Madiyah Al Sharqi grew up as a member of the royal, ruling family of Fujairah—a small state in the United Arab Emirates, where strip malls and mid-rise office buildings sprawl under the foothills of a rugged mountain range. A princess who studied in Paris, Al Sharqi has since stayed put in her hometown—and brought a little pizazz to it with her flamboyant, eponymous fashion house. Her glamorous, 1970s-inspired designs, which include paisley lace trousers and red patent leather dresses, have since made it to pop-ups in Dubai and New York and into wardrobes all over Hollywood.

Can you recall a pivotal moment in your upbringing that influenced your attitude to fashion?

My love for fashion started at a very early age and I mostly credit my mother for that. I remember her working closely with tailors to make bespoke pieces for her official engagements, and growing up around that made me realize early on that fashion and design was something I wanted to make a profession out of.

Which item of clothing in your wardrobe holds the most sentimental value?

My grandmother’s shawl from India—it’s made from beige cashmere embroidered with paisley on the edges. It always makes me feel like she’s still with me.

What were your references when designing the AW19 collection?

AW19 is a broader story about the 1970s. Some of the most iconic women who’ve made a name for themselves in fashion and music came out of that decade, so it’s been one of those periods I always find myself looking back to for inspiration. The collection has references to their adventurous attitude and bohemian style. They looked effortless but still very sophisticated, whether they were wearing a graphic printed blouse with a pair of flared leather pants during the day, or a sequined dress under a shearling coat for night.

Are you a nostalgic person?

Yes, I am. I’ve always been fond of looking to the past as a source of inspiration for my collections, from referencing Marie Antoinette in my earliest seasons to Jacqueline Kennedy for Spring Summer 2019. But it’s also very evident in a lot of my interests and hobbies—I appreciate reading classic novels, watching period plays and operas and traveling to places that hold a lot of rich history.

What was the last thing you made with your hands?

A no-bake chocolate biscuit cake. It’s one of my guilty pleasures and we’ve been making them since I was 12.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

I’ve always stood by the advice to stay true to yourself in everything you say and do, and you’ll find a way to fulfill something if it’s important to you.