Lebanese designers Tatiana Fayad and Joanne Hayek, the creative minds behind the lifestyle brand Vanina, are bringing their unique blend of fashion and sustainability to Dubai. The duo has chosen Dubai as the location for a two-day pop-up event at the Villa Aumèdan. This initiative reflects their desire to connect with the vibrant Dubai community and share their brand’s mission and aspirations.Vanina’s journey began with a shared passion between Fayad and Hayek, rooted in the belief that fashion can coexist harmoniously with sustainability.
Their founding philosophy revolves around “creating beauty out of everyday objects.” Initially starting as a jewelry line in 2007, where old devalued Lebanese coins were transformed into exquisite pieces, Vanina has evolved into an internationally distributed label, involving over 70 individuals in its production process, including skilled local artisans and women seeking financial stability.A key aspect of Vanina’s identity lies in its commitment to promoting local community development and preserving and reviving craftsmanship in the region. Central to this mission is the deep connection the brand shares with its artisans. The designers refer to their network of artisans as the “Vanina family,” emphasizing the importance of this friendship. This collaborative spirit was integral to Vanina’s inception.While working alongside generational artisans skilled in their crafts and empowering them to operate as independent micro-enterprises, Fayad and Hayek have also established a training program for women in need of financial stability. This program, developed in collaboration with local NGOs, offers women without prior knowledge or skills in handicrafts and manufacturing the opportunity to learn and grow. Through Vanina, these women are trained to progress from apprentices to master artisans capable of producing intricate pieces and providing training to future recruits.The elegant pieces crafted by these artisans often draw inspiration from the city of Beirut and Lebanon as a whole. According to Fayad and Hayek, Beirut and Lebanon serve as their primary sources of inspiration. The city’s landscape, heritage, people, terroir, crafts, and culture continually fuel their creativity and energy. Additionally, the challenges and hardships faced by Beirut and Lebanon reinforce their commitment to contributing to sustainable development in the region.Vanina’s collections reflect the celebration of creativity and vitality inspired by Beirut and Lebanon. Visitors to the Dubai pop-up can expect to encounter playful staples and statement silhouettes, all brought to life through the brand’s signature material works and techniques.
The founders have thoughtfully curated a selection of products for the event, including eveningwear, daily wear, bags, and jewelry, all produced in limited editions.In conclusion, Vanina’s Dubai pop-up represents more than just a fashion event. It embodies the brand’s commitment to sustainability, community development, and the preservation of craftsmanship. Tatiana Fayad and Joanne Hayek’s dedication to creating beauty from everyday objects while empowering artisans and women in need exemplifies their vision for a more sustainable and inclusive fashion industry. As they share their work and aspirations with the Dubai community, Vanina continues to serve as a beacon of conscious and creative fashion.
