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Oscar Kraye emerged from Beirut with a restless curiosity and a keen eye for detail, turning childhood experiments with fabric into a distinctive aesthetic that bridges heritage and modernity. Now based in Dubai, he runs his eponymous atelier, crafting pieces where leather meets organza, sequins catch the light, and every silhouette tells a story. From the streets of Gemmayze to the mountains of Arz, his work carries the textures, moods, and rhythms of the worlds that shaped him. ICON sat down with Oscar to talk all things iconic.
How did growing up in Beirut shape your aesthetic and creative vision?
Growing up in Beirut, surrounded by a family with a deep love for fashion and creativity, had a profound influence on me from a young age. Beirut itself carries a rich heritage of style, culture, and artistic expression. Being immersed in that environment naturally shaped my aesthetic and creative vision.
Beirut shaped your early life, and Dubai shaped your career. How do these cities still influence how you see the world today?
Beirut is my soul. The person I am today, my values, my character, my creative vision, all come from there. Growing up surrounded by its culture, history, and energy shaped my foundation, and even though I left, I left with a purpose and a goal. Wherever I go, I carry Beirut with me in everything I represent.
Dubai became the next chapter and my second home. I’m deeply grateful for everything it has given me, especially at such a young age. It shaped me in ways I never expected, giving me the stability and space to focus entirely on my growth. Watching a city build itself from scratch into one of the world’s leaders in achievement inspires me daily. I truly believe Dubai is the future.
What does “home” mean to you now, and how does it inspire you creatively?
Home, for me, is defined by the people I’m surrounded by, the ones I spend my time with and share my life with. Of course, we all have a deep love for our roots and our families, but sometimes life’s circumstances lead us to leave home in pursuit of something better. Still, I believe home is something you carry within you; it’s wherever I go, as long as I’m with the people who inspire and ground me.
Any travel tips?
Always travel light; you can always do laundry along the way. And never forget to pack a small medical kit; it’s a lifesaver if you get sick or run down.
An underrated city?
Definitely Bali. I feel like people don’t talk enough about how truly beautiful and special it is.
Is there a specific street, neighbourhood, or landmark in either city that feels iconic to you personally?
Yes, Gemmayze, in the heart of Beirut. It has such a unique charm, with its beautiful energy, historic streets, and warm, creative people. Every time I’m there, it feels alive and inspiring.
If you ever go to Lebanon, you must visit ____?
Oh, there are so many places! Hamra Street for its energy, Gemmayze for its charm, the South for its stunning coastline, Arz for the iconic cedar trees, Faqra for its beautiful mountain views, and Baalbek for its incredible ancient ruins.
Which films, directors, or musical moments have shaped your visual or sartorial identity?
Oh, I love movies and documentaries, but I especially love Wes Anderson. His artistic and cinematic eye, his attention to detail, and the way he creates entire worlds through colour and symmetry have deeply influenced my own visual and sartorial identity.
What designers or brands do you feel a personal connection with?
I have so many, but I feel a special connection with Jean Paul Gaultier, Balenciaga, Thierry Mugler, and Elsa Schiaparelli, especially their work from the 1980s. That era’s bold silhouettes, fearless creativity, and sense of drama continue to inspire me today.
How do you approach curating your wardrobe or selecting pieces?
If you know me, you know I love standing out in fashion and expressing myself through what I wear. But recently, I’ve been focusing on building my wardrobe with timeless, high-quality pieces that I can style in endless ways. Versatile basics are essential; the more you have, the more freedom you have to create looks that feel fresh and personal every time.
Are there particular textures, colours, or silhouettes that feel like “you” when dressing?
I love colours. A friend once told me that whatever I wear, especially when it comes to colour, reflects my mood and the energy I give off. That’s why I’m always drawn to happy, uplifting tones. In terms of silhouettes, I love the confidence of a fitted look but also the effortless edge of something oversized. As for textures, I’m obsessed with organza, leather, silk, latex, and sheer fabrics; each brings its own attitude and story to an outfit.
A fashion trend you wish would fade?
Personally, I don’t believe in trends. Style should be timeless and personal.
A fashion trend you wish would come back?
Again, I don’t believe in trends. I think style is about what speaks to you, not what comes and goes.
Going from Haidar to Oscar, how did “Oscar” come about? Which one do you feel the closest to?
I love both names. Oscar feels like my alter ego, but I’m equally connected to both.
Who do you think is an ICON?
You.
Photography: Sahil Shettigar
Production: Imaginary Friends
Styling and Grooming: Oscar Kraye
Studio: Dahoul Studio
