My Style: Dana Al-Khalifa
Photo: Courtesy of Dana Al-Khalifa
Celebrities and style...
Have been over-coveted and in many ways, overrated. We really shouldn't care that much about who wore what. Style appreciation is one thing, but it's always important to define your own.
Please describe your style in three words.
Feminine, overdressed, and fun.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Being uncertain of what they’ve put on — confidence is key.
Do you believe in role models?
Of course! Looking up to someone is a way to push yourself forward to bigger and better things.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Lace, satin, tulle, organza, and voile de chine.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Anything that results in scruff; trashy and unclean is a no-go for me.
Which city has the best-dressed women?
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Conservative with the cuts and hemlines, bold with the colours.
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
My rule is simple: If I love it, I wear it!
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I’m like a typical husband in a shop. I don’t like shopping unless it’s at boutiques in Forte dei Marmi, Italy with my mother and sisters discussing and buying next season’s essentials! This is an annual family ritual.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Objet d’art and vintage. Both are continuous sources of inspiration in finding something unique to wear.
A woman should always look like...
She’s going somewhere!
Who taught you what you know about style?
In my view, style cannot be taught, but I’m definitely inspired by all the beautiful women I’ve come across, especially my mother and the way she looks and carries herself.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
Depends if my hair is blow-dried or not and I take it from there. Blow-dried means polished, complete with heels and high-waisted trousers. Wavy hair is coquettish, and as it’s always sunny here, I can get away with wearing a dress and cardigan!
Your biggest regret is...
Regrets are for people who dwell on the past. I’m not sentimental, I move on.
The three essential things a woman should know about style are...
Style is personal: its main components are confidence, grace and charm.
We will never see you wearing...
A mini-skirt.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
My parents and grandparents.
What is the first thing you notice on a woman?
Her legs.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Grace Kelly in “Rear Window”.
One article of clothing that a woman needs to pay close attention to is...
A beautiful pair of comfortable shoes — they do exist!
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Absolutely not! It’s such a misconception that if you look nice then you’re obviously not comfortable.
The best word of advice you have ever heard?
My father told me to be a hunter: observe from afar and then approach.
