Her latest collection, Noor (Arabic for 'light'), out now in time for all those Eid bashes carries the same ethos that runs through all her collections: elegance and female empowerment.
And designer Kristina Fidelskaya knows a thing or two about dressing the region's ladies in such a manner, having moved here from her native Crimea in 2004. Attending the prestigious ESMOD Dubai fashion school and setting up her eponymous label in 2014, we thought we'd find out more about this creative woman taking Dubai by storm.
Your line looks to empower women, how do you believe it does that?
All Kristina Fidelskaya designs have to be elegant and feminine. Once you wear one of the pieces I believe you will feel more confident and powerful, not only looking good but feeling good too.
How did you get into fashion design? What advice do you have for anyone following in your footsteps?
After studying at Esmod Dubai I decided this is really where my heart lies and what I want to continue doing - designing beautiful clothes for strong women. You have to believe and stay confident in yourself.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of being Dubai-based?
We are still a young brand with Kristina Fidelskaya. Being based here has proven to be an advantage as it is a major international East-meets-West fashion hub, allowing us to cater to all different types of women from such a diverse mix of nationalities and cultures. We always embody our DNA of elegance, simplicity and grace within our pieces. KF loves to embrace all occasions and can this been seen through the launch of our first dedicated Eid Collection, 'Noor'.
Why do you choose to have the clothes made in Italy? Would you consider moving some production to the UAE?
It aligns with the brand as Italy is home to the most luxurious fashion designers, manufactures and production reams that pay attention to the smallest of details in production. Design and a part of production are also worked on at our in-house atelier based in Media City, but the work is carried out in Italy.
What changes in the UAE fashion scene have you witnessed since setting up?
We have witnessed many local talents and fashion brands emerging throughout the UAE, which is great to see so many other creative designers but also means more competition. Since the UAE is so small it does make it more difficult for a designer to succeed and sell. However, Kristina Fidelskaya clients have grown and stayed loyal to all collections showing us that the women here love our unique and exclusive pieces.
Describe the process of creating a new line.
To complete the entire collection it takes around four months. It all beings with inspiration, then the idea evolves to a sketch, leading to fabric selection, fabrics production, making the pattern and finally completing a garment. It has to be top quality luxurious fabrics, which are comfortable and look stunning to wear.
What would you say is the UAE's fashion taste overall?
Dubai's fashion has changed over the years from most women only feeling safe wearing internationally recognised designer labels to now people wanting the unique and exclusives designs from up and coming designers, this makes them a bit more edgy.
What do you have planned for the next 12 months and can you go explain more about your latest collection?
Things are not slowing down.which is just how we like it! A few of the many projects we have coming up include the launch of Kristina Fidelskaya perfume, the opening of our own store in WAFI Mall, moving our office and atelier from Dubai Media City to Dubai Design District, showcasing in Fashion Forward in October, launching a shoe line and presenting the major fashion meets music dance festival 'Sensation Dubai 2016' on November 11th 2016.
What can you tell us about your upcoming collaboration with SENSATION Dubai 2016? How did it come about and what will you add?
This is a huge project for us to be presenting one of the most internationally recognised and favorite festivals in the world. There is a new fashion spin on the festival this year, from us creating a special all white capsule collection, Sensation tee-shirts, there will be hair and make-up stations throughout the event, a 'white carpet' and FROW (Front row) area for the VIP's who enjoy a fashion experience.
What are your top three style tips?
1. Always wear your most elegant clothes, everyday is an occasion to celebrate.
2. Be unique in what you wear and do not follow everyone else.
3. Work with your body type and wear an outfit that fits best for you.
How should one dress stylishly in the summer?
Dress in soft pastel colors, from cute shorts and matching tops to knee length dresses throughout the day.
When should you start thinking about your autumn-winter wardrobe?
The earlier the better! If you have time and see something you like now that is suitable for AW, add it to your basket to make it less stressful for when winter arrives!
THE COLLECTION
The collection, 'Noor by Kristina Fidelskaya' comprises silky charmeuse and sheer georgette creations, courtesy of renowned fabric manufacturer Jakob Schlaepfer, who produces original textiles for international designers and luxury couture brands. With a romantic and ethereal feel, Noor includes floral motifs, delicate lace and soft embroidery combined with contemporary designs, clean silhouettes and refined cuts.
