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Do you ever struggle picking out what to wear? Or do you sometimes have a hard time to finding the clothes that best suits your personality? Why not make your own clothes? This is what Ria Maria did. Just at the tender age of 16, this fierce young lady founded her own fashion line called Ria Maria, which targets teenage girls just like her.
“If you have an idea, don’t be scared to share it with the world. As a young generation we are the minds of the future. We know what is trendy and keep up with current matters. I wish the best of luck to anyone who takes the jump that I did, just remember that anything is possible if you put your mind to it!”
Briefly introduce yourself
My name is Ria Maria Roy, I am half Indian and half Lithuanian and I have a British citizenship. I’ve lived in Dubai my whole life, and love it here. I guess you could describe my personality as fun, loving, and bubbly.
What inspired you to start Ria Maria ?
Growing up in Dubai, I noticed that there were never many shops that focused on simple, young teen fashion. I saw a gap in the market, and decided to bring through the simple cuts and staple pieces that Ria Maria now offers for the teens of Dubai to enjoy.
Tell us a little bit about your fashion line
At Ria Maria we focus primarily on simple cuts, comfort, and fashionable items, which are easy for anyone to put together and create their own individual look. I felt like there were certain fashion staples that were missing in Dubai, some as simple as basic tees and tanks with comfy, soft and light materials perfect for the Dubai weather.
Have you always wanted to start your own fashion line?
Originally it had never crossed my mind to create a fashion-line, I just enjoyed fashion as a past-time or hobby. Being able to share my passion with the world and my tastes with others was an opportunity I couldn’t pass.
What was it like when you first launched Ria Maria?
When I first launched Ria Maria, we had a fashion show to start the brand off with a bang. It was emotional for me to see how all our hard work and effort had culminated into something I was so proud of and excited to be such a big part of.
As a young entrepreneur, what are some of the challenges you’ve faced in the fashion market?
Being young definitely gives me an advantage as I have first-hand experience in the fashion world for teens, being one myself. However, being a young person in a fashion hub like Dubai I still have a lot to learn, but with a great team I’m learning everyday and improving my skills to make Ria Maria the best it can be.
Who supported you when it came to the essential elements of starting a business such as funding, business structure and so on?
My family was my biggest influence and emotional support when it came to creating and setting up the brand, my dad helped me with the financial and technical side, as well as my mum giving me advice regarding the more creative side. Together we work as a close team and I am happy with the outcome of our efforts. I couldn’t have done it without them.
What fashion tips would you give to young women?
Simplicity is the key. I believe it says more than all those extravagant pieces you can find elsewhere that may overshadow your real personality. I think these overpower the individuality of each teenage girl, Ria Maria aims to bring out your true selves and natural beauty.
Are you planning to cater to the male gender on your fashion line in the future?
I’ve been asked this question in the past, and it is definitely something I have thought about. However, because Ria Maria is still young, only a year old at the moment, I am currently focused on only girls fashion, but you never know what the future holds!
Where do you see Ria Maria in the next 5 years?
Hopefully it will flourish, having multiple locations internationally, growing on social media and making more people aware of Ria Maria.
What advice can you give young people who want to be entrepreneurs?
If you have an idea, don’t be scared to share it with the world. As a young generation we are the minds of the future. We know what is trendy and keep up with current matters. I wish the best of luck to anyone who takes the jump that I did, just remember that anything is possible if you put your mind to it!
Who is your role model and why?
Zendaya, because she is someone who has simple fashion choices, but are still bold, out there and extremely stylish. Lots of young girls look up to her because of her morals and that is one of the reasons why I look up to her.
Apart from fashion, what are your other passions?
Dance and performing is definitely a large part of my life. I’ve had a passion for it since a very young age and have been a part of some amazing shows and productions. I also take a large interest in acting and theater, studying it in school and doing workshops outside of school.
Do have any pets?
Yes. I have a toy terrier called pepper, and a mixed Persian cat called Kiwi. Surprisingly they get along!
Favorite food?
I love seafood! I was probably a mermaid in a past life.
Favorite singer/band?
The 1975 is by far my favorite band, I went to their concert recently and it was the best concert I’ve ever been to. I’m obsessed with all their music!
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