Carla Diab, born on October 11, 1985, in Beirut, Lebanon, is a fashion icon who’s made waves from the Middle East to Beverly Hills. This Lebanese-American designer launched her label “Refining Designs” in 2010, blending Eastern opulence with Western sleekness.
Carla’s designs have graced red carpets, catching the eye of stars like Rihanna. She’s appeared on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” and “Project Runway,” expanding her influence beyond fashion.
Married to Tony Abou Jaoudeh with a daughter named Lea, Carla balances her $5 million empire with philanthropy and family life.
Biography
| Aspect | Details |
| Full Name | Carla Diab |
| Birth Date | October 11, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Beirut, Lebanon |
| Nationality | Lebanese-American |
| Profession | Fashion Designer, TV Personality |
| Education | Cleveland State University, Lebanese American University |
| Fashion Label | Refining Designs (launched 2010) |
| Design Style | Blend of Middle Eastern opulence and Western sleek lines |
| Notable Achievement | Dressed Rihanna for Grammy Awards |
| TV Appearances | “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”, “Project Runway” |
| Spouse | Tony Abou Jaoudeh (married 2020) |
| Children | Daughter Lea (born 2022) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 million (as of 2024) |
| Philanthropy | Diab Design Scholarship, sustainability advocate |
| Current Residence | Beverly Hills, California |
Early Life and Background
Born on October 11, 1985, in Beirut, Lebanon, Carla Diab’s childhood was steeped in the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern culture.
The daughter of James and Elizabeth Diab, Carla grew up in a home where creativity was nurtured and ambition encouraged.
The bustling markets of Beirut, with their colorful fabrics and intricate designs, served as an early playground for her imagination.
Lebanon’s unique position as a cultural crossroads deeply influenced Carla’s aesthetic sensibilities.
The blend of Eastern and Western influences in Beirut’s fashion scene planted the seeds for what would become her signature style.
Her parents, recognizing their daughter’s keen eye for beauty, supported her early forays into design, often finding Carla sketching outfits or repurposing old clothes into new creations.
Education: Laying the Foundation for Success
Carla’s formal education began in Beirut, where she attended local schools known for their rigorous academic programs.
It was her move to the United States in the early 2000s that truly set her on the path to fashion stardom. Settling in Rocky River, Ohio, Carla faced the challenges of adapting to a new culture while pursuing her passion.
Her determination led her to Cleveland State University, where she majored in Fashion Design. The curriculum exposed her to Western fashion traditions while allowing her to incorporate her Lebanese heritage into her work.
This unique blend caught the eye of her professors, who encouraged Carla to push the boundaries of conventional design.
During her college years, Carla also took courses at the Lebanese American University, maintaining ties with her home country and enriching her global perspective on fashion.
This dual education in American and Lebanese institutions gave her a competitive edge, allowing her to create designs that resonated with diverse audiences.
Career: Climbing the Fashion Ladder
Carla’s ascent in the fashion world was meteoric, yet grounded in hard work and relentless dedication.
After graduating, she moved to New York City, the epicenter of American fashion. Starting as an intern at a small boutique design house, Carla quickly made a name for herself with her innovative designs and tireless work ethic.
Fashion Design: Carla’s Unique Aesthetic
In 2010, Carla launched her first collection under the label “Refining Designs.” The collection was a bold statement, blending the opulence of Middle Eastern textiles with the sleek lines of Western couture. Fashion critics took notice, praising her ability to bridge cultures through clothing.
Carla’s signature style evolved to include:
- Intricate beadwork inspired by traditional Lebanese craftsmanship
- Modern silhouettes that flatter diverse body types
- A vibrant color palette that pays homage to the Mediterranean landscape
Her designs caught the eye of celebrities, and soon, Carla was dressing A-listers for major red carpet events.
A watershed moment came when international pop star Rihanna wore one of Carla’s gowns to the Grammy Awards, catapulting the designer into the global spotlight.
Television Appearances: From Runway to Screen
Carla’s charisma and expertise made her a natural fit for television. Her first major TV appearance was as a guest judge on “Project Runway,” where her insightful critiques and warm personality endeared her to viewers.
This led to recurring roles on fashion-focused shows and eventually to a spot on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.“
While some questioned her decision to join a reality show, Carla saw it as an opportunity to showcase her brand and inspire other immigrant entrepreneurs.
Her appearances on the show not only boosted her public profile but also gave viewers a glimpse into the life of a working fashion designer.
Brand Endorsements: The Face of Luxury
As Carla’s star rose, luxury brands clamored to work with her. She became the face of several high-end cosmetic and fashion lines, carefully choosing partnerships that aligned with her values and aesthetic.
One notable collaboration was with a Lebanese jewelry designer, bringing attention to artisans from her home country.
Carla’s approach to endorsements is strategic. She views each partnership as an opportunity to expand her brand’s reach while maintaining its integrity.
This discerning approach has made her a sought-after ambassador for brands looking to connect with a sophisticated, global audience.
Personal Life: Behind the Glitz and Glamour
Despite her high-profile career, Carla Diab has managed to maintain a semblance of privacy in her personal life.
She’s known for being guarded about her relationships, preferring to keep the focus on her work and philanthropic efforts.
Family: The Support System
Carla’s family remains a cornerstone of her life. Her parents, James and Elizabeth Diab, are often seen supporting her at fashion shows and charity events.
She also has a close relationship with her sister, Kate, who helps manage some aspects of Carla’s business empire.
In 2020, Carla married Tony Abou Jaoudeh in a lavish ceremony that blended Lebanese traditions with Hollywood glamour. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Lea, in 2022.
