Dubai based fashion designer, Tamara Al Gabbani is a force of nature, who wears many hats whether it’s as a vibrant TV personality, actress, entrepreneur or humanitarian. She has earned many accolades: as Ahlan Magazine’s Hot 100 pioneer, an Emirates Woman of the Year Nominee, Cannes Film Festival’s Best Dressed and as a Pepsi Arabia Influencer. Labelled “UAE’s gem of a talent†she pioneered the first ever TV Special of film festivals in the region, compiling interviews with the likes of George Clooney, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Paulo Coelho, Steve Hickner and many more international celebrities. Beguilingly creative, Tamara always looks the part, and is bang on-trend. She established Dubai’s popular House of Glamo and her eponymous glamorous line, Tamara Al Gabbani, which consists of a scintillating variety of goddess inspired evening gowns, jalabiyas and abayas. The line is au courant, high quality and elegant and was launched at Burj Khalifa and. Tamara managed to sell the entire collection before it had even been viewed. Featured on the cover of magazines in the Middle East, and written about in such impressive international magazines as Vogue, Vanity Fair and Glamour, she is also featured on blogs, and interviewed on TV shows. Furthermore, she is an ambassador for Jaipur Gems and for Givenchy Beauty. Tamara spoke to Afshan Shafi in an exclusive interview detailing her style and her vision for the future
How would you define the term style? What people do you think exude a stylish persona?
Style is the capability of taking the mundane, unnoticeable, insane and even hateful and transforming it into something inexplicably appealing.
Daphne Guinness is someone with an extremely strong and stylish persona, I find her very interesting.
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I have a phobia of fruits and needles. However, I’m an adventurous person and can be quite spontaneous.
What discipline did you receive your education in? How does this aid you in the running of your blog and your label?Â
I have a BA honours in Business & Finance from London. My business degree has added value to all my ventures by providing a foundation for my mind to understand how a business functions. However, nothing teaches you better than experience.
Style is the capability of taking the mundane, unnoticeable, insane and even hateful and transforming it into something inexplicably appealing
If you could swap wardrobes with anyone in the world living today, who would it be and why?
I really love Victoria Beckham and Rosie Huntington Whitley’s styles that are modern as well as classy.
What has been your biggest “pinch me†moment since launching your blog?
Working with DKNY and Harvey Nichols was fantastic. With DKNY, I was the face of their Ramadan campaign and also had creative input on the pieces. For Harvey Nichols, I flew to London to curate a display of my favourite pieces from the season at their store.
Tell us more about your fashion label and about what drives you as a designer.
The brand is an extension of my personality, which is a harmonious balance of both traditional refinement and cutting edge innovation. I wanted the brand to be honest, from the heart and showcase outfits designed according to my own taste. When it comes to my designs, I have a very clear vision of what the collection is going to be, I just see it, it’s hard to explain. It’s almost like a visual dream. I have a knack for predicting trends, so that just naturally infuses its way in.
What are the most fashionable cities in the world according to you?
No doubt, London!
What is your favorite Evening wear /formal look? Which designers do you most enjoy wearing for these occasions?
I love Elisabetta Franchi; her pieces are both glamorous and classy.
Who are your favorite Arab designers and why?
I am definitely one for glamour and opulence! The Arab designers I love are Zuhair Murad, Elie Saab and Mohammed AshiÂ
Who designs the best accessories, in your opinion? Any lesser known brands you think more people should be aware of?
Aura headpieces do amazing head gear. I love bags and accessories from Fendi, Bvlgari & Chanel.
What would be your go-to daytime look? What are your wardrobe staples and favourite designers in this regard?
Carolina Herrera does fabulous daytime looks that are polished, stylish and great for meetings.
What are your most adored pieces of jewellery, both costume and precious?
A Jaipur Gems diamond set and my Chanel earrings.
The 70s are making a comeback this year, so I am excited to try new looks. I am also loving lilac, which is the colour of the season
Who are your real life heroes from beyond the world of fashion?
Princess Diana is a real inspiration for me, she was a tremendous force that did so much good for others and was always beautiful, glamorous and feminine. She was a doting mother and a kind soul.
Who are your inspirations from the world of fashion? Have you met anyone of them and had a chance to have a conversation?
I have had the opportunity to meet Anna dello Russo several times. She is a great woman, a free spirit and does a lot to support up and coming designers. She is also a spiritual person and a dedicated ashtanga yogi. She lives a very colourful life and has great energy.
What is your most favorite fashion show that you’ve attended in person?
My own!
What elements would you say comprise your signature style?
Class, elegance and individuality.
What current trends internationally do you most like/dislike?
The 70s are making a comeback this year, so I am excited to try new looks. I am also loving lilac, which is the colour of the season.
Which people i.e. family, designers, and celebrities would you say have influenced your style the most?
My mother undoubtedly!
All jewellery by Jaipur Gems
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