Fashion designer Deborah Henning creates effortlessly stylish pieces for the modern woman. Having moved to the Middle East almost five years ago and then re-launching her unique namesake brand in the region - it's time to talk career, style and plans for the future.
By Jemma Walker
Tell us about the start of your career in fashion?
After graduating, I accepted a position at Alexander McQueen in London, working on prints and menswear for the Milan shows. I then moved to Sass & Bide in Sydney after meeting the designers in the UK – it was an amazing experience where I truly learned the value of a brand story. After I created a small capsule collection of printed silk dresses and showcased my own collections at London Fashion Week, where I was named 'One to Watch' by Vogue.com. Three years later I came to Dubai and started working as a fashion lecturer at Esmod and London College of Fashion, before re-launching my brand here in the Middle East.
What do you miss about the industry in London?
In London street style is a plethora of different ideas, there’s such a mix of cultures and style it’s difficult to see a consistent trend - everything from casual chic and Parisian to androgynous fashion.
Clothing by Deborah Henning, photographed by Martin Beck, MUA Amanda Kay ^
Who’s been your inspiration for creating your brand?
I love brands like Helmut Lang, Rag and Bone and T by Alexander Wang. Alexander Wang inspires me because of what he’s achieved at such a young age, it’s amazing when designers have such a clear aesthetic so early in their careers that then turn into super-brands.
Describe the Deborah Henning woman?
She’s the girl who wants style and comfort, she’s realistic, straightforward and knows how to balance style and lifestyle. It’s important to be conscious of fashion trends but the Deborah Henning woman doesn’t always conform – she mixes designer and highstreet to help develop her personal style.
What’s next for the brand?
This summer I am travelling back to London and then doing an inspiration trip to Antwerp. I’ve always wanted to go there, it’s a great fashion hub with lots of character. Following that I’m visiting San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Miami, Cuba and New York. I love to travel - the last memorable place I visited was Reykjavik and I’ve never been anywhere so unusual and awe-inspiring in my life.
What are your personal staple fashion pieces?
A crisp white shirt, black jeans, converse and brogues – simple.
How would you describe your style?
I dress a little boyish, mostly monochrome and minimal. I like to wear beautiful make-up with decorated full eyes and lipstick, then pull my hair back and put on converse with a dress for a night out, or alternatively I’ll choose low-slung trousers with heels.
What products do you use to create your beauty look?
I love Tom Ford’s eyebrow shaper pencils and I wear hot red Mac lipstick when I’m in the mood.
Where are your favourite Dubai hang-outs?
For lunch I like Jones and Friends Avenue - for something at the weekend I go to Maison Mathis, The Cove or Jetty Lounge. I recently tried Catch, which was absolutely amazing.
Images courtesy of Deborah Henning ^
You can find Deborah Henning’s designs in IF Boutique on Um al Sheif and B21 Gallery in Al Quoz.
