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Holding heritage and glamour, the Judith Leiber brand is not new to the world of tantalising luxury. And their new Year of the Dragon capsule collection is only an extension of that reign.
Continuing its crystal legacy, the Chief Creative Officer of the women-led brand walks us through the intricacies of the edit. Celebrating its expansion in Dubai, Jana Matheson, unveiled the inspirations behind the standout pieces, at the glorious launch party in renowned hotspot Mott 32.
Symbolising power, strength, and good fortune, the mesmerising awe all 26 designs leave you in, is only the one of the reasons you need these pieces in your arsenal.
For more on the creative process behind the capsule and its Middle Eastern entrance, GRAZIA sits down with the visionary Jana Matheson.
@grazia_me A crystalised Lunar New Year 🧧 @Judith Leiber Couture celebrates the Year of the Dragon at Mott 32. #GraziaME #Dubai #Fashion #Mott32
GRAZIA: Talk us through the story of Judith Leiber.
Jana Matheson (JM): Judith Leiber is a name synonymous with elegance, style, and sophistication. For 60 years, Judith Leiber’s incomparable evening bags and crystal minaudieres have been recognized worldwide for their meticulous attention to detail, flawless hand-craftmanship and whimsical designs. Minaudieres from the collection are part of the permanent design archives of premiere museums across the globe. Jana Matheson, EVP, and Chief Creative Officer has been at the helm of Judith Leiber Couture since 2010. Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger joined the Judith Leiber brand as co-owner, Creative Director, and brand ambassador in 2017.
GRAZIA: Can you elaborate on the inspiration behind the Mott 32 Dubai and Judith Leiber Couture collaboration for the Lunar New Year celebration?
JM: Mott 32 was a perfect location to celebrate Lunar New Year focusing on our Year of the Dragon capsule collection. The elegant Asia inspired ambience, sparkling view and incredible food were the perfect pairing for the handbags.
GRAZIA: How do the meticulously handcrafted evening bags by Judith Leiber Couture capture the Year of the Dragon’s essence and festive opulence?
JM: Through capturing majestic spirit of the Dragon that symbolises strength, power, and good fortune. These stunning pieces are inspired by the festive opulence of a year of prosperity, abundance, and inspiration.
GRAZIA: What distinguishes Mott 32 Dubai’s special Judith Leiber Couture-inspired menu from its regular offerings, and what can guests expect from this unique dining experience?
JM: Guests can expect a fusion of haute couture and haute cuisine. With a specially curated menu inspired by the opulent designs of our newest, this collaboration brings a unique twist to its renowned offerings. From the Steamed Scallop with Garlic Vermicelli to the Dragon Egg dessert, each dish reflects the festive spirit with exquisite flavours and presentation. Complemented by bespoke cocktails, this dining experience promises to immerse guests in a world of luxury and culinary delight. All set against the breathtaking backdrop of Dubai’s skyline.
GRAZIA: Talk us through the inspiration for the designs.
JM: The Dragons Realm Eggs in Red and Dark Indigo, have handcrafted polished brass ornaments in a lotus floral repeat. We’ve also added brass flames and dragons in the centre of the egg. The capsule is colored in bold shades of red and gold for prosperity, strength, wisdom, and good fortune. The fan, a symbol of good luck and happiness, is also part of the collection. Each piece comes with intricate dragons’ shades of red, gold, and long silk tassels to add movement and flair. Dragon’s Fortune and Dragon’s Flight eggs are traditional artworks painted by our artisans. They celebrate the wildly colorful, sinewy dragon often portrayed in Lunar New Year traditional dances.
GRAZIA: Why Dubai?
JM: I love Dubai! People dress up, go out and always sparkle with a fearlessly glitzy glam aesthetic. From the skyline, interiors, all the way down to the shoes and bags.
GRAZIA: How many designs from Judith Leiber Couture will be showcased at Mott 32, and what significance does the 2024 Year of the Dragon collection hold in this collaboration?
JM: You’ll see 26 designs from Judith Leiber Couture, including the special 2024 Year of the Dragon collection. This collection is culturally significant, honouring Chinese traditions by symbolising power, strength, and good fortune. It showcases Judith Leiber’s craftsmanship and Mott 32’s dedication to cultural diversity.
