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It’s no surprise that Turkish designer Yasemin Akat is considered a leading trendsetter by astute followers of fashion, as her 2013 spring and summer collection features creative spin-offs on this season’s hot looks in flattering styles and colours.
The bohemian chic creator staged a stunning runway show at her boutique in Seef Mall to unveil her latest line and it proved to be a real showstopper by attracting scores of shoppers.
The fashion brand, named for its designer, is one of the retail outlets brought to the kingdom under the umbrella of the Rayan Trading Company because its owner, Abdullah Al Sadiq, is constantly impressed by the style and uniqueness of the label.
He said: “Akat’s designs are different to other styles in Bahrain. The look is suitable for all ages and as a result she has created a great clientele list for us, with repeat business and loyal customers. We have been open for a year now and the fashion show is almost like our anniversary celebration!
“She visits the store around three-times-a-year to train the sales team on how to cater to the clients because her pieces can be worn in different ways. She is a great designer.”
Models dazzled in loose fitting, geisha-inspired outfits, monochrome dresses with oversized buttons and separate pieces in bright orange and soothing earth tones. Her light fabrics are perfect for Bahrain’s scorching summers and a lot of her designs compliment the culture as well.
Fashion critics are impressed by her ability to take baggy and comfortable every-day items and transform them into classy and elegant attire ready to wear confidently around town.
She said: “I prefer to use light fabrics because of the weather conditions and long shapes work well in the Middle East.
“I use darker colours in the winter and brighten up my collection for summer. The women in the region love rich colours. At first glance you may think my style is conservative but it really depends on how you wear it.
“I don’t believe in following trends and why should others? Women should not limit themselves because they think they can’t pull something off. Some think they cannot wear long dresses because they are short. Who says you can’t?
“My designs are about giving women confidence to be free and beautiful. Trust in yourself, because the way your clothes fit is not about beauty, it’s about confidence.
“I love to cater to women of all ages but especially those in their 30s with curvy, full-figures. I find that many labels focus on the slimmer body types but what about women with curves?
“I also provide many separate pieces that can be worn in different combinations. I have a lot of jackets with detailing, shirts, trousers and skirts.
“Perhaps my biggest highlight is the embellishments on the back of my dresses and pieces. The reason I do that is because I want men and women to do a double take when they see one of my outfits pass by.”
How true that was as the models may have looked stunning from the front, but even better from behind. Many shoppers made their way into the boutique as the show went on last week and began taking videos on their smartphones and tablets.
For more information, call 17005020 or visit www.yaseminakat.com
