A true pioneer in the world of luxury fashion, Ingie Chalhoub is the visionary force behind Etoile La Boutique, the Middle East’s premier multi-brand destination for high fashion.
With an innate sense of style and an unwavering commitment to elegance, Chalhoub has played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s luxury landscape. As one of the first to bring European haute couture to the Gulf, she has spent decades curating a space where exclusivity meets individuality, offering discerning clients a selection of the world’s most coveted designer collections. More than just a boutique, Etoile is a reflection of Chalhoub’s impeccable taste and deep understanding of fashion, making it a go-to destination for women who seek sophistication with a contemporary edge. Earlier this year, Etoile La Boutique staged a captivating runway show at Dubai Fashion Week. Under the theme “Twilight to Midnight”, the show focused on the way women’s outfits transition from day to night and how the modern woman is increasingly looking for versatility in her clothing. After the show, we caught up with Ingie Chalhoub to find out why it was the perfect moment for this showcase and what to expect from Etoile La Boutique and Etoile Group in the coming years.
Congratulations on the recent show at Dubai Fashion Week – tell us about the show and the designs that were showcased.
Thank you so much! It was an incredible experience. At Dubai Fashion Week, we showcased a collection that really speaks to the heart of Etoile La Boutique – a blend of classic luxury with a modern twist. We wanted to highlight pieces that feel both timeless and fresh. From stunning ready-to-wear designs to accessories, each item was chosen to tell a story of craftsmanship and style. It was all about celebrating the versatile, sophisticated woman who loves to make a statement, no matter the occasion.
Tell us more about the Twilight to Midnight concept and the vision behind it.
The ‘Twilight to Midnight’ concept is about embracing the transition from day to night. We wanted to showcase how fashion can evolve with a woman’s mood and needs throughout the day. Whether it’s a sophisticated day look that effortlessly transforms into something more glamorous for the evening, the idea was to create a seamless flow between two distinct moments. The collection was chosen to reflect that journey, with each piece making the woman feel confident and chic, from the first light of day until the last.
Why did you feel it was right to showcase at Dubai Fashion Week and how do you think this platform is helping to support the fashion industry in the UAE?
Dubai Fashion Week is a dynamic platform, and it felt like the right place to showcase our collection. The city is steadily growing as a hub for global fashion and creativity, and being part of this evolving community is important to us. It’s exciting to see how the event is developing and gaining recognition, playing a role in shaping the fashion scene in the UAE. By bringing together talent from around the world, it provides both local and international designers with valuable exposure and opportunities.
On a broader scale what is the current vision and focus for Etoile La Boutique?
At Etoile La Boutique, we continue to focus on offering our clients a curated selection of the best luxury brands, while also championing those with a unique, purposeful story. We also continue to be the only multi-brand boutique with a regional presence across the UAE, KSA and Qatar. We aim to be more than just a store – we want to be a destination for style, inspiration, and innovation. The vision is to stay ahead of the curve by carefully balancing tradition with modernity while always staying true to our values of quality, craftsmanship, and creativity.
Etoile Group celebrated its 40th anniversary last year – how has the company evolved over the past four decades?
It’s been an incredible journey! Etoile Group has always been about pushing boundaries and redefining luxury in the region. Over the years, we’ve expanded our portfolio, introduced new brands, and strengthened our presence across the GCC and Levant. Our vision has always been clear: to bring the best in luxury fashion while evolving with the needs of our customers and the market.
The past year alone has been a testament to that evolution. We’ve marked major milestones, from launching ETRO in Bahrain and KSA, bringing the brand closer to a fashion-forward clientele, to opening new TOD’S boutiques in Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Bahrain, reinforcing our commitment to Italian craftsmanship. Etoile La Boutique continues to thrive, with a revamped space at Galeries Lafayette Doha, Galleria Mall Abu Dhabi and Dubai Mall offering an elevated shopping experience and a new boutique opened in Jeddah.
We’ve also expanded our footprint with Chanel, launching new boutiques in Bahrain and Riyadh, while revamping two of our existing boutiques in Jeddah and Kuwait to further enhance the luxury experience. Our partnership with Ralph Lauren has seen significant growth, with six new openings across the region, including the worldwide premiere of the first Polo Ralph Lauren beach shop at Atlantis, The Palm Resort in Dubai. And with Aquazzura, we’ve strengthened our presence in the region, with five new stores in Bahrain, Riyadh, Jeddah, Kuwait, and Dubai, offering our customers more access to the brand’s signature designs.
The last 40 years have been full of growth, challenges, and rewards, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built. But more importantly, I’m excited about what’s next as we continue to innovate and shape the future of luxury retail in the region.
What would you still like to achieve?
There’s always more to do! I’m passionate about continuing to expand Etoile Group’s presence both regionally and internationally, and, of course, growing Etoile La Boutique to be a go-to destination for luxury fashion lovers. I also would like to keep finding ways to contribute to the industry in meaningful ways – whether that’s through collaborations, supporting emerging designers, or continuing to champion sustainability in fashion.
How do you stay relevant in a constantly changing market?
The fashion world moves quickly, so we constantly look for new trends, innovations, and ideas that can push us forward. It’s also important to listen to our customers – their needs, desires, and the way they shop are always evolving, so we have to evolve with them. Our long-standing relationships with leading global luxury brands and designers keep us connected to the pulse of the industry. This global perspective, combined with our commitment to creating highly personalised shopping experiences, allows us to anticipate shifts in the market and stay ahead of our customers’ expectations.
What’s the biggest challenge you face in your position?
The biggest challenge is balancing the ever-evolving demands of the fashion industry with staying true to what we stand for. The market is always changing, and with that comes the need to adapt, but we must always ensure we stay authentic to our vision of luxury and excellence. It’s about finding that sweet spot where we can innovate while maintaining the values and standards that have made us who we are.
As a successful female entrepreneur, what advice would you give women who are worried about following their dreams?
Don’t be afraid to take that first step. It’s normal to have doubts, but if you truly believe in your vision and abilities, go for it. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and challenge you to grow. Most importantly, don’t let fear hold you back—failure is just part of the process. It’s through challenges that we learn and grow the most.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learnt throughout your career?
The biggest lesson has been to trust the process. There will always be ups and downs, but if you remain focused on your goals and stay true to your values, things will fall into place. Also, never underestimate the power of hard work and persistence. Every step, no matter how small, counts toward getting you closer to your dreams.
Who is a woman who inspires you?
My mother has always inspired me and continues to inspire me every step of my journey. The strength and belief she put in me made me who I am today. Her determination, grace, and unwavering support have shaped not only my career but also the way I approach challenges and opportunities. She taught me the importance of resilience, passion, and staying true to my vision—values that continue to guide me every day.
What else is in the pipeline for 2025?
We’re always looking ahead! 2025 will be an exciting year for Etoile Group as we continue to expand regionally. We’re planning new store openings, exciting collaborations, and a deeper focus on sustainable fashion. It’s a year of growth, creativity, and pushing boundaries – I can’t wait to share more with everyone soon!
