DUBAI: It has been an exciting time for Lebanese designer Dima Ayad — Italian label Marina Rinaldi collaborated with the label for a special capsule collection, seamlessly fusing the aesthetic of both brands.
The collection features seven silhouettes ranging from shimmery and iridescent kaftans to crystal-encrusted pantsuits. Known for her glamourous yet fuss-free take on evening wear alongside her body-inclusive designs, Ayad has always been a fan of Marina Rinaldi so the collaboration was also emotional for her. Arab News spoke to Ayad in more detail about the collaboration.
“My family and I have been shopping at Marina Rinaldi for as long as I can remember. Their London store was my go-to and the store manager became a dear friend. One day, she called me and asked if I would like to come and meet the management,” said Ayad. She was soon off to London to discuss a collaboration and her thoughts on designing for curvy women.
Ayad believes that only a curvy woman will understand the nuances of that body type and be able to design for it. “I’ve been big all my life, so I know what a woman wants and how to cut for that body,” she said. When designing the line, she kept in mind the quintessential Rinaldi silhouettes and played around with dimensions and embellishments. She pulls out a purple metallic kaftan with feathers on the sleeves and elaborates on how she added the Ayad touch. “The brand does a lot of pleating, but I chose extremely thin pleats because when they’re thinner, they suit all body types.” Elsewhere, a metallic tulle poncho dress with geometric embroidery stands out. She adds that it wouldn’t be an Ayad design without geometric motifs. One of her favorites is a green cape dress made in thick crepe with a U-shaped hem – she adds that it is both flattering and timeless. Not to be missed are the pantsuits, in black and bright fuchsia. Ayad also loves a good evening blazer, and her version highlights rhinestone-encrusted power shoulders. “It also comes with matching pants and the rhinestones are lighter on top and become heavier as you go down,” she said.
