Dubai, UAE
Founder of House of Glamo, a statement fashion label.
When Dr. Lamees Hamdan agreed to be on Oprah Winfrey’s Women Around the World segment she must never have anticipated the criticism that would ensue. There was anger at how Winfrey’s team had misstated how Dubai had free water and electricity; there was the fact Hamdan chose not to wear a sheila (the national headdress); and there was the anomoly of the interview being conducted via Skype, which is banned in the UAE. House of Glamo sprang to her defense with cheeky T-shirts that became an overnight hit: ‘Leave Lamees Alone: She Will Pay Our Bills.’ Since then House of Glamo has come out with T-shirts stating: ‘No oil, no cash? Who cares! Dubai loves you’ , ‘Lots of love please.. shut up!! Leave Dubai Alone..’ and the most recent ‘Help Heal Haiti’.
What inspires you in your day to day work?
I have to admit that it is always my surroundings that inspire me and the people that are part of my life.
Describe what it is you do.
I am a man of many hats, but for this interview, I am an artist who has started a design and fashion label based on situational issues.
Has the press criticed you for your T-shirts?
The press has enjoyed what I did and have supported me and Dr. Hamdan throughout this media ordeal and took my t-shirts and slogans with tongue and cheek just like my intention so thanks to them all.
Because it was all getting too serious?
Who wants to live a miserable life? I try to always make sure that everything around me is harmonious which is why I have fun and make sure to enjoy everything I do by thinking positively, there is no room for negativity in Mohammed’s world.
How did you cope with opposition?
I usually block it out it its personal or senseless, unless I see the point of why I should pay attention where sometimes the opposition would add value to what I am doing and inspire me more to maintain the momentum I am rushing in.
How do you think people see you and your products?
I really don’t know but I have not had any complaints from my global audience as yet.
What are you most proud of?
I am very proud of my family and upbringing and also very proud to pioneer in what I am doing and having people supporting my vision. I value it very much and I am indeed very grateful for everyone who stood by me, believed in me and supported me in every sense and manner.
Do you want to be fringe or mainstream?
I am very 50/50 so let us see what comes out of it in the future.
What are your plans for the future?
I live by the day and enjoy what is thrown my way. As a child I wanted to be the first UAE national astronaut to land on the moon and represent my country so if anyone is game then please get in touch and let me know where I should sign up.
How would you like House of Glamo to be known?
As a classical legacy.
