Muna Yousef chatted with Splash’s new brand ambassador, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Raza Beig, Director – Landmark Group and CEO of Splash, at the unveiling of the label’s eye-catching and eco-friendly new collection.
There was an excited twinkle in Jacqueline’s eyes when she knew that Woman This Month had flown all the way to Dubai to meet with her. “I’m so happy you are here,” she said.
“This magazine and Bahrain This Month are something I grew up on!” Talking about one of her fondest memories of her early years on the island, she giggles: “Shopping at Splash for special occasions! I remember wanting to take everything in the store home.”
The former Bahrain resident is now a renowned Bollywood beauty, and, according to Raza, the best fit for Splash. “Her energy levels, beauty and happiness epitomise what Splash is – a young, energetic brand,” he says.
Sustainability
Jacqueline adds: “They have known me long before anyone knew I’d be foraying into the world of entertainment, so we do go back a long way. I’m inspired that the brand I grew up on has been doing sustainable fashion that is morally and socially ethical. It’s something along my beliefs and that I like to create awareness of. So, I’m glad I’m part of this family.”
The brand’s wares claim to be 70 per cent sustainable, which is scheduled to go to 80 per cent by spring-summer. Raza says: “Five years ago, we changed our model to enable sustainability. At a time when sustainable fashion was just a buzzword, I was shocked to learn that fashion left one of the biggest carbon footprints in the world. So, we changed things, and today, every pin and piece of plastic in our business is sustainable and biodegradable. We started with the bags, then went into fabrics and dyes. Nineteen plastic bottles make a blouse. Going forward, we are going to avoid certain materials that are not sustainable in our collections. With the knowledge we have acquired, the quality of such clothing has improved. This year, we hope to sell 50 million pieces of sustainable fashion.”
Saudi Breakthrough
Another first for Jacqueline is gracing the Splash billboards in Saudi Arabia. “It’s a big moment for us, to have that visibility in Saudi. Being the first female celebrity featured on a billboard at the airport there is a major accomplishment and I am extremely proud of it and of Splash.” she says. “Also, walking the ramp for Splash is going to be a big moment for me and my family.”
Afterall, growing up in the Middle East is a big part of the star’s personality. She says: “It was such a great childhood. My siblings and I have the fondest memories of growing up in Bahrain. It’s a peaceful, beautiful, safe place with really warm and welcoming people.
Growing up in the Arab culture has taught me so much and has definitely shaped who I am. There is also their fashion sense! I love the way Arab women dress and carry themselves; it’s so elegant.”
JACQUELINE FUN FACTS
Bucket list – Besides Saudi Arabia, to visit the North or South Pole. And to study further to acquire a master’s degree.
Guilty Pleasure – Binge watching Netflix.
Most and least favourite way to stay in shape – I love dancing, and I hate cutting out sugar, that’s a pain.
