Middle East influencers Karen Wazen, Nour Arida and Leena Al Ghouti prove that three is the magic number. The three street style stars — hailing from Beirut and Dubai — brought some of their personal style to New York City during New York Fashion Week. We spoke with the trio about its take on everything from their Happy Times and trends to our Farida Fleming handbag, exclusive to the Middle East.
When I think of happy times, I think of…
Vacation by the sea, listening to music and swimming until sunset.
A song, book or movie that always makes me happy…
Love Actually.
My very first fashion obsession…
Victoria Beckham.
My top three style tips for fall…
Belting a blazer, animal prints and exaggerated shoulders.
And when it comes to wearing prints…
Animal prints.
What’s always in my bag…
Charger, sunglasses, wallet, gum and lipstick.
Style in NYC vs. style in my home country…
NYC is more laid back and effortless, I would say. I love the style in my home country, but it’s definitely more studied and sometimes a bit over the top.
What I love about the Farida…
It’s classic, yet modern and can be worn during the day and in the evening. It also holds meaning, which I love.
And the charm that has the most meaning for me…
My favorite charm is the four leaf clover. I love it because each leaf reminds me of my three kids and husband.
When I think of happy times, I think of…
Chilling at home with my loved ones.
A song, book or movie that always makes me happy…
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
My very first fashion obsession…
Oversized jumpers.
My top three style tips for fall…
Layering, oversized and warm colors
And when it comes to wearing prints…
It is always great mixing two different prints together.
What’s always in my bag…
Lipliner, car keys and a visa card…
Style in NYC vs. style in my home country…
You can always find two styles in both places. The super casual, chilled style and the formal, chic style. I think it depends on one’s style and personality.
What I love about the Farida…
The different charms because everyone can relate to one of them.
And the charm that has the most meaning for me…
The Palm—my name is Leena which means “the little palm tree.”
When I think of happy times, I think of…
The smallest pleasures with my family.
A song, book or movie that always makes me happy…
My Best friend’s Wedding and Grease.
My very first fashion obsession…
Everything related to Kate Moss.
My top three style tips for fall…
Don’t be afraid to go big with your coats and jackets, accessorize with a big hat and invest in a pair of cowboy boots.
And when it comes to wearing prints…
Yes, yes, yes! Obsessed with animal prints.
What’s always in my bag…
My lipstick.
Style in NYC vs. style in my home country…
I’ve never changed my style for any country!
What I love about the Farida…
It’s a bag that is specifically designed for the Middle East, which is really cool. I love the idea of the charms, where each of them in a way represents a part of our culture. Also, it’s quite versatile and practical!
And the charm that has the most meaning for me…
My daughter’s name is Ayla, which means “the halo of the moon.” There’s really nothing that means more to me in life than her and everything related to her.