Content is what defines Layla Al-Siyabi’s popular online identity – beinglayla_a. A creative director at content creation and advertising company, Layla rocks her career with her motherhood, finding the right balance between her professional and her social media life with that of her family. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Marketing, along with Fashion Designing and Styling, she has found the perfect avenue in social media to explore her style quotient.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is art for my soul that expresses what I am feeling for the day. It’s a way to communicate without having to say much at all. I believe style expresses our mood and creates impressions we want to leave in a setting.
Do you follow any style or fashion dictates to stay in tune with international trends?
Yes, I do – some from the region, such as Lady fozaza and Ascia, and some from abroad, such as the supermodel Halima.
Is there any one style that defines your fashion ideals?
I would say my personal style is edgy, urban and creative, says Layla.
Any event in your personal fashion journey, that you would call a learning experience?
I used to have a fashion design and styling studio between the years from 2011 to 2013, where I got to create my own designs under my fashion label, by working closely with my tailor. I also used to take in clients to do makeovers – it largely comprised of women who were searching to get a completely new look from head to toe and revamp their wardrobes. It is so nice to see the confidence boost in a woman’s persona when she would see herself afterwards; also very heartwarming to see my designs worn by women for the special occasions that brought them a true joy to know that the piece was meant for them and them only. This gave me confidence in the way I saw and translated fashion into the world and taught me to be more confident in the way I put myself out there. It made me realise what I wanted to do with fashion and styling.
What inspires your style and fashion?
I usually take inspiration from my surroundings, music, and most importantly my gut feeling! I would say I am more of a trendsetter than a trend follower. If I like something I will wear it, whether or not it is in style that season, and I always notice people catching up to it.
What would you recommend as must-have wardrobe essentials/staples?
A white crisp collar shirt that fits right, round neck t-shirts, denim jacket and ripped jeans. The colour nude in your wardrobe is essential – nude shoes and top; black dress and an Abaya with shayla (if you live in the GCC, doesn’t matter if you are a local or foreigner; trust me, it would come in handy).
Could you share your top fashion secret?
I feel like I should not share my secret, because I had to find out what it is myself after much experimenting and exploration. All aspiring fashionistas can find their answers through trial and error, just like I had to, to get somewhere in fashion. However, I would advise them to stick to their own personal style before echoing too many trends. Besides, always be confident in what you put out there.
Any fashion tips and guidelines for readers?
To me, confidence is key. You could be wearing anything at all, but if you feel good in it, it would look effortless. Confidence in yourself and an acceptance of your features and body helps all aspects of life – even when you want to shape a wardrobe.
What is your favourite autumn/winter fashion?
My favourite, so far, are sequins and crystals that are heavy on glam vibes. I also adore the tribal vibes this winter with oversized coats in different prints. Slogan dressing and logo appropriation, as part of the ongoing trend with cool words and phrases on clothing, will continue on winter wear; also, text print and non-conforming gender-neutral outerwear.
What trend are you most looking forward to include in your wardrobe?
I look forward to incorporating the text print and also a lot of outerwear that is non-confirming and gender-neutral. I can’t wait to do autumn winter looks from casual to formals, with 80’s vibes, says excited Layla.
What is your biggest accomplishment in your online fashion life?
I would say just being online with such a coveted page is an accomplishment in itself. I have hosted Mercedes Benz fashion week in Qatar and I was nominated as one of the top fashion bloggers in Qatar for Grazia style awards. Also, not to forget, to have delivered my TEDx speech on ‘beyond beauty’ to convey my message through fashion and beauty that you just have to be yourself with confidence – everything else will follow.