Famed accessories designer Lulu Guinness will open her first Middle Eastern store at the end of this month, in time for Eid, at Souk Madinat Jumeirah in association with Hamac Trading Establishment. The British designer, who is celebrated for her signature kitsch designs, handpicked the location herself and will kit it out in her signature black and white theme with distinctive pops of red.
Talking about the move the quirky designer, who was awarded an OBE in 2006, commented: “I am so delighted to be opening this exciting new store in such a prestigious Dubai location. This store marks a new era for the brand, bringing its essence to life in Middle East. I believe we will create a unique space that will provide a great shopping experience for Lulu Guinness fans, both old and new.”
The spacious 280sq ft store will showcase Lulu’s A/W14 collection in October, in time for the brand’s 25th anniversary. The store will also sell Lulu’s iconic pieces including her famous lip-shaped clutches that have been worn by the likes of Kate Moss and Dita Von Teese. The style-statement pieces are sure to be snapped up in no time by the region’s style-savvy.
News of Lulu Guinness coming to the Middle East was first announced back in March by Dubai’s British Consul General Edward Hobart, as part of GREAT Week, an event that celebrated the UK-UAE relationship held under patronage of UK Trade & Investment in the British Embassy. Though at that stage no dates or times were revealed.
“I am certain the UAE will be the perfect place for the company to grow and gain further global acclaim, given the style and sophistication of the UAE customer. Companies like Lulu Guinness demonstrate that the UK remains at the cutting edge of global fashion, innovation and design,” commented Hobart.
No word yet as to whether the designer herself will be over to officially open the venue later this year, but we’re counting down the days to get our hands on one of her famous It bags.
