Debbie Wingham, couturier to the stars, who launched the world’s most expensive Black Diamond Dress last year has chosen her favourite city and hotel to launch the world’s most expensive Red Diamond Abaya.

Between March 21st and March 25th, Debbie returned to Raffles Dubai to unveil this bejeweled masterpiece valued at a staggering £11.7 million (AED65.1 million) and making it notably the most expensive garment in the world.

Centre stage of the Abaya sits the world’s most expensive and rarest diamond; the red diamond.  One in every one hundred million diamonds is a natural red colour, making it the rarest diamond in the world. The Abaya will also feature black diamonds - Debbie’s signature stones, along with white diamonds and of course the rare red diamond which will be the Pièce de résistance. The Abaya boasts over 200,000 hand stitched in 14 carat white gold thread, the other details found on the embellishment include an intricate layering detail and delicate beading detail with a raised flower effect all crafted by hand.

This masterpiece was born out of Debbie’s love and affinity with Dubai and her plans to make it her second home. The world’s most expensive Red Diamond Abaya has inspired a whole collection of beautiful and modern Abayas using Debbie’s signature flair and couture techniques while respecting the traditional dress and culture that she herself admires.

Debbie’s red diamond collection was showcased in Raffles’ stunning Penthouse Suite with private viewings. 

In addition, Raffles Salon has unveiled the 2013 Spring Summer Collection of Dubai's only Fashion Afternoon Tea. An edible 'bake' on the trends of the season, this tea will also see replicas from Debbie's red diamond range during the week of the showcase- stylishly mastered by Raffles exceptional pastry team.  



About Debbie Wingham: Yorkshire-born designer Debbie Wingham made her first foray into fashion with a small boutique in Hoxton, followed by an uber-chic showroom on the King’s Road just a year later. Causing a stir amongst the stars, Debbie’s dresses became synonymous for their fluid, yet fitted feel and were often spotted sashaying down the revered red carpet. “Nostalgic memories of when you would raid your mother’s wardrobe and parade around in anything that embodied the princess feeling, the feeling that you don't want to take it off and you love walking back and forth just to appreciate the dresses dynamism.” – Debbie Wingham

 
About Raffles Hotels & Resorts:  Raffles Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning, luxury international hotel company with a history dating back to 1887 with the opening of Raffles Hotel, Singapore.  The portfolio currently comprises nine luxurious properties, from secluded resorts to chic hotels in key locations around the world:  in Singapore, Cambodia, China, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles and Paris, each one is an oasis of calm and charm.  The company is embarking on a new phase of expansion, with openings in Istanbul, the Maldives, Indonesia, the Philippines and China scheduled over the next two years.  With a compelling mix of cultures and styles, every hotel in the Raffles family has its own individual personality, with its own story to tell and its own sense of place.   However, each one is proud to draw on the timeless essence of Raffles - to deliver thoughtful, personal and discreet service to well-travelled guests.  www.raffles.com