Founded in 2013 by Bashayer Al Mahmood, My Fancy Closet has built a distinctive identity rooted in romance, nostalgia and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. What began as a single handcrafted design has evolved into a label defined by its vintage-inspired aesthetic, where cinematic references and delicate detailing come together to create pieces that feel both timeless and personal.
Balancing ready-to-wear collections with bespoke creations, the brand is guided by a slower, more intentional approach to fashion, one that places meaning, individuality and emotional connection at its core. Each design is conceived as a story, shaped by memory, heritage and the quiet beauty of everyday moments.
Here, Bashayer Al Mahmood reflects on the journey of My Fancy Closet, the inspirations behind its signature aesthetic and the evolving landscape of fashion in the region.
You launched My Fancy Closet in 2013. Looking back, how has the brand evolved from that first moment to the label it is today?
My Fancy Closet began in 2013 with a single handcrafted design created from a passion for elegance and detail. Over the years, the brand has grown into a distinctive label known for its refined aesthetic. While the collections and reach have expanded, the essence of the brand remains the same, creating timeless pieces that celebrate femininity, guided by our slogan “Made for pretty people.”
The brand is known for its romantic aesthetic, vintage influences and cinematic references. Where does your fascination with this visual language come from?
My fascination with this visual language comes from a deep appreciation for timeless beauty, vintage elegance, and storytelling. I have always been inspired by old films, classic fashion, and delicate details that carry a sense of romance and nostalgia. I also draw inspiration from nature gardens, sunlight, and soft natural moments, which bring warmth and softness to my designs. These influences naturally shape the identity of My Fancy Closet, where each piece reflects a dreamy, cinematic aesthetic.
Tell us about your latest collection. What inspired it and what story were you hoping to tell through the designs?
The After Sunset Collection is inspired by the quietness and calm of Ramadan days, leading into the beautiful moments after sunset when families and loved ones gather. I wanted the designs to reflect this transition, from peaceful daytime serenity to elegant evening gatherings. I reimagined the traditional Mukhawer in a modest and refined way, creating pieces that honour our heritage while bringing a sense of elegance and femininity to these special Ramadan moments.
From ready-made pieces to custom creations, My Fancy Closet offers a range of experiences. How important is it for you that each garment feels unique to the woman wearing it?
It is more important than simply making a sale that each piece feels truly special to the woman wearing it. I genuinely enjoy creating garments designed specifically for one customer. The process is very personal; I put great care into every step, from sketching the design to selecting the right fabric and beads, and imagining how the final piece will look. Perhaps this comes from my own perspective, as I have always preferred owning a special piece rather than seeing many similar ones in the market. This philosophy is what drives me to create designs that feel unique, thoughtful, and truly personal.
As a founder, what continues to motivate and inspire you creatively after more than a decade in the industry?
What continues to motivate me the most is the trust and loyalty of my customers. Even during seasons when a collection may take longer to launch, I receive messages from them saying they are waiting for the new pieces. That support means a lot to me and inspires me to keep creating. I am also driven by the joy of the creative process, from developing the idea and storytelling behind a collection to imagining the photoshoot and how the designs will be presented. Each collection feels like a new story waiting to be told.
The UAE’s fashion industry has grown significantly in recent years. How do you view the evolution of the local fashion scene and its influence on regional design?
The industry in the UAE has grown remarkably over the years, becoming a vibrant platform for creativity and innovation. Local designers today are confidently expressing their identity while blending tradition with modern influences. This evolution has also strengthened the region’s design voice, allowing regional fashion to gain greater recognition while celebrating cultural heritage in a contemporary way. It is inspiring to see how the UAE continues to support and shape a dynamic and influential fashion scene.
Modest fashion continues to gain global recognition. How do you see the modest fashion movement evolving in the region today?
Modest fashion today continues to evolve beautifully, gaining recognition both regionally and globally. In the region, we see designers confidently blending cultural heritage with modern trends, creating pieces that are both elegant and contemporary.
In my designs, I always follow the flow of trends while maintaining the identity of My Fancy Closet, ensuring that each collection reflects modest elegance while staying true to the brand’s aesthetic.
What do you think women are looking for from fashion today, particularly in the Gulf?
They are looking for individuality in their style. They want to feel unique and different in the way they dress, choosing pieces that reflect their personality and suit their body. Fashion has become a way of expressing confidence and personal identity while still embracing elegance and cultural values.
Your brand reflects a slower and more intentional approach to fashion. Why do you believe this mindset is becoming increasingly important in today’s industry?
I believe a slower and more intentional approach to fashion is becoming increasingly important because it allows designers to focus on quality, craftsmanship, and meaning rather than simply producing more. When time and care are given to each piece, the result feels more thoughtful and lasting. For me, fashion is not only about trends, but about creating pieces that women can value, wear, and remember for special moments. This mindset brings more authenticity and purpose to the industry.
What challenges have you faced while building your brand, and what lessons have those experiences taught you as a founder?
When I started in 2013, there were very few competitors in this field. Today, the industry has grown significantly, and there are many more brands in the market, so I have to stay active and continually evolve to remain relevant. What I have learned is that passion is essential. I always create collections that I genuinely feel inspired by, and that connection to the work helps keep the brand authentic and meaningful.
What advice would you give to young designers or entrepreneurs in the region who are hoping to build their own fashion labels?
Never give up on your dreams, no matter the challenges you face along the way. If you truly believe in your vision and keep working toward it with dedication, you will eventually reach the place you aspire to be. Passion and perseverance are the most important foundations for any successful journey.
Finally, what is the vision for My Fancy Closet and where would you like to see the brand go next?
My vision for My Fancy Closet is to continue growing while staying true to the brand’s identity of elegance and femininity. I hope to expand the brand’s presence and reach more women who appreciate unique and meaningful designs. At the same time, I want to keep creating collections that tell a story and make women feel special when they wear them. The goal is to continue evolving while preserving the heart and authenticity of the brand
By Lindsay Judge
