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ON OUR RADAR: MIRI by Mera Anwar

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MIRI is a ready-to-wear brand launched in 2010 by young designer, Mera Anwar. Originally from Pakistan, the self-proclaimed nomad intermingles embroidery techniques from South Asia, lush fabrics from East Asia, contemporary cuts from Europe, and inspiration from the Middle East. Anwar began her career in Paris, where she worked for Finnish designer, Jasmin Santanen, before moving to New York and attending Parsons, The New School for Design. From there on, she started working for reputed designers and brands, such as John Galliano and GianFranco Ferré, while designing her first collection and thereafter freelancing as an assistant designer for J.Crew. Juxtaposing styles, from New York’s city chic to Dubai’s urban glam, Mera Anwar’s intricate lace dresses and eclectic tie-dyes along with the brand’s affordable prices, have garnered growing appeal.

On her signature style.

Effortless chic, with a few quirky elements. My most emblematic items are tie-dye tunic dresses and embellished oxford blouses.

On her love of souks.

A lot of Middle Eastern influences are apparent throughout my collections, whether they come from ethnic embroideries, art, or architecture. One of my past collections for Spring 2012 was actually entirely inspired by the Middle East. I took the beautiful colors, textures, and embellishments from the region—I basically borrowed cultural details and re-interpreted them. The desert always leaves me mesmerized, especially at sunset, when the sun reflects on the sand; that is what inspired my marbled tie-dye tunics. Also, I love going to the souks in Deira [in Dubai], which are filled with vendors from across the region. During my last visit, I discovered vintage lapis lazuli rings and tapestries from Oman. Their intricate design patterns inspired my embroideries.

On her muses and ideal customer.

Edie Sedgwick has always been an inspiration to me; she wasn’t afraid to wear bold prints with oversized accessories and back in the day, she pushed style boundaries. Her distinct style has transcended over time; she has yet to be replaced! The ideal MIRI girl is exactly like this—a confident person, she isn’t afraid to experiment against the trends.

On her new Spring 2014 collection.

The collection is about the modern city girls of Russia, strong and confident, with a doll-like appeal. I’ve mixed feminine elements with a few hard, masculine ones; pairing chiffon silks and opulent laces with neoprene fabrics, for example. While paying homage to the Russian culture, we used Matyroshka dolls as the inspiration behind our prints. The collection features a medley of drop-waist dresses with metallic detailing, statement tassel skirts in bold colors, textured silk blouses, and structured neoprene skirts.

On her upcoming plans in Dubai.

As for our expansion plans, we will be holding a trunk show in Dubai in order to launch a “Holiday” collection, which will consist of embellished cocktail dresses and gowns. It’s the first time that I will design a collection alongside our Spring and Fall seasons. The inspiration behind the collection is old Hollywood glamour, so expect to see a lot of metallic silks and embellishments. When it comes to cuts and styles, we’re aiming for cocktail and maxi dresses to be the center point of the collection, along with embellished caftans, blouses with ornate appliqués, and tuxedo suits in bold colors. Dubai is reputed for luxury and style, and I believe the city exemplifies MIRI in many ways. Middle Eastern culture is all about adornments and rich colors and our holiday collection will bring some Hollywood glamour to complement this. We are still working on the logistics for the event—it will be in November. though, just in time for the holiday season.

www.mirinyc.com

 

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