Gabriella Demetriades, a model, creative director, and founder of Deme, recently made a successful debut at Dubai Fashion Week, showcasing a collection that blends cultural heritage with modern styles. Influenced by her Greek-Cypriot roots and upbringing in Africa and India, Gabriella aims to bring a modern divergence to the “Grecian Warrior Woman” concept. Her latest collection features toga-inspired gowns that celebrate femininity and strength, catering to strong, standout women of all ages and occasions.
Gabriella’s design philosophy focuses on merging sensual cuts with clean lines while balancing form and function in her designs. She wants her pieces to be an extension of the wearer, providing comfort and wearability without compromising elegance. Deme has become synonymous with bold colors and silhouettes, evolving over the years to cater to a diverse audience of confident women looking for unique statement pieces. The brand aims to empower women to experience confidence and grace, embracing their inner strength through fashion.
As sustainability becomes a crucial focus in the fashion industry, Deme incorporates sustainable measures in its production processes, including working with ‘DHL Green’ for packaging to reduce carbon emissions. While it is challenging to achieve complete sustainability in fashion, Gabriella believes that every effort to reduce environmental impact counts. Her own style has evolved over the years, reflecting a strong sense of self-awareness and confidence, evident in her collections that exude classic elegance with a touch of drama.
Inspired by her experiences in India, Gabriella incorporates Indian cultural elements such as vibrant colors, textiles, and design elements into her work. The traditional Indian saree serves as a significant inspiration for her, influencing the elegant and timeless aesthetic of her collections. Looking ahead, Gabriella plans to expand Deme’s reach and design philosophy through product lines and categories, including a jewellery collaboration and new line of handbags.
As the partner of Indian actor Arjun Rampal, Gabriella finds inspiration in the world of cinema, drawing visual cues from films like ‘Alexander’ and ‘Troy’ for her designs. Arjun’s support and fashion sense play a significant role in shaping Gabriella’s work, ensuring that she stays on the right track with her creative vision. With a focus on empowering women through fashion and promoting sustainability in the industry, Gabriella Demetriades and Deme continue to make a mark in the fashion world with their unique blend of cultural heritage and modern style.
