The Moon and The Girl: Siriano Launches "The Closet" Qatar's new brand identify
New York-based fashion designer Christian Siriano is one of the most-talked about fashion designer of 2015, and his visit to Qatar to launch the new brand identity of luxury multi-brand boutique The Closet at The Pearl-Qatar, was amongst one of the social highlights of the year.
So Christian, is this your first time in Doha? How are you liking it so far?
I love it here! It’s amazing! We have done all the touristy things; today I went to Souq Waqif and I loved how traditional it was. And the food here is amazing.
What do you think of women’s sense of style here in the Middle East?
Women here are very stylish. I love how elegant and feminine they are. The focus here seems to be on the accessories: the shoes and the bags. I love how they really express their personalities through their shoes and bags. I like how fashion forward they are here; they really embrace fashion.
Tell us about the Fall/Winter 2015-2016 collection. What was the inspiration behind it?
For my Fall/Winter 2015-2016 collection I was inspired by the Congo in Africa – the jungle, the rainforest, the wild animals and all the different bright flowers and plants that grow there. I wanted the collection to be feminine and elegant, but in a fun and tropical way.
How would you describe the Christian Siriano woman?
I think we have lots of different types of customers, but I would say the Christian Siriano woman is a woman who has a social calendar. She likes to get dressed up and go out – it’s a look. She is also a little more elegant and refined.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love interior design, so I am always buying new furniture and decorating. I find interior design enjoyable and relaxing.
How would you describe your relationship with fashion?
I think as a designer you simply have to be obsessed with fashion, you have to love it so much, and I do. I love designing, I love creating and I love producing what is essentially wearable art.
What are some of your upcoming projects?
We have just launched a fragrance called “Silhouette” which has been really exciting. Next year we are launching an eye wear range and I will be opening another store in New York. We are always keeping busy.
Finally, have you ever thought about collaborating with a local designer here in the Middle East?
I would definitely give thought to that. I would love to do my own version of the abaya; I think that would be beautiful.
The Closet Qatar is located in Parcel 5, 7 La Croisette, Porto Arabia, The Pearl-Qatar. Opening times are 10am to 10pm. For more information call 00974 4002 8323.
