Coral's tribute to Dubai

These have been designed by Francois Desroches, Creative Director, MPJ - Marketing Pro-junction and will henceforth be worn by staff across all properties managed by Coral Hotels & Resorts.

Francois distinguishes himself with his unconventional use of pattern, fabric and shape. His creativity is of such a fine caliber that it has earned him a place among Dubai's most loved designers. But it is his most outrageous designs for which he is best known. And now he has come up with an absolutely spectacular range of uniforms titled Notorious that's exclusively designed for Coral Hotels & Resorts.

Notorious is a line inspired by Dubai and its multi-faceted palette. Francois has absorbed Dubai in a unique way.

He says:

"Notorious is my tribute to Dubai - a city that's always on the go. It is a city that is young, trendy and vibrant, and has given birth to some of the most amazing businesses. Coral Hotels & Resorts is one of them. Rarely does one hear of a chain of hotels becoming a hub of art and culture. Coral Hotels brings together local and international artists by providing them a platform to showcase their creativity. It is a great endeavour and takes a huge effort. Through the Notorious Collection I wish to highlight Coral's amazing contribution in promoting art and artists and at the same time salute Dubai for its exceptional spirit - that makes you a winner."

Notorious is divided into three lines: Majestic for 5-star plus hotels; City Chic for 4-star hotels and Fantasy for resorts.

Hina Bakht, Vice President, MPJ, said, 'Francois is a showman. He not only creates dresses but creates spectacles. Notorious is an incredible collection that makes a strong statement. It is a kaleidoscope of colours studded with exquisite details. And yet, a practical elegance runs through the entire collection.'

The Majestic Line:

Francois' fascination with extravagance comes alive in the majestic range. Each design is a piece of art carefully rendered in luxurious fabrics. Mixing ethnic elegance with cultural overtones, the designer has created absolutely magnificent coats and jackets.

Sumptuous, yet easy to wear, Majestic is an exquisite line in a cameo of muted colours.

The City Chic Line:

City Chic is a gorgeous combination of modern practicality and cheerful colours. Impeccably tailored slick jackets paired with black skirts / trousers convey a sense of effortless sophistication. The fabrics are highly durable and easy to maintain. Simply put, it is all about contemporary, urban chic.

The Fantasy Line:

Fantasy is a romantic range for resorts with beautiful floral prints, dramatic blouses and breezy cuts. The fabrics are sensuously light and wearable giving an extremely young and relaxed look. It undoubtedly creates an immediate fantasy - beyond seams, beyond tired expression of silhouette and colours.

Spontaneity and joy are the hallmarks of The Notorious Collection. Francois has blended craft and fantasy to create sensuous and stimulating designs.

He said, "In my opinion uniforms need not be boring. Often uniforms are made to be plain and dull in the name of practicality. Generally people misinterpret professional as sombre. However, I would like to say that a colourful attire in no way makes you look less serious or is in any way less functional. Sixty per cent of the workforce in most dynamic cities like Dubai wears uniforms. These have got to be exciting and fun. Something that one should look forward to wearing everyday. Notorious is a refreshing change."