The Arab world is notorious for its lavish shopping malls and variety of luxury brand stores, as well as globally renowned couture designers. Over the past decade the region has also welcomed an exciting collective of uniquely curated concept stores; spaces that continue to evaluate the international and regional fashion scenes in the hope of discovering new talent. These boutiques provide a carefully and artfully curated mix of up-and-coming talents and established labels for a visual and educational experience that goes way beyond simply shopping.
Dubai: S*uce & S*uce Rocks
These award-winning multibrand concept stores have been a prominent fixture in Dubai’s fashion scene since 2004. With 6 stores around the UAE, S*uce was one of the first of its kind to support regional fashion and jewelry designers, as well as local artists. Now specializing in a variety of buys ranging from eclectic beachwear to fine jewelry, a trip to Dubai is not complete without a visit.
Photo: S*uce Rocks
Riyadh: Personage
Reinterpreting retail, Personage offers a multi-floor experience with each space specializing in a different theme. On floor one “Vim” is home to clothing and accessories, the fascinatingly named ‘Ooze’ on floor two is a lounge serving food and beverages, and the third (‘Scheme’), is an open space intended to host meetings and a diverse set of events. Spend an afternoon here, musing the fashion – including the Kingdom’s upcoming talent – grabbing lunch and embracing the social experience.
Photo courtesy of Personage.sa
Beirut: Another
Structured as a “living magazine”, which practically translates to a unified space that integrates fashion, food, music, fitness, and beauty, the avant-garde Another was designed by architect Rabih Geha and is a vast retail space for the 21st-century shopper. Sportswear giants Nike and Adidas sit alongside fashion brands such as Maison Margiela, Dries Van Noten, and Helmut Lang.
Photo courtesy of Anotherstore.me
Kuwait: Nass Boutique
Described as “casual and polished, playful and fierce, timeless and new,” Nass offers a unique curation of women’s ready to wear from top global designers, as well as leading talent from the region. Expect to see the latest pieces from designers including Tanya Taylor and Marzook.
Photo courtesy of nassboutique.com
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