic during fashion weeks as are these colourful ballet pumps with cute bows.
The Ted Baker store caught my eye with its gorgeous window display set up to look like a London high street. Inside I found fabulous frocks in both neon and moody florals, well-cut sheath dresses in black and violet along with elegant bags and shoes.
If it’s high-end shopping you’re after, Rodeo Drive is the perfect place to visit. The stunning store is filled with glamorous pieces by luxury brands including Givenchy, Lanvin, Tom Ford and many more. This lovely pink dress by Lanvin would be perfect for my next cocktail party, and as for this Lanvin fur; it took my breath away.
World Trade Centre Mall more than proves that Abu Dhabi is a thriving fashion hub. Super-convenient it also homes a Spinney’s to purchase your weekly grocery goods and a N Style Nail Lounge to top up your mani/pedis.
My verdict? This mall is definitely worth a visit and I can almost guarantee that your first visit won’t be your last. Happy shopping!
Photos: Ajith Narendra
