All that glitters is crystal

An exclusive range of fashionable abaya and shayla designs are available in Dubai in partnership with one of the world's most famous manufacturers of crystals.

Crystal Nights, an initiative by Swarovski, has combined the clothing and the crystals for a new look that was exhibited at the recent bride show.

Mohammad Ali, who helped launch the range around 2 months ago, said, "The Gulf woman has always been immaculately dressed and elegant.

"While she may wear Western clothes and designs on the inside, her abaya and shayla form her identity for the rest of the world.

"It represents who she is and we wanted to show the local market how Swarovski crystals could be adapted to that style."

Ali added that the range was also Swarovski's way of giving back to the community, "We are preserving the heritage and culture of the [attire] and yet making it quite fashionable."

Fashionable

According to Ali, Crystal Nights as a fashion statement is sure to catch on as it embodies the gradual change in the abaya and shayla fashion trend.

"Today, the abaya is no more just about black. It has become quite fashionable and glamorous and a bit of bling-bling are an accepted part of it now."

Ali added, "We will be honest with you. Crystals are not a necessity of life; you don't need them to survive but they are an affordable luxury and they make you feel good.

"World famous designers such as Armani and Cavalli use Swarovski crystal and with Swarovski you are guaranteed quality."

Mixed reaction

Visitors at the bride show, many who saw the range for the first time, received it with mixed reactions.

"It's quite beautiful and it would be nice to get it at least once, for maybe a really special occasion. But yes, it sort of defeats the purpose of the abaya, doesn't it? It actually attracts more attention," said Sabrina Syed.

Added Noora Al Qasimi, "I would not spend up to Dh60,000 on an abaya. I can spend something like that on a Chanel dress maybe, but an abaya is worn on the outside only and I change it very often so it doesn't make sense to spend so much on just one."

Future plans

Swarovski are hoping to auction one of the crystal-studded designs for charity in the near future - expecting bids of Dh60,000.

Selected designers will also be offering to make the Swarovski abayas and shaylas commercially in the near future.