Boutiques Archives - Undefined Declarations

UD Insider: Valleydez Gives Creative Designers an Outlet to Shine in Dubai’s Fashion World

Valleydez launches its first ever art competition for aspiring and talented designers.

High-end designer boutique gives artists a life-time opportunity with its first ‘Dare to Create’ art competition

High-end designer boutique – Valleydez is sponsoring an art competition titled ‘Dare to Create’ in an effort to promote aspiring and emerging artists.

The art competition requires participants to submit an illustration, photograph or any piece of artwork by the 15^th of March, 2015.

The winning design will be have t-shirt printing on eight different T-shirt styles, which will be sold at the luxury Jumeirah boutique.

Sidra Surmed, Creative Executive at Valleydez boutique explains that the design entries will go through two rounds of elimination. She says: “The art competition is divided into two parts. The first part comprises of submitting an art piece – it can be a photo or a painting – then the candidates will be shortlisted. Once the candidates are shortlisted, we will contact them and then they will be asked to create a story of eight pieces.”

Each shortlisted candidate will have to create a collection based on a theme of their choice. “Within the eight pieces, you have to summarize you story. What is the theme behind your collection?” Sidra continues.

A judging panel of designers based in four different countries will be in charge of the second round of elimination. “We have four different designers in the judging panel. One is Lamya Abedin – also known as Queen of Spades – an Emirati designer, another designer from Turkey, another from Kuwait, and one from the UK – Jean-Pierre Braganza.”

Valleydez Creative Executive, Sidra Surmed.

Founder and Head Buyer of the innovative luxury boutique, Ghalia Al Abbas is an Emirati fashion illustrator herself. Sidra explains what inspired the boutique owner to launch the art competition. She says: “She wanted to relate something which is very personal to her.”

With March being the month of art in the city, Valleydez decided to launch its first ever art competition during the art season. “We decided to run the competition in the month of art in Dubai. March hosts Art Dubai and Design Days events. I think that people look forward to attend all these events and they get inspired. So we wanted to give a proper platform at a proper time.” Sidra explains.

The launch of the Jumeirah boutique art competition was also inspired by the brand’s aim to introduce an eclectic mix of styles into its collections.

With the summer season approaching, the concept of a T-shirt design competition seemed very appropriate. “We wanted to do more casual chic at the moment because now we are entering into the summer phase. And we wanted to bring a more cool side to the store and brand.” Sidra explains.

Many of the outfits and accessories at the store are art-inspired pieces.

Supporting aspiring artists and designers from within the UAE is the main purpose of organising the competition. Sidra says: “Valleydez want to give the platform to the aspiring talents to showcase their work.”

Breaking into the design and fashion industry in the UAE can be a lengthy process. That’s why, having the support from a well-known brand can be highly rewarding. “Being in the creative industry takes a lot of courage to get into the industry.” Sidra says.

She continues: “Providing a platform for creativity is a great bonus for anyone wishing to enter the industry in the UAE.”

A highly artistic piece by Paris-based designer, Manish Arora on display at the Valleydez Sunset Mall showroom.

The art competition is open to all age groups and participants can submit artwork of any type. “There is no specific form of art that we are looking for. It should showcase the artist inside of the person. This includes photography, pop art, fashion illustration.” Sidra explains.

In addition to having their artwork printed on T-shirts, the winner will get the relevant promotion and PR support from the brand. Sidra says: “There will be total support from our PR side and from the media side. We would definitely love to feature them in the magazines, because that would be a very good idea to promote the artist within the industry.”

As for whether the profits from selling the T-shirts will go into charity, the brand is considering that. Sidra says: “About the charity, we will reveal it soon. We are definitely having some talks, but I can’t reveal that at the moment.”

The winning design will be launched as a new collection in the store. “It will be launched as a new collection – as a brand to the store.” Sidra explains.

To submit art work, visit the following link:

http://valleydez.com/Art-Competition/

The high-end designer boutique is launching new styles that are very quirky and very elegant at the same time.

Valleydez Creative Executive, Sidra Surmed, is wearing an art-inspired design by UK-based designer, Jean-Pierre Braganza.

The high-end store promotes art and design within the UAE’s art and fashion scene.

