Ingie Chalhoub on Etoile La Boutique’s debut at Dubai Fashion Week

In this exclusive interview she explains why now was the right time for a runway show
For the first time, Ingie Chalhoub, the driving force behind Etoile La Boutique, presented the brand’s offering on the Dubai Fashion Week runway, marking another important milestone in her illustrious career.
Known for pioneering luxury retail in the region and championing both international and emerging designers, Chalhoub’s show was just the latest vivid example of how she continues to support the global fashion industry.
In this exclusive interview, she discusses why now was the right moment for a runway show, the importance of sustainability and inclusivity in fashion, and her unwavering commitment to showcasing talent from the region on a global scale.
This is your first time presenting at Dubai Fashion Week for Etoile La Boutique. What made you decide that now is the right moment?
Dubai Fashion Week has grown tremendously, and I’ve been involved in its evolution for many years. In the beginning, I showcased my collections in Paris and was even recognized for my work there. But seeing how Dubai Fashion Week has expanded and gained international recognition, I felt this was the right time to be part of it.
What do you want to communicate through your debut show?
This show is about bringing talent together. It’s a platform to highlight the sustainable brands we represent, introduce local designers, and showcase the international brands we carry. It’s also about supporting Dubai Fashion Week itself and further cementing its status as a global fashion capital.

How important is international press coverage for you?
Extremely important. Etoile La Boutique was the first to bring top international designers and haute couture houses to the region. Since day one, we’ve been pioneers in introducing brands that were not present in this market. Now, it’s time to not only celebrate that but also ensure the world sees Dubai as a true fashion hub. I was actually one of the first to put together a fashion week here years ago, bringing haute couture to Dubai long before it had the presence it does today.
Sustainability seems to be a growing focus for Etoile La Boutique. How does that influence the brands you carry?
Sustainability is a key focus for us. Today, more than 50% of the brands we carry are sustainable, and our goal is to increase that even further. It’s important to me personally, and it aligns with our vision as a company. Beyond sustainability, we’re also committed to promoting local designers, ensuring they gain exposure on the global fashion stage.
Inclusivity also is a priority for you. How do you ensure your boutique caters to a diverse audience?
Inclusivity is at the heart of what we do. It’s not just about offering a range of sizes but also about empowering women through fashion. I want our boutique to be a place where every woman, regardless of shape or background, finds something that makes her feel beautiful. Beyond that, I also hope to push for more inclusivity in the industry by supporting initiatives that embrace diversity, including greater representation of people with disabilities in fashion.
When you step out for your bow at the end of the show, what do you hope the audience feels?
want them to feel inspired. Whether through the styling, the introduction of new brands, or the overall experience, I hope the show brings a sense of discovery. More than just a runway presentation, I want it to feel like an exceptional journey – one that connects with real women and offers pieces they would wear from morning to evening.

Etoile La Boutique has seen impressive growth. Can you share some insights into your expansion?
We’ve grown significantly over the past year, doubling both our brand portfolio and turnover. We’ve expanded our spaces in Galeries Lafayette in Dubai Mall and in Doha. We’ve also opened new locations and are growing in Riyadh, where we are revamping and expanding our presence. There’s a growing appetite for our multi-brand concept, and we’re committed to keeping up with that demand by creating bigger and more refined spaces.
What’s next for Etoile La Boutique?
We’re continuing to evolve. Our focus is on modernizing our spaces, refining our brand curation, and ensuring that we continue to set the standard for luxury multi-brand retail in the region. Fashion is always changing, and we plan to keep leading the way.
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