Tarek Abou Samra

Experienced and visionary fashion designer with10+ years of expertise in the luxury industry. Transformed concepts into reality through 12+ fashion collections and 16+ photo shoots. Skilled in market research, trend forecasting, and delivering exceptional designs. Committed to developing innovative concepts with wide customer appeal while empowering sustainability and environmentally conscious fashion. Adept at building and leading teams, making sound decisions, and critical thinking. Possesses extensive knowledge of fashion landscape, construction techniques, and timeline management. Achievements include driving business growth with a 35% sales increase and expanding the client base by 27% within a 14-month period.

ATELIER FORGER – Miami, Florida                                              MAY 2020 TO PRESENT 

A Sustainable, Luxury, Ready To Wear Fashion Brand

CREATIVE DIRECTOR 

Initiated company operations, including strategic planning, market research, and eco-friendly manufacturing. Led fashion design and production, enhancing brand visibility and market standing for a 20% growth compared to 2021. Expanded distribution strategy by 17%. Showcased 2nd collection at Arab Fashion Week in Dubai (Oct. 2022)

• Successfully established operations. Designed 2 women's collections recognized by Elle Arabia and Harper’s Bazaar editorial teams for their modern style and sustainable practices, resulting in a 35% increase in sales.

• Led creative direction and managed the entire product design process, from market research, and mood board to sketching and delivering the end product, in alignment with the brand's aesthetic.

• Played a key role in defining the company's vision and mission while driving brand aesthetics, market positioning, and graphic identity.

• Worked closely with technical teams to create tech packs and sampling prototypes. Facilitated team meetings for a project to increase revenue for e-commerce clients.

• Spoke at industry events as the visual spokesperson for the brand to improve brand awareness. 

SOLANGE ABOU ZAHRA – Beirut, Lebanon               JUNE 2015 TO SEPTEMBER 2019

A Couture Brand witches both Sophisticated and practical

FASHION DESIGNER & ART DIRECTOR

Managed the entire design process, vendors, and collaborator relationships, and ensured seamless execution of projects. Aligned creative vision with business objectives while fostering successful milestones.

• Developed and executed a comprehensive strategic plan, effectively guiding the company toward its goals and objectives. Saved over 18% in annual expenses by negotiating with vendors on availability, product specification, distribution, delivery deadline, and price.

• Directed impactful photoshoots and advertising campaigns. Coordinated model and talent work instructing on wardrobe changes, hair & make-up. Substantially boosted sales and enhanced brand visibility.

• Orchestrated end-to-end fashion design operations, successfully creating and delivering 8+ full collections that met strong market demand and achieved impressive sales figures.

• Cultivated enduring and valuable partnerships with vendors and key collaborators throughout product design and development.

• Raised revenue by 27% over 4 years. 

ABED MAHFOUZ – Beirut, Lebanon                  MARCH 2014 TO FEBRUARY 2015 

A Spirited Haute Couture Fashion House For Modern Women.

CHIEF DESIGNER 

Drove development of haute couture collections, execution, networking, and trend analysis. Motivated and led teams to create exquisite garments. Stayed ahead of industry trends through innovative thinking.

• Achieved a remarkable milestone as the youngest designer to spearhead design and tailoring departments. Developed and delivered haute couture collections showcased during Paris Fashion Week.

• Brought fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the forefront

• Consulted with 4 - 5 clients per day to discuss preferences, styles, and ideas.

• BA, Graphic Design, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria 2008 to 2012

• Fashion Design Diploma, Ready to wear, Model Center, Damascus, Syria 2004 to 2005

• Fashion Design Diploma, Haute Couture, Model Center, Damascus, Syria 2005 to 2006