Inspired by the world and utilizing embroidered fabrics from exotic lands, Mochi was born to support stitching communities and their talented work worldwide. Founded by Ayah Tabari, the designer and her team travel to different destinations around the globe to design and produce each collection.

In doing so, All Things Mochi supports small communities by creating jobs and opportunities for work among these women in the hopes of contributing to their well-being, standard of living and purchasing power. The key pieces developed based on the country of location, like Thailand and Hungary, are definitely one a kind, as only a limited number of pieces are produced for each collection.

In this edition of fashionality, not only do we interview the brand’s inspiring founder, but we also take a closer look at the Mochi Palestine collection. Mochi is proud to have used ancient bright colored embroidery to create tribal chic collections from India, Thailand, Budapest and Palestine. Focusing on a cultural journey by creating modern trend silhouettes, they effortlessly merge eastern and western sensibilities and encourage talent from the communities.

Does fashion ‘make’ the person or does the person ‘make’ fashion?

I personally think that the person makes the fashion. It’s how you wear it, not what it is or which designer it is by. Individuality is key.

How would you describe your style?

I’d say I am quirky but sophisticated, having studied in Europe but spent most of my life living in Dubai, I think I communicate both elements in my style.

How do you get inspiration for your style?

Travel plays a big part in how I get inspired and is also how All Things Mochi began. I love taking different parts of different cultures and expressing them in how I dress. From accessories, to dresses, I have special pieces from all around the world.

What does it take to become a style innovator?

I think it just takes doing something a bit different and also taking a risk.

What’s exciting right now in fashion?

Everything is in – I think for the first time tassels have come back, denim is in, flares, culottes, you name it, you can wear it! I think it is also a very exciting time for emerging talent as there are a lot of young designers on the scene, everyone is wondering who will be the next big thing!

Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?

The communities I have worked with to create Mochi is definitely one, as it is so inspiring to see how starting Mochi has contributed positively to their wellbeing by providing monetary benefits. Another is my mum, she has always been so stylish – as a child I was mesmerized by her beautiful style and pieces.

Who are your favorite emerging designers, and what is it that you love about them?

I have a few – internationally I think the Brit brand Shrimps is doing exceptionally well – the concept is very cool and then locally, Bambah – Maha is a good friend of mine and is also putting herself on the international fashion ladder.

What is the highlight of your ‘style’ career so far?

Every day is a highlight, watching designs go from production to finish but in the last year I would say the two biggest is winning ‘Best Regional Designer’ at the Grazia Style Awards and dressing Cara Delevingne and Gigi Hadid.

Every fashionality has as a style obsession, what’s yours?

It might sound a bit random but I am obsessed with trainers and Nike Air Max.

Do you follow any fashion influencers (Instagram/Blogs etc)? If so, who are they and which would you recommend?

Yes since I built All Things Mochi as a social brand I am very up to date on what fashionistas are doing both locally and globaly as it is very important to always be ahead of the curve. My two favorites are Man Repeller and My Fash Diary, I think Leandra is amazing and being from Dubai, Tala (My Fash Dairy) is really giving bloggers from our region a chance to shine locally and internationally.

What item of clothing (if any) do you wish that people wore more often?

Um, that is a tricky question but I would say a good pair of jeans, you can never go wrong!

To be stylish is to be fashionable. True or False and why?

False, to be stylish you don’t always have to follow the trend – it’s fun to be daring!

Shop All Things Mochi at www.allthingsmochi.com and you can also follow them on Instagram @allthingsmochi.