The boutique hosts a large collection of casual chic designer pieces.

The high-end boutique hosts a mix of styles, from day wear to evening gowns and beach essentials.

The five year-old luxury designer boutique showcases the work of both local and International designers.

Original artistically-designed pieces decorate the shelves of the high-end designer boutique.

“We will be having an in-store event on the 23^rd of March in which we are launching our SS15 collection, titled: Garden of Fashion.” Sidra concludes.

UD Insider: TheDressRoom.com Celebrates its Second Anniversary

A selection of designer evening dresses at thedressroom.com's JLT showroom — A selection of designer evening dresses at thedressroom.com’s JLT showroom

Online Designer Store, TheDressRoom.com opens the doors of its JLT showroom to Dubai residents for two consecutive days

The Dress Room designer boutique is one of Dubai’s hidden gems. Since the concept of online shopping is new to most people from the UAE, the Jumeirah Lakes Towers-based designer boutique was launched a year ago to support the online store; TheDressRoom.com.

The web site started two years ago, and an event is being held at the JLT showroom to celebrate the online store’s second anniversary.

The event takes place on Saturday, February 28 and Sunday, March 1^st at the Jumeirah Business Center two building in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai.

Visitors can have a look at the various dresses on display, get their nails done, or participate in spiritual and wellness activities at the designer boutique’s showroom.

Dina Daryani, Owner and Managing Partner of TheDressRoom.com explains the inspiration behind creating the online designer store: “We saw that there’s a need for occasional dresses. It’s very difficult to find something that’s nice and suitable, that’s not very expensive.”

She continues to explain the online store’s concept: “It’s a hassle free thing; you can find a beautiful dress for a reasonable price, and you can find a huge variety to choose something that’s suitable for you.”

The online store specialises in affordable occasional dresses and caters mainly to the Arab and Indian clients. Dina explains: “You don’t usually wear these dresses often, so you don’t want to spend so much. That’s why we offer dresses that are great value for money.”

The Dress Room’s web site hosts a total of 3,000 dresses for various formal occasions, ranging from wedding, engagement, prom or graduation parties. At the JLT showroom, a selection of 300 pieces from different designer brands is displayed.

The concept of an evening wear online boutique is still new to the Gulf and Arab region. Dina observes that most women prefer to visit an actual store to try out the outfits and find their perfect fit. She says: “Our friends and people around us are more comfortable buying these fitted dresses from the showroom.”

Dina is optimistic about the future of online shopping in the region, and thinks it’s only a matter of time before people get used to it. “There is a huge potential for the online business, and I think it is growing. It just needs time.” Dina says. “The showroom is helping people in being more comfortable to buy online.”

Dina Daryani, Owner and Managing Partner of thedressroom.com

Dina's dress is by New York-based designer ‘Jovani’, one of the dresses displayed in the JLT showroom. — Dina’s dress is by New York-based designer ‘Jovani’, one of the dresses displayed in the JLT showroom.

Priyanka Nihalani, Operations and Marketing Manager for TheDressRoom.com further explains the site’s concept: “There are about eight to ten different designers on the web site right now. One of our main designers is Jovani.”

The Dress Room currently showcases the dresses of two Dubai-based designers; Hema Kaul and Duchess by Jelena.

The online concept supports talented designers from all across the globe. “Wani, an Australian-based designer develops her creations in Australia, produces the garments in India and sells them in Dubai.” Priyanka explains.

While the concept of an online evening wear store is still new to this region, Priyanka has faith that clients will eventually begin to shop online. She says: “E-commerce is the future. So we’re trying to make it easier for people who don’t have time to actually shop online and find whatever dress they’re looking for at any given time.”

The Dress Room’s web site supports local designers by connecting them with interested buyers and facilitating the selling process for them. In addition, the web site provides local designers with a portal to reach International clients.

While the concept of online shopping is still in its inception in the UAE, The team behind The Dress Room have managed to introduce it to the residents of the JLT neighbourhood and the rest of the UAE in a highly creative and appealing way.

The boutique hosts a wide selection of special occasion dresses by local and International designers.

Thedressroom.com offers its clients an affordable option between high-street and high-end fashion.

