by Yalda Zacca

Founder of fashion label Reemami, Reema Al Banna has taken the region by storm. She plays to her own rules and for that has made quite a name for herself. Her designs are unique, bold and playful and stand out against her peers. We sit down with the talented UAE based designer to talk inspiration, style icons and her cherished vintage Chanel jackets.
 

You are Palestinian and born in the UAE, how has your heritage influenced your work? Is it reflected in your style?
Growing up in the UAE had a very globalized effect on me. Living here made me try to make the clothes classy and conservative to a certain extent.
 
You launched your label in 2009 and since have made quite a name for yourself, what advice do you have for striving designers?
It wasn’t easy at all. It takes a lot of hard work, passion, and persistence. I tell them to keep going and keep aiming for the best, look for what’s missing in the market and flourish it.
 
You have been involved in and organized several charity events, how important is it for you to give back to your community?
It very important to give back especially when you can include it in your own work, it’s very rewarding when you give back every now and then.
 
Your ability to play with cuts and volume sets your identity apart, will you continue expand this silhouette? 
Yes, of course I like to experiment and come up with new silhouettes and new designs, it’s in the DNA of the brand.
 
Your designs are eclectic, bold and often quirky, would you say that reflects your personality?
I have to say, that I’m a very bold person. I like color and unique different pieces, I like creating things that were not tackled before.
 
You don’t seem to be influenced by seasonal trends, how do you get inspired for a new collection?
I get inspired from my daily life, from my day-to-day incidents. I watch what’s happening in the world, and things evolve from there.
 
Do you accredit your knack for prints on your graphic design background?
Yes graphic design for me was and will always be an endless passion, I always find myself including it in my work. Having a graphic design background didn’t just influence my prints, but also the way I design. Back when I used to work in an advertising agency we used to always try and come up with something that’s never been done before, so I like to follow that at times with my designs.
 
Your designs are young, playful and bold, who is the Reemami woman?
She is a woman who lives for fashion. She looks for unique pieces, is very bold and loves to stand out. She pays attention to detail and loves explicit tailoring.
 
Who would you say is your style icon?
Christine Centenera – Vogue Australia’s Fashion Director
 
Do you have any styling advice for women?
Never leave the house unless you feel amazing. Always try and make your outfit look chilled and laid back, even if your in a gown, less is more when it come to styling!

What is your typical workday outfit? 
Ripped jeans and a top.
 
Do you have any signature style elements you wear regularly? 
I dress very clean and depend on clothing for styling.
 
What is your most cherished item? Something you may pass down to your children?
A few of my vintage Chanel jackets and a lot of Reemami pieces!
 
What are some of your favorite coffee table books?
Revelations by Diane Arbus and Pictures by Tim Walker
 
Do you have a specific perfume you wear or do you change it up regularly?
Believe it or not I am not so big on perfumes!
 
What do you have in your handbag?
My wallet, make up bag, it depends on where I’m going, I could have change of shoes, clothes! You name it!