“The conversation on diversity has started in the Middle East but it’s in its infancy” – Dima Ayad

If there are two words currently dominating the fashion industry, or in any industry as a matter of fact, it’s ‘diversity’ and ‘inclusivity’ — both undoubtedly some of the biggest issues that constantly make headlines.

In the Middle East particularly, the approach to tackling these issues have been slow-paced (although, we’re getting there), and regional talents have put their foot down to find a solution to the problem — Dima Ayad, included.

With an aim to find a solution for women for all sizes, the Lebanese designer launched her eponymous label in 2011 and created clothes that symbolised armour, giving strength to plus-sized women across the globe.

Then, the designer continued to build on niche marketing as one of the consultants on a luxury, all-inclusive, e-commerce platform, titled 11 Honoré.

At the 2019 Arab Luxury World conference, Ayad was present to discuss diversity in the luxury retail industry and shortly after, we had a chat with her to further hear what else she had to say on the topic. Watch our interview below…

Then, see what Messika Paris’ Valerie Messika had to say at the 2019 Arab Luxury World conference.