April 2019 www.womanthismonth.com 28 showcase WOMEN IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY Two recognised authorities in fashion share their thoughts on how women can express themselves through the way they dress and the changing face of the region’s fashion scene. Hosts Amna Al-Amer is a mother of two beautiful daughters and a full-time employee at the Court of the Crown Prince office. Currently, she is working at the Royal Fund for Fallen Servicemen as the head of finance and services. She has a Bachelor’s in Business Information Systems from the University of Bahrain and a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA). Amna completed her Executive Master’s Programme at Cambridge in the UK. She continuously aspires to develop herself, gain knowledge, as well as teach as a volunteer at Injaz Bahrain. She is also an active athlete, currently participating in Triathlons, and has completed two 70.3 Ironman competitions. What is fashion according to you? Fashion is a statement of who you are, it’s how you dress to present yourself to the world. How important is it to be fashionforward in the corporate world? Dressing in a fashion-forward manner could make those you work with have a positive opinion about you. Although we don’t like to judge people, it could be an effective weapon to get your point across to others. If you dress fashionably you will give an impression that you are on top of your game, and that you know what it means to be updated! How can women dress differently in the boardroom from daily life? It all depends on the occasion of the meeting, but I feel if you wear a business suit it would look the most formal, if you wear a blazer it is less formal, and throwing on a jacket could be considered as the least formal. How has the fashion scene in the Middle East evolved and how can fashion traditions be kept alive in the way women dress today? We have come a long way, specially in the modest fashion aspect. This concept is recognised beyond the Middle East and across Europe and the United States. Nowadays, online stores all around the world have a modest section of clothing for women to choose from. Today, there are various applications available that engage consumers and enable them to send feedback about what they really want. These apps are a huge indicator for the industry to measure the growing demand for modest fashion. Contrary to popular belief, modest fashion is not just for Muslims; many ladies from other religious outlooks are looking for modest fashion. I feel that the trend is spreading, and it reflects how a woman respects and presents herself. How can a modest dresser stand out for her fashion sense? Well, every woman has her own style and a way to dress that’s comfortable to her. I feel that adding layers, accessories or elements to the outfits can really draw attention to one’s style. What can be done for Bahrain to have its own indigenous fashion industry? Bahrain’s fashion industry is taking forward steps in creating its own local brands and styles. My very own friend established her line last year and it’s a huge success. I am very proud of our home-grown brands that are getting economic support and guidance from Tamkeen to level up their fashion game. AMNA AL AMEER Head of Statistics and Reports at the Court of the Crown Prince
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