Saudi Gazette

Winner of the Middle Eastern fashion award for Stylist Of The Year in 2015, Teresa Karpinska recently launched the new Style Drifter shop in Dubai. Still in its infancy with limited stock and choices, Style Drifter has huge potential to grow and offer unique brands to the Middle East.

The Swedish stylist moved to Dubai in 2004 and worked as a fashion stylist for over six years. “I styled interiors for The Selby, fashion films for Camilla Skovgaard, a coffee table book for Gucci, numerous editorials for Dior, Chanel and Cartier to name a few. I have also done quite a lot of commercial work such as the 'Hello Tomorrow' campaign for Emirates Airlines,” Karpinska told Saudi Gazette. In a bid to do something different, she ventured into a new business that promised to bring mid-range labels to the Middle East. “I'd like to elevate the bridge between high street and high end and apply my editorial skills to illustrate how the outfits can be worn. I aim for the ‘Style Drifter Shop’ to not just be a shopping platform but an inspiring platform on how to dress and truly express yourself.”

Karpinska defines the unique shopping experience at Style Drifter by its aesthetic and nonconformist style. “Unlike huge multi-brand sites, we're not trying to be everything for everyone. In fact the focus is on creating an evolving edit and stocking a unique selection of pieces. Every month we give fashion connoisseurs the ability to buy relaxed yet memorable ready-to-wear pieces, versatile accessories, quality handbags and shoes from designers never before seen in the Middle East.”

Describing her personal style, which Karpinska refers to, as ‘Nomad De Luxe or Barefoot Luxury’ is an eclectic mix of style and art. “It is highly utilitarian as I don’t believe outfits are supposed to hurt or be uncomfortable to look good or to be fashionable. At the same time I like elevated basics – so think basics but with eye catching details. The common ground for all apparel I buy is that I believe in the best quality for the best value.”

Karpinska plans to expand with more of her favorite Australian and Scandinavian brands. “We also want to launch an online magazine with contributors from all over the world to give the readers a taste of the aesthetic for the country the brands come from.” She hopes to launch her own capsule collection soon. You can now shop online at https://shop.styledrifter.com

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