Crystal glitter

THE CRYSTALLISED Arabian Creation Awards marked a glamorous end to the Sheila and Abaya Fashion.

Held in conjunction with Swarovski, the glittering event that featured the union of tradition and style was held at BurJuman Centre.

The event brought together eight of the most gifted amateurs and crowned two winners - ‘Best Designer’ and ‘Innovations Award’.

The ‘Innovations Award’ honoured the participant who used the Swarovski elements most creatively and was won by Arshiya Khan, a Pakistani designer based in Abu Dhabi.

Having stayed in UAE for the past 15 years, she says she is greatly influenced by the Arab culture, especially the Abaya and Sheila that locals wear with great pride and elegance.

Thrilled at winning this award, Arshiya says “My design was based on a Victorian Era theme and I chose my fabric, crystals, and style on the basis of my theme. I wanted to take something classic and make a modern version of it. I’m glad it worked!”

The ‘Best Designer’ award was won by Rachna Jaisinghani, a 25-year-old freelance designer.

Although she has showcased her work in various exhibitions and shows before, this was the first time she had taken part in a design competition. Rachna, who has been into the fashion industry for just over three years now, is exhilarated that she emerged as a winner.

Rachna’s design was based on a bride’s wedding day.

“The most important day in a woman’s life is her wedding day,” says Rachna. “I took my inspiration from an opulent and scintillating bride and designed this particular outfit. Swarovski stones have always been my favourite as they add the perfect dazzle and glitter to any outfit. So this show was the perfect opportunity for me.”

Participants were judged on the basis of originality of style and design, cuts, pattern, finishing, creative use of Swarovski elements and ramp appeal.