The Buyers Eye... five questions for Lara Barakat!

I believe that fashion is more than just fabric and design, fashion is a medium about the people behind each of the pieces, and the vision they bring to life. That's why I am launching The Buyers Eye, a new column dedicated to introducing you to the wholesale partners and clients who make my brand what it is and who distribute my collections world wide!
In an industry often defined by distance and transactions, I am committed to something different: transparency and genuine connection. Every retailer, boutique owner, and fashion curator we work with has a unique story, a distinct aesthetic, and a mission that drives their business forward. We want you to know them.

In this first Edition I am introducing the owner and buyer of the Boston based boutique DECEMBER THIEVES, Lana Barakat!
I first met Lana in 2015 during Paris Fashion Week in my showroom, ever since then we have been in touch and trying to put together a selection for her boutique, but somehow the distance between Bali, then the pandemic - just didnt want it to happen. BUT last year when I started showcasing in NYC we finally reconnected & the result has been a steady partnership since then!

Below are 5 questions I asked Lana to get more insight into how she thinks about fashion, what her vision is for her boutique, and why she loves Warak Enab!

1. Why did you start December Thieves?

Before December Thieves, I was designing jewellery under my own brand. The experience allowed me to understand firsthand the dedication and vision that it takes to bring one’s work from concept to market. With December Thieves, I wanted to create a space that could take people on a journey of fashion discovery while building a platform to amplify the creative voices of the people and brands I am most passionate about. 

2. When you select items from different brands, what do you look for, and does it ever get tiring to see so many different designs in one week?

When I buy for my store I focus on quality fabrics, exceptional construction, and unexpected silhouettes. Equally important is authenticity in a brand, a distinct point of view and a tactile connection to the creative mind behind it. It can be tiring at times (there’s a lot to see in such a short in span of time!) but discovering brands that resonate with my aesthetic and connecting with the creatives behind those brands both energizes and recharges me.

3. Sapphica, the new collection that just launched at December Thieves, is about resistance through creating art, can you align with this concept, and if yes how?

Absolutely! Like you, everything I do with my brand is designed to empower people to step outside of what’s familiar and move beyond cultural norms. I see art and fashion as a way to question expectations and create space for individuality and self-expression.  Art and fashion should be disruptive, challenge perceptions, and make you look twice.

 
SHOP AT DECEMBER THIEVES!

4. Do you think gendered clothing will actually become obsolete? Why?

Obsolete, likely not in my lifetime. Less relevant, absolutely!  We’re already seeing a big shift toward fluidity and self-expression over traditional gender norms, and I love that there are more and more brands moving in this direction. Your brand is a huge inspiration to me, and I hope that the evolution continues.

5. In Paris, we talked about the two big “F”s being Fashion & Food - that's what we spend our money on - What is your favourite food of all time and why?

Warak enab, an artfully presented savoury dish of rice and meat-filled rolled grape leaves, is a staple at Palestinian gatherings. A dish complex in its preparation, spices and layering, yet humble and honest in its intention. It’s a dish that brings people together and carries a deep sense of identity, heritage and community.

Thank you, Lana, for taking the time to share!
We appreciate and love working with you!
Go take a look at DECEMBER THIEVES here!

much love,
-Mark