'This year, I've been proud of my achievements as an Emirati'

Emirati couturier and abaya designer Lamya Abedin on 5 things she will remember 2015 by.

1 Memorable collections
2015 has been a gift for me with lots of memorable collections and collaborations of a lifetime. The cherry on top of the cake has been recognition of my achievements as an Emirati. I have always enjoyed dressing celebrities. It gives me the pleasure of taking our national dress to an international platform and displaying it as proudly as the evening gown. My attempt is to make each abaya suit the personality of the wearer and glorify it more and more each time. This year, I have dressed some very well known international celebrities like E! sensation Giuliana Rancic, fashionista Nicole Richie, Disney superstar Laura Marano, American singer-dancer Zendaya and top American socialites Jada Pinkett Smith and her gorgeous singer daughter Willow Smith.
2 Being featured in National Geographic
This year I was featured in National Geographic for representing Dubai's local fashion scene. This once again reiterates my passion for representing my own culture and showcasing it to the world.
3 Being part of Dubai Design District
Earlier in 2015, I joined hands with Dubai Design District (D3), the home to Dubai's designers, artists and creative thinkers. Nothing like being in like-minded company and working towards positioning Dubai as a design hub of the region.
4 Being honoured with an award
An award for your achievement humbles me and makes me proud at the same time. This year I was honoured with the Emirati Woman Achiever Award, as well as being featured in a book with prominent Emirati entrepreneurs from various fields. This recognition is for my beloved country that gives me the opportunity to serve it with my best interest.
 5 Treasured memories:
My collections always make my years more beautiful. This year, I especially cherish my Caravansary Collection released during Ramadan and the latest Andalusian collection inspired from my Spanish sojourn, which left me mermerised by its rich tradition and Arab influence.
Looking foward: Plans for 2016
I am looking forward to newer collections, unique designs and lots more of international collaborations. Queen of Spades will also be making the big move to the Dubai Design District. My atelier and studio will find space amidst the design hub.
Lamya Abedin is founder and creative director of haute couture brand Queen of Spades. Her creations have been worn by a long and varied list of reputed fashionistas from royals and VIPs to international celebs. - As told to Nida Sohail

THE YEAR OF LIVING gloriously: Today is the final installment of the series on people who define the ethos of the UAE:  creative, adventurous, enterprising - everything that tags this place as being a great melting pot of talent and spirit

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