Interview with Arshia Khan: Arshys

Molén: who is Arshys by Arshia Khan?

ARSHYS is the brand/label of UAE based fashion designer Arshia Khan. It captivates the senses by effortlessly bringing together contemporary chic alongside timeless classic elegance in an imaginative blend of signature pieces and collections that speak to the modern, fashion aware woman. The label sells successfully through renowned boutiques across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

What is the name of your collection?

The name of my Fall/Winter 2011/2012 collection, showcased through Dubai Fashion Week on the 22nd of April is ---Give me my “Leather” & take away my “Lace”

This collection is high end prêt-a-porter. It takes you through a world of contrasts; masculine vs. feminine, pleats vs. drapes and finally leather vs. lace. For this collection, there were elements fused together from old retro style to newer designs. It almost oscillates between different epochs of time, where in the 80s were the source of inspiration for kaftans with neon, bright colors which were followed by long, loose bohemian shirts and short dresses which the designer relied on for her baroque era inspired collection.

who inspired you (for the last collection)?
For my previous collection, I took inspiration from the 80's that takes you through contemporary cuts, Swarovski studded belts; Perfect for the modern, independent woman, not afraid to indulge in some nostalgic opulence.

which colors, fabrics did you use?
Luxurious silk, soft lace juxtaposed alongside supple leather.The end result is a marriage of the two polarly contrasting materials used in a manner such as to create the illusion of an almost oyster like aesthetic whereby the delicate pearl is encompassed and protected by a hardened shell.The emphasis is on exaggerated shoulders, reminiscent of the 80s. But it’s not all about broad shoulders — rather it’s anything that creates a perfect balance between two extremes be it volume or texture.
Where we can buy your designs?
At the moment some of the pieces from the collection are available at Valleydez boutique at the Wafi Mall in Dubai. Individual buyers can also approach ARSHYS through her website www.arshiakhan.com to purchase her designs.

Molén: Thank you

Thank You!

Thanks to all Dubai Fashion Week Team:

P.O. Box 502718 Dubai United Arab Emirates

+971 4 429-0916

+971 4 367-2686

Rivleen Chadha

Designer Coordinator

Gulf-Hill & Knowlton

P.O. Box 50653 Dubai United Arab Emirates

+971 4 33 44 930

+971 4 33 44 923

Farah Abu-Salah

Thank you!!

Nabrman: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11:Nabrman

Having charmed audiences at DFW last season, the hugely popular abaya label, Nabrman returned with their Fall/Winter line.

Straying away from the conventional lexus crepe abaya material, the creations utilised thick winter friendly fabrics with a geometric grid pattern. Voluminous velvet abayas were interspersed with draped silk in muted colours. The fabric also made its way into a silk abaya in the form of collars and sleeve lining.

Highlights included an abaya with an empire-waist gown and front panelling; abayas draped from the bust with bands of tulle and crepe; a sequence of abayas with frills lining the length of the creations and abayas with tiered frill trimming on sleeve ends and hemlines.

Soft black frills made their way down the length of outfits as they also appeared as as trimmings on sleeve ends and sweeping hemlines. The abayas saw subtle colour infusions as floral attaches on the sleeves and hems in olive, lilac and soft pink.

Modest abayas in contrasting textures of black tulle and silk were accentuated with gentle drapes and soft pleats. With subtle adornments and gentle drapes, the outfits retained their old world charm.

The 18-outfit collection from the 4-year-old label continued to stay true to the Nabrman philosophy of simple elegance.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Ameera Aamer: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11: Ameera Aamer

The 'Amira' collection from designer Ameera Aamer's kitty is a well-balanced mix of abayas and dresses. With outfits in plush fabrics and a riot of colors, the collection pays homage to acclaimed Bahraini fashion designer Kubra Al Qaseer's work.

With international style influences being manifested in her creations, jalabiya-inspired gowns and kimono-like abayas were seen on the runway.

