Beginning her journey in the fashion world in 2006, Manaal Al Hammadi is a designer known for modernly approaching wardrobe essentials and turning them into au gout du jour abayas with a twist.
To launch the Limelight Gala Milanese collection in Dubai, Piaget collaborated with her as one of the four local designers, in order to create two exceptional looks inspired by the watches. Find out more about her Piaget-inspired collection in the interview below.
What was your first thought when Piaget approached you with this collaboration?
Being approached by the house of Piaget was a blessing. And it made me feel as if I was doing something right with my designs because it caught their attention. They embraced the modernity of my style; I cherished their remarkable and iconic portfolio of references.
How did you add your signature style to the common theme?
Introducing my brand’s DNA with such a timeless haute-Joaillerie and watchmaker powerhouse was actually quite easy, because of the modernity of their pieces. Even though they are vintage classics, there is something so modern and in tune with today's trends that made my creations that much easier to build, specifically through the use of fabrics. I worked with fabrics I always use with my collections, such as mesh or laser-cut fabrics. Being able to recreate the bracelet of the watch on an entire silhouette was the most thrilling part.
How did you feel knowing that you were about to reach a whole new audience?
It genuinely made me feel like I was ready for much more. Audiences that are avid fans of haute-joaillerie and watch pieces have a different language than those who are fashion centered. They are connoisseurs, real ones. And so the fact that they took a look at my designs and spoke to me about them in the most intricate ways brought a humble smile to my face. These clients and fine connoisseurs are so in-tune with what it takes to build a masterpiece watch or joaillerie set. And they appreciated the work I had put in to build my looks.
What did you prioritize when designing the Piaget-inspired collection?
It was making sure I respect the guidelines while always remembering to create something that is Manaal Al Hammadi.
Cindy Menassa
