Image courtesy of Hyku
She jetted into the region to host an intimate appearance where she revealed all about her impressive 30 years in the fashion industry – and Naomi Campbell made sure to give a nod to the Middle East’s design talent as she did so. The British supermodel, who kicked off Vogue Loves Fashion Avenue‘s 10-day calendar of events on Thursday, took to the main stage at The Dubai Mall for a conversation with Vogue Arabia’s Editor-in-Chief, Manuel Arnaut.
The 48-year-old didn’t need much help taking center stage, as she enraptured the audience with anecdotes from her wide-reaching career, but her statement, orange-infused ensemble certainly helped. Plucked from Hussein Bazaza‘s Spring 2019 collection, Campbell’s outfit comprised of a classic white shirt with a black-trimmed, untied, bow, an intricately beaded cropped halter top, and a pleated midi skirt imagined in vibrant orange against blush pink.
Image courtesy of Hussein Bazaza
“It is the second time she has worn the brand,” Lebanese design Bazaza revealed to Vogue.me, sharing an exclusive sketch of Campbell in the outfit. “I know that no matter how many times she is dressed in my designs, it will always be an insane form of flattery and definitely the happiest moments in my career.”
During her appearance, Campbell discussed everything from her humanitarian endeavors to why she still feels nervous taking to the catwalk, decades after first stepping on one. The supermodel’s on-stage conversation formed the launch of Vogue Loves Fashion Avenue, a 10-day celebration of The Dubai Mall’s 10th anniversary, which includes exclusive talks with celebrities and style icons, masterclasses from industry experts, and live performances.
It was an insightful – and at times emotional – start to proceedings, as Campbell became overwhelmed while talking about Azzedine Alaïa, the late Tunisian couturier whom the model shared a close bond with. “Yes, this is my papa that died one year ago on Sunday and this is the man that raised me when I was 15 years old and up until last year…” the star said, looking up at a picture of the designer. Voice breaking, she continued, “I have so much respect for him. For me, he was the most unique designer in the world. He was very non-judgmental. He was a perfectionist and he did his own shows on his own time.”
See the full live stream of Campbell’s appearance below.
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