A hot pink ankle length dress was worn with a sunset inspired jacket with green velvet trimming. Outfits in sheer fabric, with contrasting velvet borders were followed by an outfit with alternating tiers of gold patterns and embroidery. Outfits in rich colors of magenta and crimson were paired with jackets and sleeve ends in lighter shades. An outfit in frilly red tulle was paired with a green blouse with gemstones adorning the neckline.

Pullover abayas with patterned sleeves, were followed by a baggy jumpsuit abaya, with batwing sleeves ending in loose trousers. Jacket abayas draped to fall from the bust were held up by embellishments at the shoulder and waistlines. With floral and swirl motifs adorning the draped outfits, the black fabric was also paired with a mirror work under layer, giving the classic outfit a refreshing makeover.

Photo Cortesy: Dubay Fashion Week

Aartivijay Gupta , Parul Chopra and Shriya: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11:Aartivijay Gupta

Aartivijay Gupta's Fall collection features immaculate cuts and intricate embroidery on outfits, inspired by the elegant Indian silhouette. Nude dresses with embroidered necklines followed sheer white tunics worn over gold trousers. Outfits with delicate zardosi work were paired with gold-bordered dupattas.

Salwars were paired with a high collared short pink kameez and a draped yellow tunic with bunched floral formations along the back complemented by coordinated sashes. Anarkali-style tunics, with empire waists and flared skirts in coral, green and white were trimmed with bands of velvet in complementary colours.

Parul Chopra and Shriya

Silk gowns, short dresses, saris and salwar kameezes were on offer as designers Parul Chopra and Shriya displayed their 'Spontaenia' collection.

A short gold halter-top was accompanied by a skirt with vertical bands of purple shades replete with gold embroidery. A sari with an elaborately embroidered ‘pallu’ (end sash) featuring a peacock amongst flowers and ending in peacock feather appliqués, won audience appreciation.

The bridal outfits combined heavily encrusted lehenga-cholis with veils of burnt Sienna orange, moving away from the conventional red seen on the Indian bride.

The 18-piece collection with its royal colours and metallic embroidery provided material for a wardrobe 'fit for a queen'.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Surbhi Jaggi and At A Glance: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11: Surbhi Jaggi

Surbhi Jaggi, former winner of DFW’s Emerging Talent, showcased her line of abayas and started off the last day of Dubai Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2011. The 'Maharani Collection' fused Indian cuts and silhouettes into the abaya through touches such as Mughal detailing on the bust and a sari-inspired abaya featuring an over the shoulder sash in sequinned black. Wraparound abayas with pink brocades and abayas with multihued cowl necks paired with chunky gold earrings and waist chains, were some of the highlights.

At A Glance

A-line dresses in white with black and green back panelling were showcased on the runway, as designer duo Lamees and Eman Al Hajri, presented creations from their label ‘At A Glance’. Sheer shirts were paired with foliage-inspired sequinned harem pants and bubble skirts in solid colours. Strong shoulders in leather were alternated with fluffy fur sleeve detailing. Fabrics were combined in innovative ways including an outfit with an uneven white fur panel over a leather dress with a lace collar. A bridal outfit of plissé fabric and bunched tulle layers brought the show to a close. The outfits were complemented with jewellery by Sharmela Puri.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

El Deseo: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11:El Deseo

For the second time at Dubai Fashion Week, Fatma Mehdi Al Majid dazzled audiences with her 38- piece collection from her label ‘El Deseo’.

Working primarily with pure chiffons and silks, the embellishments on all the outfits were hand-worked.

TV personality Uma Ghosh-Despande wore the show opener - a short wine gown, artistically wrapped with a crystal-dusted sash.

The collection also included nine abayas with wide sleeves, lace busts and bands of fabric running down the sleeves. An abaya with concentric circle detailing on the bust-line and voluminous sleeves and abayas with flowing capes, brought about touches of glamour to the traditional Arabic silhouette.

