A team of Dubai-based retailers and the global appeal of Premiere Classe

For the buyers at Al Tayer, based in Dubai, Premiere Classe is an essential destination for discovering emerging brands and spotting unique pieces that resonate with their luxury-conscious clientele. This year, Anastasia Gurskaya and other members of her team focused on accessories and jewellery, seeking out brands that align with the Middle Eastern market’s appreciation for exclusivity, craftsmanship, and sustainability.

We spoke with Anastasia about her impressions of this edition of the show, the evolution of trends specific to Dubai, and Paris’s key role as a central fixture in the international fashion calendar.

In search of exclusivity in accessories and jewellery


For most buyers operating in the Middle East, accessories and jewellery remain a top priority. “This year, our main goal was to find brands offering exceptional craftsmanship and a real sense of exclusivity,” said Anastasia. “We pay close attention to jewellery brands with strong storytelling, and to bags that offer unique customisation options for our discerning customers.

A standout discovery was Entitled Edition, an Italian jewellery brand. “The quality is outstanding, and the colour palette is beautiful. It’s a visually striking product that will work just as well in physical stores as on our digital platforms,” she noted.

Another highlight came from Minime Paris, whose bag charms caught the team’s attention as both playful and commercially promising. “Bag charms are a huge trend in accessories right now. The price positioning is attractive, production lead times are short, and the ability to create exclusive designs makes them a perfect fit for our market.

Also worth noting was Kiska Lab, a jewellery brand with a bold, disruptive style. “Although our clientele often favours timeless luxury, we’re seeing growing interest in strong, avant-garde pieces. So we’ve curated a balanced selection that blends distinctive design with commercial appeal.”

‘Quiet luxury’ and evolving trends


Luxury consumers in Dubai — historically drawn to more ostentatious fashion — are shifting in how they shop. “There’s a growing focus on what’s being called quiet luxury: exclusive pieces, but with discreet branding,” explained Anastasia. “Our clients are looking for sustainable purchases, investing in high-quality, well-crafted designs rather than chasing fleeting trends.

This shift is shaping their buying strategy. “While we still offer strong, eye-catching items, we’re now placing more emphasis on refined designs with understated elegance,” she added. “For instance, structured bags in neutral tones, sculptural jewellery with subtle detailing, and versatile accessories that transition from day to night.” 

Premiere Classe: a global meeting point for buyers and creators


For Anastasia, attending Premiere Classe is not just about product discovery — it’s also about building relationships. “This show is extremely convenient because it allows us to meet many brands in one place, including emerging designers who might not otherwise have access to buyers.”


The Al Tayer team also appreciates the show’s format. “Unlike some trade shows where you only interact with sales reps, here you can speak directly with the designers. Understanding a brand’s creative vision helps us build a selection that tells a story to our clients.

Beyond the unique services offered by Premiere Classe, its location in Paris continues to define the show’s identity. “Paris is still the epicentre of fashion. All the major buyers gather here, whether or not they attend Milan or New York. It’s a true global crossroads that brings together different creative energies — a must-stop on our buying calendar.

The role of emerging brands in the Dubai market


With this season’s discoveries in mind, Anastasia is optimistic about integrating new brands into their portfolio. “We’re always looking to balance established luxury houses with innovative designers. The goal is to find emerging brands that bring something genuinely new — whether through craftsmanship, unique materials, or an original take on classic styles.”


As Dubai’s retail landscape continues to evolve, Premiere Classe remains a key destination for creative discovery — especially for those aiming to bridge global trends with local tastes. “It’s about finding pieces that have something special — products our clients will hold onto for years.


Following another successful buying trip to Paris, Anastasia and her team are now focused on finalising their curation and introducing new designers to the increasingly demanding Middle Eastern market.

Yann Jobard Setzu

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