February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
It takes grit, determination and hard work to follow your true passion in life. Yasmin Al Mulla, the Creative Director of YNM Dubai, reveals what exactly it takes to do just that.
Can you talk us through your career?
I studied both fashion and politics. Although these subjects may not seem to go hand-in-hand at the first sight, but I strongly believe they complement each other in a way.
I always make sure my designs reflect my culture in a modern way. I aspire to elevate our traditional pieces, yet retain a timelessness – to design garments to be worn 20 years from now.
What brought about your love for fashion?
Clothes have always been a way of expressing myself and this remains so today.
What inspired you to set up your own fashion label?
I am very driven to positively represent the UAE within the global fashion market. From a creative perspective — I to create strong products, to modernize our classic kaftans and to create homegrown ready-to-wear pieces that speak to today’s generation and to focus on high-standard craftsmanship and lasting quality.
From a business aspect — my goal was to follow an avant-garde method in making our debut six years ago which was through an e-commerce platform, focusing on strong products and high-quality tech simultaneously. This approach worked phenomenally, and our debut collection sold out in less than a week, and that was the start of our journey.
What do you love about what you do?
Expressing myself through designing gives me nothing but incredible joy.
What are your hopes for women in the future in this region?
This region brings nothing but magnificent opportunities on daily basis. So, I would love for every woman to follow her passion, believe in herself and take every opportunity to fulfill her dream.
As a woman paving the way in this region, you’ll be a role model to many. What do you love about being a role model?
Thank you! Being able to encourage and support women is my favourite part about the whole concept. We rise by lifting others!
What advice would you give to young women in this region?
You are living in a world where women are being supported in all aspects. Take every opportunity, study the market and incorporate your passion through your education and career. Always remember that there is a room for everyone.
What have been some hurdles you have experienced in your career?
I am a very positive person and never look at any hurdle negatively. Every obstacle is a free lesson, I always make sure to experience and live each stage, to observe, take my time and believe in myself in each situation.
What have been some major milestones in your career?
Every achievement is beautiful in itself. It’s the fruit of long nights, dedication and hardwork. I appreciate each accomplishment differently, and all of them are nothing but genuinely dear to my heart.
I treasure my collaborations, all of them — from Tiffany & Co., Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton and Christian Louboutin.
This is ‘The Love Issue’ – what does love mean to you and how do you plan to instil love into your life throughout 2021?
Love is life. Staying connected to my family, close friends, and what makes me happy is the ultimate form of love from my perspective.
