We take a look inside the wardrobes and beauty cabinets of the region’s most sought-after trendsetters and tastemakers.
Nationality: Egyptian
Profession: Owner of WEST LA boutique
What are your most prized possessions?
A vintage Cartier jewellery set that my grandfather had custom-made to give to my grandmother on their wedding day. I also cherish my Great Grandmother’s vintage clutch, it is hand-made with gold thread, and also a beaded Dior cropped cardigan that my mother handed over to me. All these items have sentimental value, which makes them miles more special.
What are you wearing this summer?
Kimonos and kaftans. I wear them anywhere – by the pool, on shopping trips, to dinner – I love them.
Beauty call:
For my skin I use Vitamin C serum, La Mer moisturisers and Vichy sunblocks. I love Scott Barnes Body Bling, it’s perfect for that golden summer glow. In terms of make-up, I keep it simple in the summer using blusher, concealer, mascara, a shimmering highlighter and something bold on my nails.
Summer packing essentials:
Mileti bikinis, UNIF denim cut off shorts, One Teaspoon crochet maxi-dresses, comfortable flip flops by Tkees and my Jeffrey Campbell platforms for night. I’ll also take lots of NCLA nail wraps, because they are easy to apply and will give me something to do on long plane journeys.
Describe your personal style…
Effortless, comfortable and laid back. My daily uniform consists of denim shorts and cardigans.
How do you spend your spare time?
Relaxing with the people I care about, we could be anywhere and I’d enjoy it. I love Dubai. It has a similar vibe to California but with the added Arabic culture that I was raised with. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
What did opening your own store mean to you?
I could help bring the fun back into fashion here. LA has a distinctive approach to style that works really well in the context of Dubai. Plus there are so many amazing designers who are really shaking up the industry but people aren’t as aware of them yet. I want to expose them to women in this region.
Next up…
We have high hopes for the boutique and a lot of fun things lined up. Right now I really want
to focus on the flagship store and turn Dubai on to the LA fashion scene.
Written by Annah Cuthbert. Photographed by Vikram Gawde.
See more in the September issue of Emirates Woman out now!
