With her signature long locks, lean silhouette and sports sneakers, The Fashion Pirate has made a name for herself as one of the fashion icons in the region. Whereas bloggers and style influencers try hard to achieve and perfect their look, Zeynab El-Helw AKA “The Fashion Pirate” stands out with her effortless style. Born and raised in London, we speak to the half-Egyptian half-Turkish influencer about her passions, collaborations, and more…
Tell us a little bit about your background.
I have always been passionate about fashion art music and literature. Studied fashion design at Central Saint Martins University of the Arts London and then went on to do a masters in marketing and then a second masters in business. When I was younger I used to cut up my twins clothes and safety pin them together.
What led you to start blogging about fashion?
It accidentally happened. In the beginning I just loved writing and creating content. I eventually ended up having so much so it was a form of a diary to record and keep track of things I like. I always used to write and take photos as a child and collect memories. In a sense it’s this day and age diary.
How did the name The Fashion Pirate come about?
Always been a fan of pirates and wanted to cater to something unusual, I dressed up as a pirate for Halloween a few years back and since then it stuck!
How would you describe your personal style?
Very laid back, casually simplified.
How does it feel to constantly have your fashion sense open to critique on social media?
Some days it can get tough but we are out there and build thick skin – I have learnt to take any form of criticism as a compliment in essence.
What’s your favorite thing about being a media influencer?
Being able to have a platform to express a voice, a feeling a mood. Being able to share your taste, travel and thoughts with people. For me I see it as a storyboard.
What’s the least favorite aspect of being an influencer?
Most probably not taking a timeout. You’re always hungry to see and do more and always on the look out for content.
What are your criteria in choosing whom to collaborate with?
To collaborate with people or brands I believe in or genuinely love. I’m very open to learning about new brands too.
How did your partnership with Onyx Designer come about?
We actually spoke on Instagram! Onyx gifted me a few items when I first started and then we started to team up together and create designs together and sell it on my platform as well as opening channels in point of sales such as Beymen and participate in events such as Fashion Forward. And now we still continue and have become good friends.
Tell us about your collaboration with Platform 3 fitness in Dubai…
As it’s a core activity and I always want to share especially if it motivates others around me.
Quick Questions:
First Fashion Icon: Aaliyah
Comfort Food: Burgers!!
Favortie city: NYC
Hidden Talent: Classically trained in piano and flute
