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Asha Raval Shows Us How To Wear This Season’s Hero Pieces

Queen of maximalist dressing, digital creator and product designer Asha Raval has a talent for clashing and layering pieces in the most deliberate way. The result? A style that commands attention for all the right reasons

How to Update… A Tube Skirt

The beauty of this approach is that it works across a whole spectrum of skirt lengths – from a sharp tube to a swaying midi or even a floor-grazing silhouette. The trick lies in building the look with intention. Start with two (bold) base colours and let them anchor the outfit, then layer: a striking pattern, a flash of metallic or a detail that catches the light and adds just the right amount of drama. Some of the most compelling maximalist looks, in fact, come from dressing more modestly – where volume, shape and tailoring do the talking. Asha tells us: “Some of the most striking silhouettes in fashion are actually modest: dramatic sleeves, sculptural tailoring, sweeping coats, and long skirts. When the silhouette is strong and the styling is intentional, you don’t need to reveal much for a look to feel powerful.”

Brighten Up

Blazer, Dhs9,600, Magda Butrym
Gloves, Dhs4,125, Balenciaga
Skirt, Dhs7,290, Gucci
Fleur du Mal EDP, Dhs1,275 for 100ml, Dries Van Noten
Keyring, Dhs1,010, Moschino
Jumpsuit, Dhs3,425, Dries Van Noten
Shoes, Dhs5,000, Christian Louboutin
Ring, Dhs2,030, Bea Bongiasca

How to Update…Sequins

Top, Dhs1,330, CultNakedT. Shoes, Dhs4,020, Magda Butrym. Bag, Dhs885, Kate Spade. Necklaces, Dhs1,190 each, all Pearl Octopuss.y. Skirt; Shirt; Belt; Tights, all Asha’s own

Once upon a time, sequins were strictly reserved for after-dark dalliances. Thankfully, fashion has since loosened the rules. Today, sequins sparkle just as brightly in daylight, the secret to making them feel modern lies in the mix. Pairing sequins with contrasting textures keeps the look fresh and decidedly of-the-moment. When it comes to layering, Asha’s approach is masterful as she explains: “I focus on texture rather than volume – pairing silk with wool, leather with knits, or structured tailoring with something fluid. This creates richness and depth without adding bulk. For hotter climates, layering doesn’t have to mean heavy pieces. You can layer lightweight fabrics like silk, chiffon, or cotton, or even layer through statement jewellery and accessories to create dimension and interest without adding heat.”

Mix & Clash

Shirt, Dhs2,105, Mia Peculiar
Bag, Dhs4,415, Rabanne
Corset, Dhs3,280, Magda Butrym
Gloves, Dhs3,650, Bottega Veneta
Shoes, Dhs5,300, Khaite
Skirt, Dhs27,500, Khaite
Necklace, Dhs920, Julietta
Earrings, Dhs2,105, Oscar De La Renta

How to Update… A Day Suit

Jacket; Skirt, POA, both Vintage Christian Lacroix. Boots, Dhs2,405, Magda Butrym. Belt, Dhs1,285, Shop Haley J. Bag, POA, GCDS. Sunglasses, Asha’s Own

Creative, fearless and expressive are the three words the Digital Creator and Product Designer uses to describe herself. Herm style is rewriting the rules of what “office dressing” can look like. Maximalism, after all, doesn’t have to arrive all at once. It can begin with something small: a statement accessory or a detail that feels just a little braver than yesterday. It’s about easing yourself in until the everyday uniform startsn to feel a little more like you. As Asha puts it: “For some people that might mean wearing one special piece of jewellery, choosing a colour they normally wouldn’t wear, or adding a piece that feels a little more joyful than what they’re used to. Confidence grows gradually, and fashion should feel empowering, never intimidating.”

Bold Over

Dress, Dhs13,300, Saint Laurent
Monochrome Hyper Matte Lipstick in P55, Dhs200, Prada Beauty
Oriana EDP, Dhs1,490 for 75ml, Parfums De Marly
Earrings, Dhs1,655, Area
Scarf, Dhs2,650, Magda Butrym
Skirt Dhs17,600, ALAÏA
Shoes, Dhs3,800, Versace
Ring, Dhs18,800, Cartier

Images Supplied

Lead Image Credits: Jacket, POA, Vintage Christian Lacroix. Skirt, POA, ALÉMAIS. Shoes, POA, Prada. Belt, Dhs10,100, Schiaparelli. Bag, Dhs2,250, Cult Gaia. Gloves; Tights, both Asha’s

Fashion Edit by: Marguerita Christoforidis
Featuring: Asha Raval

From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia April 2026 Issue

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