Stunning Collection of Hats and Hairpieces on Display at the Mall
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
As a forerunner to the world's richest horserace, the Dubai World Cup, BurJuman is hosting a millinery exhibition, in conjunction with the Australian Trade Commission, it was announced today.
A stunning collection of exquisite couture hats, headpieces and bridal headwear will be on display at the mall, from 15-24 March 2006, giving race-goers the opportunity to find the perfect accessory to complement their race day outfit.
Joining Dubai-based designers Karen Hamilton and Julie Anne Lucas, will be some of Australia's most-renowned milliners, including headwear designer to the stars Louise McDonald, Marilena Romeo, Catherine Grounds and Sabine Pedder.
The designers will be available at the mall for a 10-day period, offering fashion headwear advice, displaying some of their beautiful pieces for sale and also creating custom-made headpieces, fascinators and other headwear accessories for race-goers using a variety of materials.
"These milliners are known for their elegance, trend setting designs and fine quality work. Whether it's the subtle and subdued look one is going for or the full flamboyance of the racing season, there is something to suit every taste, making this a must-attend exhibition for anyone looking to step out in style on race day," said Sabina Khandwani, head of research and marketing, BurJuman.
A milliner for 16 years, Louise McDonald began her career in England, making hats for film and television productions. Working in one of London's best costume houses she has produced headwear for world-famous actors including Minnie Driver, Tom Cruise, Jerry Hall, William Hurt, Helena Bonham Carter and Vanessa Redgrave to name a few.
Karen Hamilton specializes in headwear for ladies for both the Melbourne Racing Carnival and the Dubai World Cup. From her workshop in Jumeirah, she has also recently teamed up with a locally-based UK fashion designer and produces bridal headpieces for numerous society weddings in Dubai.
"Getting advised by the calibre of these designers on how to enhance one's World Cup outfit is priceless and in keeping with BurJuman's tradition of providing our discerning customers with an unparalleled shopping experience that they can't get anywhere else in Dubai," added Khandwani.
British designer Louise Harrison, who's stockists include Harrods, Liberty, Fenwick of Bond Street and various other exclusive retailers throughout the United Kingdom, will also be displaying her 'Couture Collection' of luxury hand-made scarves at the mall during this time.
Using silk, chiffon and velour in a wide range of colours, textures and fabrics, Harrison employs a unique blend of techniques such as embroidery, beading and appliqu to create unique one-of-a-kind pieces for stylish women of all ages to wear on special occasions such as the Dubai World Cup.
Fondly described as the "Mad Hatter" of Australia, Marilena Romeo has experienced an unprecedented level of success since her inauguration into the hat world, bagging a top prize at the Milliner Design Awards in 1992 after only one year of production. Leaving a successful career in Public Relations behind, Romeo has since pursued her true vocation and now utilises the traditional skills of hat design to create a glamorous and theatrically-inspired range. Her specialties include racewear, evening and bridal ware.
Similarly, Catherine Grounds also underwent a sudden career change when she decided to embark on a millinery profession. At college, Grounds was awarded the "Tertiary Students Millinery Award" at the 30th Golden Gown Awards and has since fulfilled her passion to, in her words, "create beautiful hats for beautiful women."
BurJuman is also sponsoring Fillies and Fashion, one of the main fashion events of the Dubai World Cup, using this occasion as a platform to showcase the latest collections from world-renowned designers Christian Lacroix, Kenzo and Ungaro to a captivated and fashionable audience.
On March 25, the 2006 BurJuman Style Stakes will give race-goers a chance to compete and win fabulous prizes, in a number of categories including Best Dressed Lady, Runner Up and Best Dressed Couple and the Milliner's Award for the Best Hat.
The exhibition is located at BurJuman and is open daily between the 15th and 24th March 2006
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About BurJuman
The haven of luxury shopping, the residence of high-fashion BurJuman today has the world's largest concentration of high fashion luxury shopping brands. Here's where the leading fashion icons mingle comfortably with one another. Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel, Hermes, Valentino, Prada, Moschino, Dolce and Gabbana, Versace, Emanuel Ungaro, Loewe, Etro, Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Christian Lacroix, Salvatore Ferragamo, Just Cavalli, and many more. Temptations abound, but the feeling of getting the finest in an ambience of absolute comfort and luxury is wonderful. With over 300 leading fashion stores including Saks 5th Avenue, you'll always be spoilt for choice.
Located in the heart of Dubai, the BurJuman Centre is a distinctive landmark which comprises over 2.8 million square feet of space. The centre's atrium courtyards, beautiful seating and abundant foliage create a relaxed yet vibrant shopping environment.
You can also choose from a wide selection of restaurants, a food court and cafs.
© Press Release 2006
