Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XXI

5 8 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I amongst other women or close family members. The style-conscious Arab woman is an incredibly savvy fashion consumer. She’s well-travelled, well read, and always up-to-date on what’s happening with the latest trends from New York, Milan, Paris and London. In catering to Middle Eastern women who want to stay ahead of trend, Dolce & Gabbana are expanding their options for a market already enamoured of the Italian designers. The brand has a significant presence in the UAE, withmore than a dozen boutiques located in malls and luxury department stores across Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as well as locations in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait. And many of their clientele have been customising their abayas for years, or buying embellished ones from other Western ranges or local designers. So whilst being aware their venture into this line may not be for everyone, Dolce & Gabbana know that there is a core market of Muslim women who want luxury; women who will find great pleasure and validation in having such an esteemed fashion house catering to them. What the duo are offering is diversity and choice for this group – not to mention absolutely stunning clothing. The message being sent is a powerful one: that far from being drab or devoid of style, Muslim fashion can be as beautiful and individual as the woman who wears it. And with this message being broadcast on a global stage, we look forward to even more high-end designers catering to the Middle Eastern fashion market with abayas, hijab and other forms of modest clothing. "The Dolce & Gabbana Abaya Collection is available at all of the brand’s Middle East locations, as well as select stores in Paris, London, Milan and Munich.