Interview with Ingie Paris

President and Managing director of Etoile Groupe, Ingie Chalhoub has harnessed an amazing list of achievements both in the Middle-East and globally. Armed with a majestic sense of style and a timeless love for luxury brands she mind-blowingly created her own line “Ingie Paris” taking the fashion scene by storm. Most recently, she was added to the Chamber Syndicate’s Official Presentations Calendar at Paris Fashion Week.

Azyaamode sat down with this extraordinary businesswoman and designer to talk about her career, her prêt-a-porter line and more!

 

What drove you to enter the fashion world?

Growing up with a family that has always exposed me to beautiful objects and has helped me develop an irrefutable attention to detail with a deep appreciation for exceptional masterpieces was a very solid base. It was only natural for me to embrace the fashion world and to cease the opportunity to create new helms in this artistic domain.

Could you tell us more about Ingie Paris? How did it all start?

I’ve always worked in the fashion industry with a secret desire to create my own brand, simply by combining a bold DNA, an established sense of style and an intricate know-how.

Your showroom atelier is based in Paris, what does this city mean to you?

Paris is first and foremost the city I grew up in. The tantalizing charm of Parisian ladies combined with their style is something I’ve always loved. And since it is also one of the fashion capitals, it made total sense to base my atelier in Paris.

From where do you draw inspirations when designing a new collection?

I often draw inspiration from movements, paintings, an artist or even an exhibition. I then carry on with colors to create a palette with suitable tonalities. And just like the art of cooking, I explore different themes in order to create several recipes with unforgettable and unique flavors.

 

" It’s simply who I am: a woman, a wife, a mother,

a businesswoman and a creator. That’s me! "

 

Were there any challenges as to finding your brand’s identity?

Finding a brand identity is not a challenge. It is you, like your DNA. You just have to keep your vision, your creativity, be open-minded in order to build the leadership of the brand, and affirm your DNA.

Who is the woman representing Ingie Paris?

Nowadays, active women are seeking a mode that is elegant and sophisticated, but also practical. These women are cheerful, vivacious and aiming for a constant feminine feel. Ingie Paris fulfills the needs of this particular woman. She has an oh-so recognizable look of a true Parisian. She could also have an international life, with a multicultural outlook and a suitcase full off the joys of practical and rational outfits, fit for the life of a jet-setter.

The DNA of the Ingie woman is that of a strong and assertive woman. Ingie Paris’ pieces have a couture approach, with exceptional fabrics and a unique know-how. Outfits are extremely neat, with high-end finishing details. The materials are carefully selected and complement each other tastefully. Ingie Pari’s clothes perfectly mold silhouettes in order to magnify their beauty, always with great joy and cheerfulness.

You run a business empire, design your own label and are a mother of two. Do you find it hard mastering the art of multi-tasking?

It’s not really multi-tasking as much as it is part of my identity. It’s simply who I am: a woman, a wife, a mother, a businesswoman and a creator. That’s me!

We gather a lot of A-list stars have added your designs to their wardrobes. Do you think this endorsement played a big role in the Ingie Paris success story?

Of course, I am very happy to see that Ingie Paris’ collections are desirable. These endorsements are beautiful collaborations and lovely encounters.

Being a widely-acclaimed entrepreneur and designer yourself, what sort of tips and advice would you give our readers?

Believe in your dreams and trust yourself! As French writer, poet and adventurer Antoine de Saint Exupery wrote:  “You can’t provide the future, but you can allow it.”

And please, have fun!!

What’s next for Ingie Paris?

Loads of projects! New collections, new stores, new jewel collections!! Ingie Paris is energetic, joyful and full of surprises.

 

Cindy Menassa



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