Hi, Please introduce yourself to our readers:
Salam and hello! My name is Bellqees Wishah-Amer. I’m a 20-something accountant currently living in New York. I am the eldest of 5 children. Both of my parents were born in Palestine and the country holds an extremely dear place in my heart.
Tell us about your education:
I received a Master’s in Business from Fordham University in New York, NY.
What are some of your hobbies?
I love learning. I enjoy reading and respect the arts a great deal, so you can always find me listening to music or trying to find someone to visit a museum with me.
What sparked your interest in fashion? Who would you say is your number one fashion inspiration?
Like most girls, I’ve always had an interest in fashion, shopping and dressing up. I remember, even at a young age, having input in what I wore. My earliest memory would be arguing with my mom over how the flower girl dress I was wearing to my uncle’s wedding should look. I was 5 then. My number one fashion inspiration is my mom, she is the epitome of class and no-one can pull off a pantsuit the way she does!
What are some of your current fashion obsessions?
Currently, I’m struggling to keep up with this cold winter! My current obsessions are my touchscreen gloves, long camelcoloured wool coat and my kuffiyeh.
Name your Top 3 favourite bands.
I don’t chase brands and labels. I prefer the unique design of an independent label rather than buying basic items with popular names attached to them.
Coffee or Tea?
I don’t drink coffee at all. I prefer tea with fresh mint leaves and good conversation any day.
What do you think of eco-fashion?
Eco-fashion is the future and I sincerely hope that the fashion industry invests more of its time and resources in developing ways to create apparel that is responsibly sourced and ethically made. Nothing we wear will ever be cute enough to have to hurt the environment for it.
Your favourite food?
This one is tricky, there are so many choices! I would have to say that warek dawali (stuffed grape leaves) is my favourite because I can appreciate hard work. The process of finding the right leaves, stuffing and rolling them is a tedious process. So when they are finally done, I savor each little piece with joy.
Your favourite holiday destination?
I enjoy travelling and exploring new places. I’ve discovered little treasures and made beautiful memories in every country I’ve visited. I fell in love with the city of Barcelona and am anticipating my return. But my all-time favourite holiday destination will always be Palestine. The air is fresher, the tea is sweeter, my home is warmer and the laughs are greater. My heart yearns for it every day we’re not together.
When you can't think of anything to wear, what's your go-to outfit?
My go-to outfit is a pair of jeans, long white tee and sweatshirt. I’m happy athleisure has made its way to the fashion scene and I can easily find trendy pieces to incorporate into everyday looks while still being comfortable.
Who are your style icons?
Najwa Karam always looks amazing. I would love to have her evening gown collection. Queen Rania of Jordan is a class act; her looks are always sophisticated and well polished. 090
MARCH 2017