Twisted straps held up outfits with thick folded fabric bust detailings. These creations were in a variety of hues ranging from crimson and deep blues and greens to soft peaches and fluid black outfits. Outfits inspired by the Indian sari saw yards of fabric being gathered at the waist and allowed to flow over the shoulder.

Indian actress Geeta Basra wore the showstopper, a short black gown with an extended hem of sheer fabric sporting exquisite crystal work.

El Deseo's Fall line aims at transcending cultures and extending the brand appeal to a larger global audience.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Hadi Katra Couture: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11:Hadi Katra Couture

With creations of satin, taffeta, muslin and lace, the Fall line from Hadi Katra paid homage to women, who have inspired countless art forms over the ages.

The show opened with a ruffled dress of purple and pink held up with bands of silver along the neckline. A single-shouldered dress with tiers of patterned chiffon and ribbon trimming was followed by a dress with rectangular flaps at its hem.

Animal prints were seen in a number of outfits including a zebra-floral print dress, a single-shouldered draped leopard dress as well as triangular snakeskin side panels on evening gowns.

Long gowns in coral, red, yellow and pearl were adorned with oversized bows, frilly patterned and ruched fabric panels. Leather prints on grey tulle were used in lavish gowns as well as an underlayer in one of the bridal outfits.

Two outfits from the bridal collection were displayed, including a completely ruffled bridal dress with subtle pearl and silver embroidery, followed by a puffed outfit with a sequinned bust, incorporating layers of sheer grey tulle into the traditional white wedding gown.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Anum Moosa: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11: Anum Moosa

18-year-old designer Anu Moosa made her debut at Dubai Fashion Week with her collection 'Ghost Creepers'. With heavy Goth and punk rock influences, the outfits were influenced by the likes of Vivienne Westwood. Moosa, a second year student at ESMOD Dubai, uses spike studs as they were seen on structured jackets, as well as leggings and short skirts. The collection, with its fierce 70s influence also saw a few creations in soft fabric with embellishments and sweeping hems in knitwear. Soft crochet knitwear was paired with polyester and leather to provide a wardrobe for the woman who confidently flaunts her darker side.

EM-ME

Mexican born Marie Carmen Fallaha believes in prioritizing comfortable style above all other design elements. Hand-knitted cardigans in dark colours were worn over printed jumpsuits as over-sized cashmere tunics were paired with leather leggings. The outfits were worn with pumps and purses in matching hues. Emphasizing on effortless chic, the prêt line saw baggy tops with hearts, blades and lip-shaped motifs in soft fabric with loose silk trousers. Highlights include voluminous single-sleeved dresses and outfits in shimmery wool with short hemlines bathed in sequins.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Jaya Misra: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11:

Jaya Misra

Day 4 of Dubai Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2011 opened with Kolkatta-based Jaya Misra presenting her ‘Navratna’ collection from her label, Lustrouz. Known for her delicate and exquisite embroidery, her line-up was in colours reflecting the 'Navratna' or the nine precious gems from Indian mythology.

Highlights included a long skirt in autumn palettes paired with a long sleeved tunic; a gown of pale green paired with complete pearl sleeve ends; a long tunic in black and grey with a bust of velvet patchwork lined with crystals and an ‘Anarkali’ outfit with a high bust, flared skirt in deep bluish-velvet and turquoise.

Large turquoise stones accentuated solid coloured saris, as did intricate zardosi detailing at the ends. Traditional salwar kameezes in pink, red and forest green saw fabric baubles at the ends of the dupattas.

Bridal lehengas in rich fabrics were presented for the modern bride with the traditional red base combined with gold and purple.

The showstopper was a corset paired with a skirt of alternating layers of red and yellow tulle and an overlaid with gemstones and floral appliqués.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Gulzeb: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11: Gulzeb

The crème de la crème of Dubai’s Pakistani community were in attendance to support the debut of Gulzeb Asif at Dubai Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2011.

The stunning 37-piece collection comprising dresses, salwar-kameezes, lehengas and kaftans bore exquisite hand beading and crystal embellishments. Asian model Kiran Malik opened the show with a short red dress sporting a voluminous skirt. Kaftans in vibrant orange and forest green were followed by one-shoulder dresses in dual shades.

Encrusted necklines and bands running down the front set off dark-hued dresses. Salwar kameezes paired with narrow and wide trousers carried golden embroidery and embellishments that were set off by thin brocade borders.

A long black ‘kameez’ (tunic) with teardrop gold appliqués was paired with red trousers, followed by a series of salwar kameezes in rich purple and coral, trimmed with aqua piping. A black and fuchsia outfit with a matching ‘dupatta’ (stole) won wild audience approval.

The showstopper, a heavily embroidered red and green lehenga with a multi-hued dupatta, was worn by Pakistani TV personality, Mahroon Baloch, who was accompanied by actor Adnan Sidiqqui.

Drawing inspiration from everything around her, Gulzeb presented a primarily Eastern ethnic collection with hints of Western design elements.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Faheema K and Modest: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11: Faheema K

Faheema Kader – the first ever designer from South Africa at DFW - showcased her Fall/Winter line, titled 'Gold Rush', inspired by the country’s mineral wealth. The collection was lavish in its use of sequins, as embellishments found their way onto necklines, hemlines and along sleeves. Wide pants in black lace were worn over gold leggings, paired with corsets and elbow length gloves.

Highlights of the show included a long silk olive coat paired with a black skirt featuring gold polka dot appliqués and a tailored suit with red piping and matching back panel, offering a sneak peek into her upcoming men’s fashion collection.

‘Modest’ - Aisha Al Aleeli

Drawing inspiration form various cultures, Aisha Al Aleeli’s ‘Modest’ included a grey Grecian gown front panel combined with the black abaya silhouette; an exquisite pullover abaya with kimono sleeves and brocade piping and an Indian-inspired abaya, with sari-like draping accompanied by a floral, Swarovski-studded shayla. Other innovations included abayas with almond-shaped orange and grey appliqués and an abaya with a diagonal leopard print.

Paula K: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11:Paula K

Lebanese designer Paula K's collection followed the concept of ‘Metamorphose’, a style that infuses elements of multi-functionality into every outfit.

With black dominating the collection, the outfits were presented to mood-inducing music. Kicking off with jersey gowns in Grecian styles, models danced barefoot on the ramp, twirling in tune to the music to enhance the outfits. The soulful collection saw earth tones on brown and black being draped in graceful styles. An outfit saw a conventional white shirt knotted at the waist with a sheer black lace back paired with black trousers. Models walked on to the ramp from amongst the audience, keeping crowds constantly on their toes.

The collection – fluid and natural - takes a woman from a casual look to eveningwear by simply altering the draping styles.

The creations mirrored the multi-faceted personality of the modern day woman, using kitschy capes and jackets made from various uneven fabric pieces.

Influenced by Lebanon’s heritage and mythology, the models were adorned with copper headpieces and waistbands, keeping with the ethereal feel of the collection.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Shrekahnth: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11: Shrekahnth

Having launched his first collection at DFW 2010, Shrekanth returned with his futuristic 3D-themed 2011 Fall/Winter line.

Flowing outfits were accompanied by elaborate head-dresses influenced by planetary symbols. With digital prints ranging from the natural to abstract images of space, the outfits utilised muted winter shades with dashes of colour in the form of geometric patterns.I nspired by Filippo Marinetti's ideas on futurism, the 24-piece collection presented straight silhouettes and futuristic cuts.

Known for his signature digital printing and his meticulously researched designs, Shrekahnth's outfits once again used minimal embellishments and allowed the prints to hold on their own.

Control boards and military-inspired prints representing the machine age were teamed with multi-hued patterned piping. Jumpsuits with astronomical patterns were followed by structured long dresses in satin and Habotai (China silk).

