Leading the Way: 4 Middle Eastern Fashion Designers to Watch
The fashion landscape of the Middle East is being shaped by a dynamic and innovative group of designers who are making significant waves on the global stage. Here are four designers leading the way:
Ziyad Buainain
Launched in 2021 in London, Ziyad Buainain’s luxury label celebrates femininity through color and shapes, infused with drama inspired by his Saudi Arabian heritage. His designs, such as a bubble skirt printed with rocks from Saudi deserts or a jacket and skirt co-ord featuring a photograph of his great aunt, reflect his rich cultural background. Born in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia, Buainain’s global upbringing in cities like Tokyo, Milan, and New York has influenced his work, incorporating elements from various cultures. An Istituto Marangoni alumnus, Buainain emphasizes sustainability by using recycled and deadstock fabrics and working on a made-to-order basis to minimize waste. His pieces range from sophisticated long black dresses to bold, sheer trousers and hot pink bodysuits.
Zeid Hijazi
Palestinian designer Zeid Hijazi launched his label in April 2022 while still studying at Central Saint Martins. His debut collection, "Kalt," merges his Palestinian heritage with futuristic silhouettes, creating a "politely dystopian" aesthetic with Arab influences. His couture-esque jackets with high power shoulders and skirts with intricately embroidered traditional motifs stand out. Hijazi, who won the Fashion Trust Arabia Debut Talent award, aims to give traditional Palestinian crafts a contemporary twist. Despite challenges and preconceived notions in fashion school, Hijazi's first collection was well-received. Now in his final year, he is excited to expand his brand globally.
Reem Atout
Egyptian-born designer Reem Atout, raised between Qatar and the UAE, founded her namesake label in Doha. Her fascination with Egyptian movies and embroidery from a young age led her to fashion. Her debut collection, "Teta Chic," which won the Cairo Design Award, was an homage to her grandmothers' jalabeyas, modernized with streetwear elements. Atout emphasizes sustainability, viewing clothing as an archive of stories and memories. She is currently working on her Spring 2024 collection and expanding her points of sale.
Fatma Mostafa
Egyptian jewelry designer Fatma Mostafa combines hand embroidery with 24ct gold-plated brass in her unique pieces. Her creations, like embroidered water lily earrings and landscape pendants, have garnered international attention, winning the 2022 Fashion Trust Arabia prize in jewelry. Mostafa's "Sheikh Jarrah" pin, worn by Bella Hadid, highlighted her commitment to supporting Palestine. With a background in fine arts, Mostafa's designs are inspired by Egyptian heritage, such as her Over the Mountain collection. Her intricate pieces, taking up to six days to create, are available on her website and Matchesfashion.com.