Dubai Shopping Festival celebrated the last day of their 20th anniversary in style with non other than House of Harlow 1960’s creative director, Nicole Richie. With her celebrity pop up shop donning The Beach at JBR, Nicole made many appearances for her fans and we had the lucky opportunity to meet the fashion designer for a chat at the VIP Fashion Lounge in Dubai Mall. So here is what we found out…
What are your influences for House Of Harlow 1960?
The name gives away a big clue, I’m hugely inspired by the ’60s and the ’70s. I just love the music of that time and the overall freedom of that era. I love that the idea of clashing didn’t exist then. You could mix prints on prints, you could mix fabrics and colors and it was more about the way you felt than about the labels and trends. I love that it was all very relaxed but fashionable at the same time. House of Harlow 1960’s jewelry and clothing line is all about layering.
Where did it all begin and what gave you the idea?
As a young adult, I felt like I didn’t belong. I didn’t want to wear children’s clothing anymore, but I also didn’t want to wear my mothers brown turtle neck! I wanted something in the middle that suited who I am… Once I really started understanding my own style, I realized how much I loved fashion and costume jewelry. The Gucci, Dior and Yves Saint Laurent of the 70s are the pieces I relate to and love wearing and that is when House of Harlow was born.
What age did you develop your personal style?
I would say it slowly evolved and grew. I became known for my boho chic style and then that look became more and more fashionable.
How has your daughter Harlow influenced you?
Well, as you can see her name is the brand name, so a lot! But I don’t tell her that… she obviously knows her name is on it and even says it’s hers! My children influence my style which is very easy going, fun and relaxed because I want to be able to play with them and be comfortable.
Your classic jewelry collection comes in new colours each season, How do you decide what colors?
I design and select the colors to go with the clothing every season and to finish off the looks in a sense. I love to play with different textures, leathers and stones on the jewelry!
What do you think of women’s fashion in Dubai?
I love it! As soon as I landed I noticed how fashionable women here are. I have been so inspired here. The dress I am wearing today is a Vintage Christian Dior that I bought about a month ago in LA and it comes with a scarf that should go around my neck but instead I wanted to tie it around my hair because I think it looks fabulous! Woman here are fabulous!
To view and shop Nicole Richie’s House of Harlow 1960 jewelry collection click this way>