Having adorned elite cliental around the world for over three decades, Arushi Couture, one of the regions oldest and most renowned fashion houses, has welcomed new designer, Charles Lu who is set to launch an exclusive, Arushi Couture X Charles Lu, ‘INARA’, Spring Summer 17 collection.

Traditionally synonymous with intricate bridal, exquisite evening gowns and signature Henna gowns, Arushi Couture’ s French born Owner and Artistic Director Mireille A.Loughlin, comments; ‘Having successfully maintained our reputation as a pioneer amongst the haute couture houses in the region, specialising in creating unique and relevant designs for clientele from all cultures and traditions. With the appointment of Canadian born and London trained Charles Lu to the house, we aim to further enhance innovation and cater to the next generation of Arushi’s clientele’

Recognising in recent years there is now room for regional brands to compete within the international market, Istituto Marangoni trained Charles Lu has brought his international eye and dynamic garment construction to the femininity, grace and romanticism of Arushi. Producing an exclusive custom couture collection, including wedding gowns, evening dresses and jumpsuits to be retailed on a ‘made to order’ basis in specialised boutiques worldwide.

INARA, meaning to bring light into dark, is predominately inspired by Charles’ initial experience of Dubai and the cities modern architecture; the use of clean lines, metal and the play of light on glass. Architect, Zaha Hadid was of particular influence, with her use of biomorphic shapes and opposing use of black and white. Charles combined this with notes of Japanese linear minimalism, Art Deco architecture and historical garment construction, resulting in a perfect marriage of of many elements. From this all embroideries and forms fell into place.

Charles plays with these extremes throughout the collection, using elements of light and dark, soft and light. Reinterpreting the past Arushi mantra by stripping away the use of floral and lace and instead focusing heavily on beautiful lines and graphic structures with fine hand finishings. Celebrating lines and layers throughout, the palette consists of a sophisticated spectrum – ranging from; dove whites, midnight black, warm ivories, to deep navy, fern greens, with flashes of grey lavender, pale gold, silvers, pastel blues and blush pinks in between.

Highlights of the sixteen-piece collection include; a black cocktail dress in duchess satin and tulles, with metal and pearl embroideries and sheer structured peplum with chest overlay, including velvet and embroidered belt. A blush pink asymmetrical silk crepe gown, heavily embroidered with metals, pearls, and woven ribbon in art deco motif, including high neck and single kimono sleeve detailing. Sleek jumpsuits in pale brocade, with off white duchess details, pale gold tube and pearl linear embroidery rising from the hem. As well as a navy satin jumpsuit with flowing pleats, contrasting black collar and waist details. A lavender floor length gown with short front and pleat detail, finished with heavily embroidered belt. Monochrome white and black, duo chromatic, multi layered silk gown with geometric hemline and black crystal Swarovski detail, double neckline and Watteau back. Off-white, ivory, pale gold ball gown with pannier details and silver, gold tube embroidery, leading to laser cut organza fading from brocade to layers. As well as a breathtaking rich white wedding gown with bust pleat detail and flourish back, in heavy silk organza with pearls, shimmering paillettes and white raffia embroidery.

Of the INARA collection, Charles comments; ‘At it’s very core Arushi and I have the same values, however I wanted to reinterpret Arushi, celebrate the female form and push the boundaries to create an elegant collection that guides the Arushi woman into a fresh place. The end product is elegance with an edge, a refined take on modern.’

Charles adds, ‘the woman of this collection is fearless in her approach, she dresses strongly but effortlessly and most importantly, for her self, influential women are a core theme of mine.’

The private presentation of Arushi Couture X Charles Lu took place at VIP Lounge, Fashion Avenue, Dubai Mall. With media attending a preview between 1-4pm October 17^th 2016, followed by a private event for Arushi customers on the 17^th and 18^th of October between 7-10pm including guest of honour Mahira Abdel Aziz.