The Fashion Informer: April 2009

Beloved by celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Beyonce and Catherine Zeta Jones, designer Reem Acra’s uber-feminine red carpet creations are defined a sophisticated silhouette, rich color palette, ornate embroidery and lush fabrications.

Although the Lebanon native studied fashion design at FIT in New York and Esmod in Paris, she spent more than a decade working as an interior designer before launching her eponymous bridal business in 1997. Acra launched her evening collection in 2003, and ready-to-wear followed in the spring of 2008.

The Fashion Informer caught up with the always-gracious designer just after the holidays to get the low-down on her beauty must-have, her fantasy splurge and her devotion to dance (cha, cha, cha).

So, Reem…

What did you do for Christmas/New Year's?

I went to Dubai and then to Lebanon. I saw 20 friends from my middle school class; we were really excited to see each other after so many years. This was the highlight of my trip this year.

Tell me about your most memorable New Year's Eve.

They are the times when I get to spend quality time with my family.

What is your favorite city in the world?

Beirut - it energizes me and brings back memories of my childhood.

How long does it take you to get ready to go to work in the morning, and what's your usual routine?

My hairdresser comes almost every morning and does my hair. While he is working, I am on my Blackberry emailing the office and friends overseas and also phoning too. I'll spend another hour to get ready and continue to intermittently email and speak on the phone.

What's the one beauty/grooming item you cannot live without?

A hairdresser.

If you could only shop in one store for the rest of your life, what store would it be?

A flea market.

What do you like to do to relax in your off-hours?

I love dancing and take lessons a few times a week. I've taken cha-cha, salsa, and hustle lessons. I love it.

What's your favorite sport to watch? To participate in?

Ice skating.

If you found $15,000 cash, how would you spend it?

I'd spend it on vintage dresses or one nice antique piece of furniture or item.

What one question would you like to ask God, assuming s/he exists?

I always thank him for what he gives me every day. Interestingly, I came across my diary from when I was 12. In it, I wrote a prayer, thanking him for my beautiful future that I foresaw for myself.

What is your favorite mode of transportation?

Car.

Do you have any hidden or unusual talents?

Well I have a kind of sixth sense.

What are the different challenges you face when designing your bridal collection, vs. your ready-to-wear line?

Each one is different and I have to remind myself always they both require different moods and styles, even if it is the same customer.

What freaks you out?

Lying.

When are you happiest?

Always. I have found my true meaning a long time ago which most struggle to find. I am happy when I make an impact and a difference in people's lives. Being part of their most momentous and significant days in their life - we become friends!

Stay tuned for Random Questions For…John Varvatos