If there is one man who knows how to make you stand out from the crowd it’s Julien Macdonald, after all, he is adept at working with divas – Beyoncé, Kylie Minogue and Taylor Swift are among his clientele. However, while his client list reads like a who’s who of Hollywood’s walk of fame, the designer admirably balances high-glam living with philanthropical giving.
Emirates Woman managed to catch up with Julien Macdonald during his Dubai visit to promote his STAR collection at Debenhams. “I always use a touch of animal print,” he said when discussing his latest collection. “Animal print has become the STAR collection’s signature. This time I’ve incorporated leopard print, snakeskin and zebra print.” As we said, he is a man who knows how to make himself, and you, stand out from the crowd, but you knew that already.
However, what you might not know about Julien is that he has received an OBE from Queen Elizabeth II and is an ardent charity fundraiser. In fact just before our interview the 43 year old had returned from a cycling challenge in Madagascar for a children’s charity. “I love taking part in charity events,” he said, “because they can be such small gestures but can make a huge difference to people’s lives.” Here are some other life lessons you probably don’t know about the talented designer…
Style means glamour, sparkle and standing out. I like women who take risks with their style.
Women in the Middle East always want to look great, and are not afraid to be strong and powerful. This region is different to London or Rome where it’s cool to be a bit more dishevelled and edgy with your approach to fashion.
There are stylish cities all over the world! A city that stands out, and that I love to visit, is definitely Miami as the atmosphere is lively and upbeat, everyone is really glamorous and loves getting dressed up for a fabulous night out.
Fashion should never be boring. It’s important to be fun. I think you have to feel comfortable in an outfit, and don’t try to overdo it or look too trendy.
Fashion accessories are essential to a look – a great pair of shoes, a fabulous statement necklace and of course a touch of animal print or sparkle!
Products from the STAR by Julien Macdonald collection
Challenges have only pushed me to improve both personally and professionally. I’ve been very blessed throughout my career and have had some amazing opportunities. I’ve been very lucky.
Always be positive! That’s a great life lesson.
Always be yourself. That’s the best advice I’ve been given. I was something my grandmother always told me and that has stuck with me and is the advice I would pass on to others. I have been lucky enough to dress superstars who are some of the most beautiful women in the world, but I still remember where I came from and have stayed true to who I am.
I’d be a painter if I wasn’t a designer. I studied at Art college so I’ve always been inspired by art and visiting galleries. When I was younger I also wanted to be a popstar – I loved Boy George and Mick Jagger growing up.
Julien Macdonald’s STAR collection is available at Debenhams, Mall Of The Emirates, Dubai and also Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi (the largest Debenhams to open outside of the flagship store in London).
Check out Julien Macdonald’s autumn/winter 2015 show:
For those that missed it, here’s Julien showing off his dancing skills on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2013:
