By Linah Hashmi

Lebanese Fashion Designer, Amal Azhari

Her talent and infinite passion for design have made Lebanese fashion designer, Amal Azhari acquire an international reputation in the fashion world. After a career in communications for ten years, she decided to pursue her passion in fashion and In 2005, she took the leap and opened Amal Azhari Couture House. With only one employee, she started drawing and designing evening bags along with high-end tunics and caftans.   The success was immediate as the demand for these crafty pieces increased leading to the ultimate recognition in 2006 with the presence of her collection at Paris Fashion Week. She quickly proved that her talent surpassed all expectations. Every summer, she re-questions herself and challenges norms when designing an amazing collection, completely different from what the market offers. Her collections are always imaginative, one-of-a-kind and greeted with overwhelming success. Azhari takes her inspiration from house of Valentino and Christian La Croix, fascinated by their magical combination of colors and shades. Their designs are dedicated to the ultimate modern and glamorous self confident women. Her modern yet romantic twist creates a distinctive approach to her caftans and bags with soft edges. This refined edge and attention to details are prominent in the finishing of her unique pieces. Amal Azhari Couture House’s rising success has earned her a growing international reputation that has been spreading through the media. Her presence in showrooms in Paris and other major cities has allowed her to reach international acclaim and sales worldwide – Paris, London, Saint Tropez, Juan Les Pins, Madrid, Los Angeles, Brazil, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Lebanon.. The brand regularly receives editorial coverage from major magazines like: Elle Oriental (Middle East) – Gala (Middle East) – Layalina (Moscow and Middle East) – Marie Claire (Middle East). Her favourite quote: ‘Fashion changes with time but real style remains…’

I ‘ve worked with Amal Azhari professionally (as a buyer I bought her merchandise to one of the biggest fashion houses of Saudi Arabia) and also know her personally as a friend, so it was an absolute honor and pleasure to interview her for shoesanddrama…

When did you start designing. What makes your kaftans and collection stand out from other arabic kaftans and clothing?

I started production in 2007. The thing that makes my kaftans stand out from other Arabic kaftans and clothing is the graphic designs of the print that are especially designed and colored upon my request and requirements. The selected designs are then sent abroad to India and Europe for printing on a special & luxurious fabrics called Tabby and Habotai . Not to forget the specially hand crafted accessories that you also find in my items.

What was the inspiration for your SS’13 collection

The inspiration of my SS’13 collection which is called ‘Amazonia‘ was animal print from the forests. My inspirations come from all the beauties of life and this time the animals were my selection.

Some of Amal Azhari’s Amazonia collection images…Click on each image for a larger view.

Amal Azhari Amazonia SS13 collection – The peacock print kaftan is an example of the unique & exclusive prints personally designed and created by Amal.

Amal Azhari Amazonia SS13 collection – The butterflies print is one of Amal’s signature prints and favourite.

Amal Azhari Amazonia SS13 collection – A multi colored beauty

Amal Azhari Amazonia SS13 collection – The feathered neck kaftans are my personal favourite in both nude & bright orange!

Which celebrities would you love to see your styles on

I’d love to see style icons such as Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez and talk show guru Oprah Winfrey dressed in my kaftans .

I love the styling and photography behind your campaigns and the locations you shoot at. Do you do them yourself? And what is your favourite location to shoot?

I am the art director of every shoot I do, and prior to every shoot I try to create my own ambiance a week in advance. About the location it depends, every collection has its own spirit & feel.

If you were to collaborate with a designer brand who would it be and why?

ELIE SAAB ! With whom I have a special friendship. I am proud of my friendship with him and his family that is dated back to years. Elie’s designs are characterized by style, fabrics, cuts and embroidery, as are mine! I enjoy being around him, he is so loving, modest, pleasant, despite being a famous International designer.

What stores can we find Amal Azhari in?

You can find Amal Azhari in the following stores in the Middle East: PER LEI COUTURE (QATAR) , CAREL ( ABU DHABI ) , BLUE SALON (QATAR ) , GINGER & LACE ( DUBAI ) , SONSON ( ABU DHABI ) , HARVEY NICHOLS, RUBAIYAT , BOUTIQUE 1.. In Europe: CATHERINE , TRENDS MONTECARLO , COTE MER , RENBCO , AVEC NUANCE , HARFY –F In USA: AVEC NUANCE

Your favourite Middle East fashion countries?

Saudi Arabia, Qatar

What shoes are you wearing right now

Valentino

You can see the rest of the SS13  Amazonia collection on Amal’s official website or shop the collection in any of the stores/countries mentioned in this interview.

Amal Azhari official website: www.amalazhari.com

Amal Azhari facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Amal-AZHARI/115119075264757

You can e-mail Linah Hashmi at: fashion@shoesanddrama.com