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By Mariam Nihal
If you are looking to make extreme fashion choices and something out of the box, then make a pit stop at Valleydez on your next trip to Dubai. Known for their selection of unconventional designs we caught up with the founder, Ghalia Abbas, who spoke to us about her vision for the brand and how she turned it into a life size project. Abbas, an Emirati national, launched the boutique in 2009. She talked about a shift in the fashion industry in the region and how it has evolved in the past decade. “In terms of designers, I have watched brands that we have worked with from the beginning develop and grow season after season. I think ladies in the region are experimenting more with fashion and are not afraid of taking risks. They are willing to try on something different, standing out from the crowd and truly finding their individuality through fashion.”
A fashion lover at heart, she professed deep love for the business and her ambition to source unique brands for her boutique in Dubai. “I always envisioned a one-stop destination that carries exquisite collections that truly make women stand out of the crowd. Hence, in 2009 I decided to open Valleydez, a boutique that carries sophisticated, chic and unique brands that are sourced not just internationally, but with a strong focus on promoting the regional talent,” Abbas told Saudi Gazette.
She revealed Valleydez is going to become an online shopping destination very soon making it easier for potential Saudi buyers. “We are currently in the process of launching our eCommerce website set to be live in the next few weeks. We have had a lot of interest regionally particularly from Saudi Arabia and are ready to provide the same shopping experience you find in-store, online.
Abbas described her customers as women who are willing to take a risk with fashion. “Our customers are women of all ages from different backgrounds but they are all confident and daring. They don’t want to blend in with the crowd and proud to express their true individuality. What ValleyDez has to offer is just that - a valley of pieces that are made to make you stand out from the crowd. Each piece is truly unique made for the equally unique shopper.”
Deliberating on the selection of designers, she said she looks for individuality in all of them. “They all have one thing in common – being unique. We look for eccentric collections infused with elegance and luxury. A few designers to watch out for are Khoon Loi, a Malaysian designer known for his voluminous silhouettes. Another one of our favorites is Dubai based label OTT offering a vibrant collection in soft fabrics.”
Speaking about the challenges in the ever-growing fashion industry in Dubai she said her biggest challenge remains to be sourcing unique designers and collections. “We ensure we have a carefully edited selection season after season. We are always on the hunt for new, standout brands that fit right with the ValleyDez concept. This takes a lot of research and can be quite challenging but then again, nothing worth having comes easy.”
Ghalia’s ‘Top 10 must-have pieces this summer’
An OTT printed shirt - perfect for a day out with friends
Paper London striped culottes - these look great with the matching top and a pair of heels
A pair of Kyme embellished sunnies
A Khoon Hoi full skirt for an evening out
a Bebohochic beaded clutch
Avaro Figlio’s one shoulder dress for a summer party
Amina Gallery’s art bags are a must
A chain necklace by Panache
A bright kaftan by Baruni
A gown by Ozlem Suer for the upcoming wedding season
Location: Galleria Mall, Dubai
Website: http://www.valleydez.com/
