Reinventing the kimono in Dubai

 "Growing up in Dubai has had quite a large influenceon my style. Out of respect for the culture, dressing up has always been more conservative.
I love kimonos because they're such a fashionable addition to any outfit. The most popular high street brands rework this typically Japanese costume every year, adapting it to the season. Come summer, you'll see themdecked out in fringe and lace, but in the winter they'll be revampedwith thicker fabrics in darker colours.
Due to the floaty (and forgiving) nature of a kimono, a lot of people avoid them because they feel like they'll get lost in all the fabric. I
recommend adding a belt over the top to cinch your waist in. You
can also throw it on over your sundress, use it as a pool cover-up for
the summer, or wear it with jeans and boots. It's minimal effort with
maximum impact!"
Milli Midwood, British, fashion editor, www.theluxurycloset.com
 
"My husband and I are both from arts backgrounds and fell in love with kimonos during our first visit to Japan. They bear a strong resemblance to abayas, so we started CHI-KA, combining the two to create the
kimono-abaya! It preserves the kimono's traditional charm, while also embodying Khaleeji modesty, elegance and femininity. They're very popular too! We have clients all over the region and some of them belong to eminent families.
The kimono's universal beauty recognises no borders. It is timeless, existing beyond fashion trends. We are increasingly seeing it being modernised and applied cross-culturally. Hopefully, we will soon open our flagship store and gallery in Dubai's Alserkal Avenue, bringing more Japanese-inspired art and craft, and creating the best environment for future cultural exchanges.
Consider it our humble contribution to keeping the extraordinary craft of
kimono-making alive."
Nina Valjarevic, Serbian-Canadian, co-founder, CHI-KA

• Dubai