When one of our own regional talents dresses the likes of the elusive Ivana Trump, Vanessa Mae and more, we’re surely going to stop and pay heed. Syrian born and Dubai based, fashion designer Rami Al Ali created his debut line in 2000 to become a master in blending Eastern elegance with Western dazzle; a couture creation by Rami Al Ali is the object of every woman’s desire.
Arriving at Rome’s AltaRoma fashion week in 2009, he became the first international Syrian designer to receive an entry into this prestigious fashion event, going on to achieve remarkable success on an international scale.
With a second couture show in Paris, his AW12 collection breeds a new perception of the classical Baroque era: “Elements inspired by an artistic era where passion is channeled into objects of beauty and desire, Shakespeare’s theatre gives way to elaborate opera. Ornamental style and fine detailing create rich visuals. Direct, unambiguous, yet theatrical and empowering. Indulgent lifestyles forever embodied through art. Welcome to the twenty-first century baroque.”
Lucky for us, we managed to steal a few moments with the couturier to tell us more about his inspired work:
Why does Paris hold a special place in your heart?
Paris is one of the most beautiful cities I’ve visited. I’m a great admirer of its history, culture and architecture and places like the Place de la Concorde and the Seine River are very inspirational. After two shows in the couture capital this year I can say that I have accomplished one of my biggest goals and there is no other city worth holding so dear.
How does your A/W presentation reflect the Baroque Era?
My AW2012 collection echoes the Baroque Era through the details in every piece that reflect the lavish lifestyle of that period. I’ve tried to revive the ethereal paintings that I have admired from that era through the use of ornamental embroidery, authentic textures as well a play on colors.
What type of woman chooses Rami Al Ali couture?
My love for fashion was greatly inspired by my mother and sisters. They were strong, confident and feminine and their style had always reflected it. I design for that type of woman, someone with a strong character, grace and elegance and that’s the kind of woman that chooses Rami Al Ali Couture.
Who is your style icon?
Without a doubt, Grace Kelly & Audrey Hepburn epitomize style. They had such a romantic kind of beauty and always carried themselves with grace and confidence with what they wore. They knew how to complement their silhouettes with dresses that emphasised their femininity and they have been an inspiration behind many of my designs.
Who would you love to wear your designs?
It would be an honor to see my designs on either Catherine Zeta Jones or Salma Hayek. I know so many women that look up to them and just like Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn; they too carry themselves with a refined confidence.
Will we be seeing Rami Al Ali couture in Kuwait?
I have a lot of clients based in Kuwait and it’s always a pleasure working with them. I’ve been planning to launch a ready to wear collection but I’m still preparing for that and while you can’t foresee the future, Kuwait could one day be home to one of my stores.
What’s next for S/S 2013?
I’m currently working on my SS2013, drawing inspiration from art exhibitions and places I visit. It will be tough competing against myself after my AW2012 collection drew so much interest and from my sketches so far, I can only hope this collection will be just as loved as the one before. Keep an eye out for it as the last thing I would want is to ruin the surprise.
Visit www.ramialali.com for more information.
