Since the launch of her eponymous label in 2012, Jelena Bin Drai has become one of the UAE’s top designers. As part of Paris Fashion Week, the Dubai-based model-turned-entrepreneur will present her Spring 2018 ready-to-wear collection at the Faux Paris Showroom from September 28 to October 3 – her first time showing in the French capital.
“Showing at Paris has always been important as it’s the number one fashion district and a place to nurture young talent with the best show spaces, mentoring, and enthusiastic promotions,” explains the womenswear designer who was born in Serbia. Ahead of tomorrow’s showcase, Bin Drai exclusively shares the design sketches from her Spring 2018 collection with Vogue Arabia.
“This collection is very close to my heart as I travel to Spain every summer with my family, hence each piece tells a different story,” she explains. The illustrations reveal midi-dresses, tops, trousers, and separates in an array of prints that are sure to find favor among her usual clientele of sophisticated, working women as well as cool millennials. “I feel like this season allowed me to create styles for the younger generation as well as outfits to take you from day to night,” says Bin Drai. The collection features a noticeable focus on ruffled sleeves and shoulder-baring silhouettes, suggesting that the designer has decided to return to her original ethos of princess cuts and pastel hues after her edgier Fall collection. See the looks for yourself in the exclusive design sketches in the gallery ahead.
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