My UAE: Suhail Matar’s swimware design aspirations

In conversation with Suhail Matar, who left a cushy job to fulfill his dreams.

Suhail Matar, 25 left a cosy job in the TV industry to branch out on his own. Lee Hoagland / The National

Suhail Matar wanted to feel like he was always on vacation. So the 25-year-old Emirati from Dubai created a fashion house dedicated to designing resort and getaway clothes, including swimsuits.

“Whenever you wear one of Suhail Matar’s clothes, it should feel like you are on vacation,” he laughs.

As far as he knows, he is the only Emirati designing and making swimming trunks in distinct prints for men in the UAE. He hopes to expand into women’s swimwear soon.

In the two years since he launched his collection, he has become known as the “swimming suit man”. The inspiration for his brand name Velorum, came from his own name, Suhail – the star system in the constellation of Vella that is known for its brightness. The Arabs referred to several of Argo’s stars as Suhail, including Canopus, where its disappearance and appearance mark the summer. So it seems summer and Matar’s life are connected regardless of the actual astronomical name of the stars.

“The UAE culture is tied to the beach and I wanted to bring that out through my clothes. One should alway feels relaxed and comfortable in them,” he says.

The young Emirati has been sketching clothes and designs since the age of 15. He studied general media at the Higher Colleges of Technology in Dubai and worked in TV for two years before deciding to start his own business and returning to his original passion.

His women's clothes collection can be found at The Fashion Vault at Sunset Mall, Dubai, and swimsuits can be bought online at www.thestylechamber.com.

“With every collection, I learn something new. What worked, what didn’t and I build on that.”

“What I like about this field, is that it is always an adventure,” he says.

Favourite perfume?

Bleu de Chanel, or Chanel Blue for men.

Who is your role model?

My mother is my hero. She always tells me, whatever you do, just continue and move forward, bad or good, until you reach your goal. She reminds me to never give up on my dreams.

Who is your fashion idol?

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana – I really like the brand and love what they create.

Favourite motto?

Trust your struggles.

Favourite cartoons?

Anything by Disney is amazing. One of my all-time favourites is Alice in Wonderland (1951). Such a great cartoon, full of adventure.

Favourite dishes?

Anything Italian is good – I love all kinds of pasta.

Favourite drink?

Pineapple and green apple juice. It is so refreshing.

Favourite music?

Red Hot Chili Peppers when I work, and Kylie Minogue’s old classics when I am not working.

Advice to young Emiratis?

Never give up, continue what you want to do. So many brands come out, then suddenly stop. They don’t continue when they hit a bump. The key is to just continue even if you are losing.

Favourite actress?

Jennifer Aniston. She really acts well in comedies.

Favourite movie?

Most recently Blue Jasmine (2013 American movie written and directed by Woody Allen). I really enjoyed it.

Favourite pastime?

I try my best to hang out with friends and family whenever I find free time. Being with loved ones is the best pastime.