Sarah Guirguis Ever since launching her luxury fashion brand in 2014, Yasmin Mansour has been offering something very novel to the Middle Eastern fashion scene. Constantly designing outside of the conventional box, Mansour stands by her passion to create without rules. We talked to her to find out more about the woman behind the sensational fashion house and what inspires her.
Tell us about your backstory. When did you recognize your dream to become a designer?
It has always been my dream to go to a fashion school. After some research, I decided to enroll in the Italian Fashion Institute when I was 18. Movies, fashion history and couture designers inspired me to choose this field, along with the freedom of creativity you get in fashion design. I started designing while in school and I loved the fact that it allowed me to turn my dreams into reality.
Who are you most inspired by in the fashion world?
Haute couture designer Schiaparelli.
What were the main obstacles you faced while building your brand and how did you overcome them?
Most of the obstacles revolved around the manufacturing of clothes. It was hard to find a factory as well as sources for quality fabrics and materials. I started to look for resources abroad – in the Middle East and internationally. Now, I do my manufacturing in my workshop in Doha but I get my materials from Italy and France.
We love the powerful, elegant vibes from your latest AW collection. How would you describe it?
The AW19 collection “The Dream” is a combination of extravagance and sophistication. The color palette of this collection is black and pink, with hand embroidered sequence. The fabric I used for this collection was luxury French tulle and one-of-a-kind Mikado silk, which definitely worked to enhance the elegance and femininity of my designs. The whole collection portrays a dreamy vibe including dramatic dresses and tailored jacket suits.
Do you have a favorite piece?
Yes, my favorite piece was the first piece that I made for this collection – the volumized black layered dress. It’s also in black which is my favorite color.
You’ve collaborated with Nespresso and Leo before. Any more collaborations in the future?
Maybe. Why not? You never know what the future holds.
How did it feel to be announced as a finalist by Fashion Trust Arabia and for Touriya Haoud to wear one of your SS19 designs?
It was a really special and overwhelming experience and it was a huge honor to be one of the finalists for the most prestigious awards in the Middle East region, recognized by the most influential people in the industry.
It was a great opportunity to dress Touriya Haoud. I’ve been designing pieces for her for a long time but we never actually met in person before FTA. I was really excited to find out that she is coming to FTA. Aside from being an amazing soul, she is one of the top supporters of the brand.
We’re big fans of the sketches you post online. How do you pick your illustrators?
I love to research talented artists who can sketch and I found out about some amazing illustrators from Milan and London. My favorite fashion illustrator is London-based artist Josh Bristow. I love his work because he has a very unique sketching style.
What do you see trending in the Middle Eastern fashion scene these days?
Right now, I see a lot of light pastel colors, more pink and yellow, puffy sleeves and crystals.
What advice would you give to women who want to start their own business?
Just do it! Believe in your dreams, keep working and trust what you are doing.
