The Middle East’s definitive fashion platform is growing more by the day, and while there are a plethora of designers to choose from, today we’re highlighting two specific brands that have been on our radar and at the helm of the fashion scene in the Kingdom.
Boasting of bold colors and designs, holding humanitarian causes at the wheel, and run by women, here are two Saudi Arabian fashion brands you should check out ASAP.
Sara Altwaim
Born to a family of art lovers, Sara Altwaim developed a love for everything artistic. While she took up writing poetry as a hobby, fashion design became her life’s passion, and she subsequently launched her namesake label. After attending the College of Arts and Design in Jeddah, she went on to teach art and took the time to develop her own unique style in fashion. She created her first collection, Sakura, which was inspired by the Japanese blossom, in 2015. For her latest collection, Salam, Altwaim, who is known for her use of dense beading and embroidery, reflects her ideas of wishing peace for the entire world.
Nasiba Hafiz
London School of Fashion graduate Nasiba Hafiz launched her eponymous brand in 2012. She has never hesitated when it comes to experimenting and thinking outside the box, so the woman who wears her creations must also be ready to take risks. While based in Jeddah, Hafiz has had pop-up fashion displays in cities like Tokyo, Los Angeles and London, plus she has had a number of collaborations with various designers throughout the years. Her colourful, bold and playful prints and motifs, relaxed silhouettes and light fabrics are perfect for summer dressing. For help in creating those avant-garde looks, she turns to women from non-profit centre Nesma Embroidery, assisting to empower those with special needs.