A dress by American-based designer Jovani at the entrance of the Dress Room’s showroom.

Dubai Boutique and Cafe Review: Spontiphoria

Spontiphoria: a combination of Spontaneous Euphoria or “Sudden Joy” is the idea behind the creative name of a newly opened concept store in Al Wasl Square, Dubai.

Spontiphoria is a home-grown unique store that effortlessly blends the convenience of a boutique and cafe concept. The bright and inviting decor of this boutique/cafe was the first element that caught my attention. I absolutely adored the vintage-style wallpaper, neat seating arrangement and overall fresh and elegant look of the store.

Managing Director Sidiqa Sohail spoke to me about the store’s concept, baked items offered in-store and other products, as I sipped some soothing lemon ginger tea and sampled delicious treats. Sidiqa wanted to bring something new and unique to the market, hence the idea of a boutique and cafe in one store. There’s even a bakery at the store where wholesome baked goods are freshly made every morning. Sidiqa; who started baking at age 16 can also be seen wearing a uniform and baking some specialty desserts. During our lovely conversation about her store and studying in the UK, I got to try out an Oreo and Nutella trifle. Which I must admit was simply divine! Another genius creation and specialty of the store are the unbelievably light and tasty Nutella cookies.

No Sugar Added to the Nutella Dessert

The great thing about Spontiphoria’s baked goods is that they follow home-made recipes; and that their Nutella dessert doesn’t contain any added sugar. Apart from the sweetness of the Nutella chocolate and other ingredients, no additional sugar is added to the recipe. This makes for a delightful guilt-free dessert that tastes so wonderfully light and gratifying!

Jumeirah-born Concept Store

Having opened only one month ago, the store is a unique addition to the Wasl Square block. While most Dubai cafes and boutiques offer similar commercial products and services, Spontiphoria brings in a new range of products and services which are home-grown and authentic.

“Our desserts and baked items’ focus is home-made and wholesome, and within that range falls both eastern and western desserts.” Explains Sidiqa.

Beautifully embellished Eastern Kaftans and stylish evening gowns can be seen on the racks at this airy and bright store. The outfits, accessories and gifts are imported from various countries in the U.S. and Europe.

Breakfast Spot

Since the store is open from 8 am, it would be a good place to start your day in a relaxed setting (classical music playing in the background) and in an unconventional way.

Freshly baked croissant and juice or coffee would be ideal for a place like Spontiphoria. Also, make sure not to miss out on the traditional “Karak Chai” that is freshly brewed twice a day (in the morning and at high tea time).

Window into Eastern Culture

There are countless International cafes and franchise chain stores scattered around Dubai. But what this city lacks is an authentic concept that gives visitors an opportunity to experience and uncover a broader and more cultured type of cafe and boutique.

Sidiqa wanted to introduce a different and unique type of store to the generic and International cafe scene in Dubai. And I believe that she has succeeded in doing just that. Because the last thing this city needs is another International cafe chain or fully imported boutique name.

If you would like to have a different kind of afternoon tea in a chilled and bright setting, want to start your day with home-made goodness or just happen to be in the area, then I would suggest that you drop by Spontiphoria for a rich insight into the opulent Eastern style and food culture.

I would highly recommend this spot for Western expats who are new to the region and unfamiliar with the Eastern culture. As Spontiphoria offers visitors an authentic taste of the region’s extravagant style and food scene.

Contact Details

Web site: http://spontiphoria.com/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/spontiphoria?fref=ts

Location: Wasl Square, Jumeirah, Dubai.

Dubai Chocolate Boutique Fairy Tale: Debauve & Gallais

In a city that attracted thousands of International brands from across the globe to open branches in its glamorous and shiny malls, it’s no doubt that the chocolatier of the kings of France – Debauve & Gallais has opened its first regional flagship store in Dubai.

Brand History

Debauve & Gallais, a brand that carries a strong history behind it, is certainly not just another gourmet chocolate brand. Dating back to the year 1800, when “Debauve” – pharmacist of the King Louis – opened a chocolate factory with his nephew, Mr. Gallais. The quick success of this factory made it the appointed supplier of the Kings of France at the time.

