Two Local UAE Fashion Brands You Need To Know

As the saying goes…”when you support small business, you’re supporting a dream.” And whether someones dream is big or small, knowing that you’ve helped contribute to a community, a family or a start-up gives a sense of fulfilment and happiness. Two local, home-grown fashion brands that need to be on everyones radar is Shoeq – an iconic shoe brand whose collections are carefully handcrafted by skilled artisans in Europe and Ptichka – an elegant, passion-driven clothing brand with classic investment pieces as part of their sustainable collection.
Shoeq, founded by Australian expat Kate Tavener, has gone from strength to strength as one of THE go-to retailers for the most stylish and comfortable classic flats, espadrilles and wedges. I’ve personally been wearing Shoeq shoes for years and I can vouch for the fact that I can actually run in a pair of the high Sienna wedge espadrilles, the perfect shoe if you need height but want to also be incredibly comfortable (and run around after your kids if you need to!). In addition, I also thought the perfect flat sandal didn’t exist until I tried on a pair of the Shoeq Hania slides and now they are a permanent fixture on my feet. They’re simple, elegant, sophisticated, they go with EVERYTHING, I can dress them up or dress them down and the leather is incredibly soft. In fact, I feel like my feet just mould into them. I’m wearing the tan here but they are also available in champagne gold, white, toffee, charcoal, caramel and rose gold. Shoeq also offers international shipping with all their products.
Ptichka, which translates to ‘Little Bird’ is a sustainable fashion brand with meticulous attention to detail and with comfort and style in their minds when it comes to curating their collections. I’m wearing the Veronica dress from the SS24 collection in blue linen cotton with the most adorable bow detail at the back of the dress giving it a ladylike and cute touch. The dress is perfect for all-day wear plus you could totally glam this up with a pair of heels or Shoeq wedges. Sustainability is a key driver for the brand also and the loose shift dress is made of a linen cotton fabric mix, and an open back with ties. The frilled hem adds a little touch of movement and charm. I will admit it’s a great dress for the UAE climate as it’s light and cool and just so easy to throw on whether you’re on the school run or meeting friends for a casual lunch.