Carla has been open about the challenges of balancing motherhood with her demanding career, often using her platform to discuss the need for better support systems for working mothers in the fashion industry.
Lifestyle: A Day in the Life of Carla Diab
Carla’s life in Beverly Hills is a far cry from her early days in Beirut, but she strives to maintain a connection to her roots.
A typical day for Carla might include:
- Early morning yoga or Pilates to center herself
- Meetings with her design team to review upcoming collections
- Lunch at a trendy Beverly Hills eatery, often spotted with fellow designers or celebrities
- Afternoon fittings with clients or photo shoots for her latest line
- Evening events, from charity galas to fashion shows
Despite her busy schedule, Carla makes time for family dinners and weekend trips to her beach house in Malibu.
She’s also known to fly to Beirut several times a year, drawing inspiration from the city’s ever-evolving street style and visiting family.
Net Worth and Earnings: The Business of Being Carla Diab
Carla Diab’s rise in the fashion world has been accompanied by significant financial success.
As of 2024, her estimated net worth stands at an impressive $5 million, a testament to her savvy business acumen and the global appeal of her brand.
Income Streams: Diversifying the Portfolio
Carla’s income comes from various sources, showcasing her ability to leverage her brand across multiple platforms:
| Income Source | Estimated Annual Earnings |
| Fashion Line | $1 million |
| TV Appearances | $500,000 |
| Endorsements | $750,000 |
| Speaking Engagements | $250,000 |
These figures are conservative estimates, as Carla’s earnings can fluctuate based on the success of her seasonal collections and the deals she secures each year.
Investments: Planning for the Future
Carla’s financial portfolio extends beyond her fashion empire. She’s made strategic investments in real estate, including a $4 million mansion in Beverly Hills and properties in Lebanon.
Her most extravagant purchase to date is a $7 million yacht, which she uses for both personal enjoyment and client entertainment.
In recent years, Carla has also ventured into tech investments, backing several fashion-tech startups that aim to revolutionize the industry.
This forward-thinking approach ensures that she remains at the cutting edge of fashion, both creatively and technologically.
Philanthropy: Giving Back in Style
Despite her luxurious lifestyle, Carla Diab has never forgotten her roots or the struggles she faced as an immigrant.
Her philanthropic efforts focus on education and empowerment, particularly for young women in Lebanon and the United States.
In 2018, Carla established the Diab Design Scholarship, which provides financial support to aspiring fashion designers from underprivileged backgrounds.
The scholarship covers tuition at leading fashion schools and includes mentorship opportunities with Carla and her team.
Carla is also a vocal advocate for sustainability in fashion. She’s partnered with environmental organizations to promote eco-friendly practices in the industry, often using her collections to showcase innovative, sustainable materials.
How Does Carla’s Success Inspire Us?
Carla Diab’s journey from Beirut to Beverly Hills is more than just a rags-to-riches story; it’s a masterclass in perseverance, cultural pride, and the power of a unique vision.
Overcoming Challenges
Carla’s path was far from smooth. She faced numerous obstacles, including:
- Language barriers upon moving to the United States
- Cultural differences in the American fashion industry
- Skepticism about her Middle Eastern-inspired designs in a Western market
Yet, she turned these challenges into strengths, using her unique perspective to stand out in a crowded field.
Carla often speaks about the importance of embracing one’s background, seeing it as a source of inspiration rather than a limitation.
Pursuing Passion with Dedication
Carla’s work ethic is legendary in the fashion world. She’s known for her hands-on approach, often working late into the night on designs and personally overseeing production.
This dedication has earned her the respect of industry veterans and inspired a new generation of designers.
Her advice to aspiring fashion designers is simple yet powerful: “Never stop learning, and always stay true to your vision. Fashion is art, but it’s also a business. Master both.”
Empowering Others: Carla as a Role Model
Through her success, Carla has become a role model for young women, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds.
She regularly speaks at universities and industry events, sharing her experiences and encouraging others to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Carla’s mentorship program, launched in 2021, pairs emerging designers with established names in the industry.
This initiative has already helped launch several promising careers, with Carla taking a personal interest in each mentee’s progress.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
One of the most admirable aspects of Carla’s success is her ability to maintain a balance between her thriving career and her personal life.
She’s open about the challenges of this balance, particularly since becoming a mother.
Carla advocates for better support systems in the fashion industry for working parents. She’s implemented family-friendly policies in her own company, including flexible working hours and on-site childcare facilities, setting a new standard for the industry.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Legacy of Carla Diab
As we look to the future, it’s clear that Carla Diab’s influence on the fashion world is far from over. With upcoming projects including a sustainable swimwear line and collaborations with major fashion houses in Paris and Milan, Carla continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in fashion.
Her journey from the bustling streets of Beirut to the glamorous world of Beverly Hills is a testament to the power of cultural fusion, unwavering determination, and the ability to turn challenges into opportunities.
Carla Diab isn’t just designing clothes; she’s crafting a legacy that bridges cultures and inspires generations.
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQ’s)
How much is Carla Diab’s family worth?
Carla Diab’s family net worth is not publicly detailed, but Carla herself has an estimated net worth of around $5 million.
How much is Diab worth?
Carla Diab is worth approximately $5 million, earned from her fashion design business, television appearances, and brand endorsements.
Who is the richest singer in Egypt?
Amr Diab is considered the richest singer in Egypt, with a net worth estimated to be in the tens of millions of dollars.
Who is the CEO of Diab?
There is no specific information on a “Diab” company; Carla Diab is the founder and owner of her fashion line.
How much does Amr Diab make per concert?
Amr Diab reportedly earns between $100,000 to $200,000 per concert, depending on the venue and event size.
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