It takes a whole other level of optimism to plan a fall or pre-fall wardrobe in Dubai. It’s literally still 40 degrees outside, but that doesn’t stop us. It certainly hasn’t stopped modest fashion creator and architect Alisha B, who already has trench coats on her mind, layers in rotation and an idea of what deserves a place in her wardrobe.
Ahead of the new season, Soigné Middle East caught up with Alisha about dressing for Dubai’s very specific interpretation of fall, the abaya silhouette currently on her radar and the shoes surviving both her wardrobe and site visits.
Which fall trend are you determined to wear, even if Dubai’s weather strongly disagrees?
Definitely trenches. Dubai may be 40°C, but apparently that’s not going to stop me from dressing like I have somewhere to be in Paris.
When it is 40°C outside and freezing indoors, what is your foolproof outfit formula?
I’m definitely a layering girl. Even with a simple T-shirt, I always need that extra layer, whether it’s an oversized shirt, a light jacket or a blazer. I love how it instantly makes the whole look feel more put together. Plus, in Dubai, it’s basically a must with the whole 40°C-outside-to-freezing-AC situation.
Abaya styles are more varied than ever. Which emerging trends have caught your eye lately?
One trend I’ve really been loving is the Mandarin-inspired abaya. I haven’t seen a lot of brands doing it yet, but I love the way the Chinese Mandarin jacket style has been incorporated into the abaya. It gives the traditional silhouette such a fresh twist. I especially loved how MH Boutique did it; they really got the details right.
Does being an architect shape the way you read an outfit? Are you drawn first to its structure, proportions, colour or the smallest design detail?
Being an architect definitely affects the way I see things, and I think it goes way beyond fashion. You start noticing proportions, colours, textures and little details everywhere without even realising it.
When I’m choosing an abaya, I naturally look at the silhouette, the structure, the colour palette and how everything comes together. Architecture has definitely trained my eye, and now I see that influence in everything I do, from how I dress and style my content to the way I look at spaces and even everyday things.
Which trend is everywhere right now but has absolutely no chance of entering your wardrobe?
I don’t think I have one specific trend in mind. I enjoy seeing what’s trending, especially when it comes to content and video editing, but with fashion, I tend to stay true to my own style.
If I genuinely love a trend, I’ll definitely try it, but I usually choose pieces based on what feels like me rather than what’s simply everywhere.
What is the one piece you keep repeating because it makes getting dressed far easier?
For everyday life, especially with site visits and working as an architect, I’m all about comfort, but I still like to look put together. My go-to is usually good trousers, a T-shirt and a layer, styled with one of my favourite bags.
I’m really into quality pieces that I can wear on repeat, and my Alaïa ballerinas are definitely one of those. They’re so comfortable, and I wear them all the time.
What are the building blocks of a modest wardrobe for you?
My wardrobe is about my mood and what I’m drawn to at the time. I get inspiration from everywhere: books, people around me, architecture, nature, even little things I notice in everyday life. Then I always put my own spin on it. If I love something, I’ll find a way to make it feel like me.