The specialty French Royal Chocolatier’s flagship Paris store of almost 200 years still stands at Rue des Saints-Peres and is inscribed in the French Historic Monument List.

Since the brand is the renowned chocolatier of the Kings of France, everything about this delicacy follows the spirit of the French Royal life style. Strongly inspired by Marie Antoinette and the lavishness of her era, expect nothing less than authentic French designs, porcelain vintage ornaments, hand-painted ceiling and wall coverings and original antiques.

An eye for quality and attention to detail are what differentiate this chocolate brand from all others in the industry, and are highly reflected in its products, packaging and boutique. Debauve & Gallais stands in a category on its own and is considered the most exclusive chocolate brand in the world.

I was delighted to accept an invite to visit the brand’s Dubai flagship boutique located in DIFC, and open since February 2nd, 2012. Over superior quality and rich hot chocolate and chocolate pistols, I had a very enjoyable and interesting conversation with the brand’s Business Development Executive; Nahid Ghahary. Nahid introduced herself to me and explained her passion for everything French; from the language to the culture to of course the chocolate 🙂 She described the brand as a “chocolate through chocolate experience” meant for exclusive clients. These clients include upscale people interested in luxury and different experiences. Such as upscale families who don’t mind spending in return for great quality. They also cater to big corporate clients and make elegantly packaged corporate gifts for those clients.

Information about the Chocolate

With over 2,000 recipes, you’re sure to find a flavor that will keep you coming back for more. As Nahid told me “it’s addictive!”. But don’t worry about the calories, as the cocoa pods used in making this gourmet chocolate are among the top 5% luxury cocoa pods. And the cocoa type and sugar used are of the healthy and beneficial type. Unlike most chocolate brands that are creamy and heavy in taste, Debauve & Gallais chocolate has a very high quality and fine texture and taste to it.

And if the above information isn’t enough to make us want to become loyal fans, knowing that the cocoa plantations for this chocolate brand are located in Cuba and Venezuela surely will.

My Debauve & Gallais Hot Chocolate and Chocolate Experience

I don’t recall ever tasting a hot chocolate as rich and of high gourmet quality as the one that I had during my all-things French and chocolate related conversation with Nahid. The exclusive brand’s hot chocolate is made by adding low fat milk to 72% dark chocolate chips and a touch of cream. The boutique also serves a variety of tea and coffee types.

All the chocolates are hand-made as opposed to using a machine to make them. And the print on the chocolate pieces is a silk print that can also be personalized according to the client’s request. With a price range of AED 11 per piece and AED 850 per kg, evidently this chocolate brand is not made for mass consumption. But for the sophisticated and refined chocolate lovers and connoisseurs.

Best-sellers

Marie Antoinette Pistols (Les Pistoles De Marie Antoinette)
Truffles
Forestiere (pistachio covered chocolate balls)

Boutique Interior Design

The luxuriously decorated interior of the boutique is the creation of Elenora showroom and interior design studio. Located beside Mercato Mall on Jumeirah Beach Road, this design boutique offers a unique selection of furniture, wallpapers, fabrics and trimmings and wonderful antiques sourced from Europe and America.

I was also pleased to meet with Boutique Manager; Niya El Maataoui who was kind enough to talk to me about the different antiques and ornaments spread around the extensively well-decorated space. I will let my pictures do all the explaining 🙂

More Chocolate…

Sadly, my chocolate fairy tale had to come to an end…but my obsession with this exclusive specialty French Royal Chocolatier has just begun!

With a sample gift box of dark chocolate pistols – with the word “Dubai” inscribed on them – from my generous and lovely hosts, I can rest assured that I have my Debauve & Gallais chocolate cravings taken care of. At least until my next visit to this dream land hidden gem.

Honestly, I had such a wonderful afternoon at the boutique with my genuine and lovely hosts Nahid and Niya. And I can’t wait to go back for another magical moment of afternoon tea and one of a kind chocolate and of course lovely and highly cultured conversation.

Contact Information

Web Site: http://www.debauveandgallais.ae/

Facebook Page: Debauve and Gallais – Dubai

Instagram: debauveandgallias

Location:

DIFC, Gate Precinct Building 2

Dubai, UAE