Abu Dhabi’s recent fashion week has ended, but it’s worth musing over what it takes to break into fashion’s big four: Paris, Milan, London, New York. Can Abu Dhabi make the leap from star consumer to hotbed of creative geniuses such as Coco Chanel?

Who could have predicted that an orphaned peasant girl would grow up to employ thousands of people, counting among her employees no-less than a grand duchess? So reads the rags-to- riches legend of Mademoiselle Gabrielle Chanel.

The designs of Chanel are still with us more than 40 years after her death, and her austere minimalism is today frequently juxtaposed against the luxurious backdrop of the UAE’s spectacular mallscape. Chanel’s 2.55 handbag, with its once innovative chain strap, is ubiquitous. In terms of brand recognition, the interlinking Cs of the Chanel logo are instantly recognisable.

But what makes the allure of the leading fashion houses so strong? Is there really a touch ... Read more »