Few climates differ as much as Russia and the UAE, but fashion photographer Amer Mohamad calls both of them home, and has tailored his wardrobe to adhere to the respective sizzling and glacial temperatures of each.
When in Russia, layers of wildly patterned sweaters, hoodies and puffer jackets; when in Dubai, minimalist colours and linen fabrics and, naturally, shorts. But with the varied weather and constant travelling, what’s one piece of clothing one can always find in Mohamad’s closet? “I think I’m becoming addicted to New Balance sneakers. They’re perfect for shoots when I can be on my feet for six to eight hours straight.”
Growing up, whose style did you always try to emulate?
When I was growing up I was very inspired, not by a person, but by RnB culture, mixed with a little bit of punk. One outfit from back then I remember was this ‘Anarchy’ necklace that I’d wear with some crazy baggy pants. I actually returned to this style when I lived in Russia.
How has your look evolved in recent years?
In the last few years I’d say my look has been inspired by a combination of street style and punk. These days, I’m dressed more to match my mood. If I feel bright I’ll go full-on prints, but if I’m feeling neutral I’ll wear more subtle colours like black and grey, beige.
What are some of your favourite pieces in your wardrobe right now?
One of my favourite accessories is a cool bucket hat by Celine. It’s a brand I don’t really follow that much, but I like this piece. My favourite sweater, by far, is my Yeezy GAP hoodie Engineered by Balenciaga with a white dove print on the back. It’s kind of an iconic piece and I’ll have it forever. My absolute favourite shirt at the moment is one by Haculla, whose New York street graffiti vibe I adore. The shirt has a fire printed logo with the brand name and it goes from white to grey lines to black. The finishing is a bit rougher but it still feels great.
Talk us through each of your three chosen fits …
Fit 1
The first outfit is an example of how it can take me a little time to grow up and feel this style. It’s a black shirt with a warm sweater, which I usually mix with a long jacket or a coat. Perhaps it took me a while to get used to this look because it feels a little more sophisticated than what I normally wear. Perhaps that is just part of me growing up!
Fit 2
This second outfit is typically what I wear when I’m shooting. More or less it’s a shirt or t-shirt, but sometimes I put on more if the air-con in the studio is freezing! When I work I like to wear white, bright prints or primary coloured tops, nothing dark. I like the fit to be loose and light because I need to feel comfortable on set when I’m moving around.
Fit 3
This look is all about the long jacket with long sleeves. It is comfy and makes a quiet-luxury statement, especially when worn with a t-shirt underneath and a washed out pair of jeans. It’s just a really simple look and sometimes I might add a bag
