Karen Wazen: The Digital Queen of Middle Eastern Fashion
In an era where social media has redefined influence, Karen Wazen Bakhazi stands out as one of the Middle East’s most celebrated digital personalities. A fashion icon, entrepreneur, and mother of three, Karen has built a multifaceted empire that bridges style, lifestyle, and business—making her not only an influencer but a force to be reckoned with.
Early Life and Background
Karen Wazen was born on April 10, 1986, in the United Kingdom and raised in Beirut, Lebanon. Growing up in a Lebanese household with a strong cultural heritage, she developed a deep appreciation for fashion and self-expression. Her academic journey led her to the American University of Beirut, where she studied Business Administration—laying the groundwork for her future entrepreneurial ventures.
After university, she moved to Dubai, which would eventually become both her home and the base of her booming brand. Her multicultural background and upbringing in different parts of the world played a pivotal role in shaping her distinctive aesthetic and worldview.
Rise to Fame
Karen Wazen began her digital career in 2016 when she launched her personal fashion and lifestyle blog, Karen’s Choice. At the time, fashion blogging in the Middle East was still in its early stages, and she quickly distinguished herself through her refined style, candid personality, and a unique blend of Western and Middle Eastern sensibilities.
Through her blog and social media platforms, she began documenting her personal style, motherhood journey, and everyday life in Dubai. Audiences across the globe connected with her authenticity—something that remains central to her brand today. Her follower count exploded across Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, establishing her as one of the region’s most powerful digital voices.
Today, Karen has millions of followers on Instagram alone and has worked with some of the biggest names in luxury fashion and beauty, including Dior, Prada, Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, and Cartier.
Entrepreneurial Journey: Karen Wazen Eyewear
In December 2018, Karen took a bold step from influencer to entrepreneur with the launch of her eyewear brand, Karen Wazen Eyewear. Designed with a chic, bold, and modern aesthetic, the brand quickly gained global attention. It reflected Karen’s personal style—sophisticated, edgy, and wearable—and offered unique, high-quality frames that appealed to both fashionistas and everyday wearers.
The brand has since grown significantly, becoming available at prestigious retailers like Net-A-Porter, Bloomingdale’s, and Moda Operandi, and worn by celebrities such as Sofia Richie, Olivia Culpo, and Emily Ratajkowski. The success of the eyewear line cemented Karen’s status not just as a style icon, but as a savvy businesswoman who could translate her digital influence into tangible success.
Style and Influence
Karen Wazen’s style is effortlessly glamorous, often combining modern silhouettes with timeless elegance. Whether she’s dressed in haute couture for Paris Fashion Week or sharing casual day-to-day looks, her fashion sense resonates with a wide audience. She plays with bold colors, textures, and accessories, never afraid to push the envelope while remaining authentic.
Her ability to merge fashion with lifestyle content has also made her an ambassador for global campaigns. In 2022, she was named a Middle East ambassador for Dior Beauty, further highlighting her growing impact on the international stage. She also has longstanding relationships with makeup and skincare giants like Estee Lauder and Lancome.
Her influence goes beyond clothing and cosmetics—she’s a lifestyle tastemaker who inspires millions to express themselves, embrace motherhood, and balance personal life with professional ambition.
Motherhood and Personal Life
Karen is married to Elias Bakhazi, a businessman who often appears in her content, and together they have three children—twin girls and a son. Motherhood is a major theme in her online presence, and she’s always been candid about the challenges and joys that come with it.
In a digital landscape where perfection is often portrayed, Karen chooses to be real. She openly discusses postpartum depression, parenting struggles, and her efforts to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This transparency is one of the many reasons her followers find her relatable and inspiring.
Despite her busy career, Karen prioritizes family, and she frequently shares heartwarming glimpses into her home life, holidays, and everyday routines.
Mental Health Advocacy
Karen has been vocal about her personal journey with mental health. She has opened up about her battles with anxiety, particularly after the birth of her twins. Through her platform, she encourages others to talk openly about their struggles, helping destigmatize mental health issues in the Middle East—where such conversations are still sometimes taboo.
Her advocacy has resonated deeply, especially with young women navigating similar challenges. By showing vulnerability and resilience, Karen not only empowers her followers but helps shift cultural perceptions surrounding mental well-being.
Global Recognition
Karen Wazen’s reach now extends far beyond the Middle East. She’s been featured in international publications such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and Grazia, and often attends major fashion weeks in Paris, Milan, London, and New York.
She was also recognized in Forbes Middle East’s list of the Top 10 Most Influential Women in the Middle East, solidifying her role as a key figure in the global influencer space.
Her ability to evolve with trends while staying true to herself has made her a role model not only for aspiring influencers but for women seeking to make their mark in any industry.
Legacy and Future Plans
As Karen Wazen continues to grow her brand, the future looks bright. She has hinted at plans to expand her business beyond eyewear, and fans speculate that beauty, fashion, or even wellness ventures could be next. Her journey is a blueprint for how passion, authenticity, and business acumen can turn an online persona into a global brand.
What makes Karen’s story especially compelling is that her success is rooted not in just aesthetics or style—but in honesty, dedication, and connection. Whether she’s front-row at a fashion show or at home in pajamas with her kids, Karen Wazen represents the modern Middle Eastern woman: empowered, graceful, and unstoppable.
Published: 25th August 2025
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