Meet the Lebanese stylist serving up looks at Expo 2020 Dubai
Roula Kehdi, a longtime fashion consultant and star of her own show with MTV Lebanon called “Fashionista,” has been selected to style the anchors and hosts for three television shows on Dubai TV, Abu Dhabi TV and Emarat TV that are dedicated to covering Expo 2020 Dubai.
Though she has other collaborations under her belt, this is the “biggest challenge,” said the Lebanese stylist to Arab News.
“I’m proud of each job I’ve taken, but I think Expo 2020 is the biggest challenge and I think I’m going to be very proud of it,” she said.
Her involvement with the six-month-long world exhibition began when she was approached by UAE-based production company Studiovision Dubai.
“When Studiovision approached me, I was scared because it’s a very challenging project,” she explained. “I’m happy I took the risk. It’s challenging because I have three shows — one morning show and two evening shows — and 15 anchors to style on a daily basis. It’s not easy at all, but I’m happy I’m here,” she added.
In addition to her fruitful television career, Kehdi also spearheads her own leather accessories brand, Roula Kehdi Creations, which focuses on wallets, handbags and laptop cases handmade in Lebanon.
Describing own aesthetic as “funky” and “out-of-the-box,” she reveals that the looks typically seen on her clients are influenced by a range of factors that include their personal styles and mood. Additionally, the fashion consultant has to adhere to the styling requirements of the particular television show she is working on. “You have to adapt,” she explained.
While the Lebanon native doesn’t limit herself when it comes to the designers she works with, she does make it a point to highlight and uplift Arab talent. “I’m happy that Lebanese and Arab designers are now everywhere. They went international and we’re so proud of them,” she said.
Kehdi, who began her television career 12 years ago, launched her own television show “Fashionista” in 2015, which she credits for bringing her many opportunities. “I cover everything to do with fashion. It’s my passion,” she said. “My show opened many doors for me, one of which is Expo 2020.”