The National interviewed Nicole Richie whilst she showcased her collection at a pop-up shop at the Dubai Shopping Festival.

What have you made of the UAE’s fashion scene and why was Dubai a choice market for you?

Well, I’ve been here less than 24 hours so it’s hard to say, but I must say that people here have a “look”. They take risks, they go for it and have fun with fashion. That’s really exciting for me and why I started this brand in the first place.

Any plans to open a boutique here?

I’d love to be here permanently in Dubai. I think that the city is really great at nurturing brands and it understands how to speak to customers; helping them understand what brands are all about. So yes I’d like to be here.

How do we best understand your brand?

It’s eclectic, fun and meant to be layered with other pieces. It’s supposed to make you feel free, confident and happy. It’s very music-inspired and I love the late 1960s, early 1970s, classic rock – that’s what hits home for me. I also love hitting flea markets wherever I am and especially if I’m traveling with my husband. I love finding new patterns, a colour, even a lampshade that I feel could be used as an earring! I like seeing alternative uses for things.

What are your three top picks from this capsule collection?

The shorts with suede fringing, the Chelsea sunglasses and the candles. I’ve taken my first step into homeware with the candles this year, so I’ll probably be expanding upon that. I love interiors and I love design so I’d say that would be a natural next stage.

Read the full interview over at The National by clicking here.