Models sashayed to the soundtrack of Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece, ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’, as the Shrekhanth logo glowed in 3-D in the background. The audience was asked to wear supplied 3D glasses, as outfits with fluid patterns created the illusion of movement on still fabric. Shrekanth announced plans to start an accessories label, ‘Medusa’, which will comprise handmade creations from Germany.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Emerging Talent Show: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11: Day 3

Dubai Fashion Week’s Emerging Talent show, comprising six names to watch out for, kicked off the third day of the Fall/Winter 2011 line-ups.

Azdan Zandi with her 9-outfit collection, inspired by lilies fused modernity with feminine grace. Her outfits were classically feminine, incorporating futuristic detailing and sharp cuts. Outfits in lamé, black and white featured in the collection. One shoulder dresses rode up to reveal lamé inner-sides. The collection with its formal and eveningwear outfits were complemented by puffed hairstyles and dangling crystal earrings adding a touch of opulence. An innovative dress with a separate neckpiece that could be modified and worn in different ways to change the look of the outfit won audience approval.

European designer Anna Gurgacz, presented audiences with a blend of lavish Arab designs and simple European fashion. Inspired by the fuchsia flower, the outfits came in multiple hues of pink. Tiered-sleeves were accompanied by stiff hip attachments and belts with intricate knit work. The outfits utilised stretch fabric, satin and crepe. Chiffon sashes were draped around the outfits giving them a soft touch.

Debutante designer Sarah Mrad presented her 10-outfit collection for the petite woman. Borrowing heavy French influences that manifested as short figure enhancing outfits and frou-frou dresses were adorned with bows, buttons as well as laser cut flowers. The 50s and 60s inspired dresses in muslin and tulle were reminiscent of old school Hollywood glamour.

Fresh designer Kay Li, dazzled audiences with her upbeat collection of 8-pieces that used traditional Fall fabrics such as wool and leather. Bubble skirts with sharp cuts were paired with pleated bodices. Symmetrical panelling made its way into narrow trousers as well as structured jackets. A backless pocketed gown with burgundy appliqués on the bust was followed by pin-tucked pants in grey accompanied by a grey coat with leather shoulders. Extensive zipper and pocket detailing added a futuristic edge to the collection.

Sophie Wanney's 9-outfit nature-inspired worked with minimalist designs aiming at the bold and powerful woman of today. Cropped jackets were paired with straight pants as panelled shirts with symmetrical patterns were paired with A-line skirts.

Sara Al Rafai’s 5-outfit collection infused colour and stylish cuts into the wardrobe of the young Arab woman. A black abaya with red bust appliqués opened the show. Dresses inspired by jalabiyas and abayas followed in hues of salmon, green and camel were paired with puffed sleeved bodices and long jackets.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion Week

Jeanine Haute Couture: Dubai Fashion Week

DFW FW11: Jeanine Haute Couture

Drawing inspiration from the pearl, the Jeanine Haute Couture Fall/Winter line up promises nothing short of luxurious elegance. The 40-outfit collection extensively made use of organza and chiffon along with tulle and Chantilly lace. Strategically frazzled lace was used in a bridal outfit as well as ruffled crepe in an evening gown.

The bridal collection made use of stiff bodices teamed with lavish flowing skirts and sequinned veils. Pearls were arranged intricately to form rose figures at the shoulder and layers of crystal were used to add an extra touch of glamour to the traditional white gown.

Outfits in shades of grey, beige, white and black were embellished in complementary hues. A black scoop neck dress with beaded piping at the sleeves and neckline was followed by classic empire waist dresses in flowing silks. Innovative twists came in the form of a practical veil for the bridal collection as well as a separate neckpiece with attached sleeves of its own.

The theme of pearls was evident in every creation, as pearls were worked into every outfit in the collection, from bordering sleeves and hemlines to outlining appliqués and chains of pearls woven in between Chantilly lace. The outfits were complemented by the models' Grecian hairstyles.

Photo Cortesy: Dubai Fashion week