Bahraini designers showcase Ramadan collection
Manama, July 10, 2014
Bahraini fashion designers are showcasing their skills with a special Ramadan collection in the kingdom.
Noora Abdulghani and Khatoon Taher have each put together collections based on the jalabiya, a traditional gown worn by Arab women, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.
A special Eid collection is also being launched today by the boutique stocking their designs, which are proving popular among non-Bahraini customers.
"We always have special merchandise to cater to the different seasons in Bahrain," said Seventh Heaven managing director Faisal Ismaeel, whose boutique in Al A'ali Shopping Complex is selling their creations.
"The difference is that this time around we wanted to support a couple of Bahraini talents and display their merchandise, along with those which we bring from abroad.
"Talents have improved here, but Bahrain lacks designers or colleagues supporting each other and standing hand in hand.
"We don't have that spirit, which is sad, so I'm trying to encourage other pioneers and entrepreneurs."
Each item produced by the Bahraini designers is exclusive and handmade.
Ismaeel said there had been a positive response so far, particularly among shoppers from other Gulf countries.
"The sales have been good, they have exceeded expectations - but not to Bahraini customers," he said.
"We monitor who buys what stock and the Bahraini designers aren't being purchased by Bahrain customers, they're being bought by other Gulf nationals.
"The local public don't believe in local talent.
"If you go to Kuwait, a Kuwaiti designer will get prioritised over Dolce & Gabbana.
"That's how strong the spirit is there and we want to have that here."
Abdulghani is an evening wear specialist who revealed this was her first time designing jalabiyas.
"I hadn't planned on it, but coming up to Ramadan a lot of my customers asked me about jalabiyas," the 29-year-old said.
"Then I found out that Seventh Heaven was doing the line when they got in touch.
"Initially I wasn't prepared, but I was excited and agreed to it.
"The first batch of 50 sold out quickly and the final pieces will be coming in the next couple of weeks."
She added she had been encouraged by positive feedback from customers and was benefiting from the regional exposure.
"I've been seeing my work all over Instagram with people wearing it out and at ghabgas," she said.
"That's really nice because normally my gowns are worn just once on a special occasion or a wedding, so these are more wearable and can be dressed up or down.
"I choose the fabric and pattern to that end.
"Before most of my creations were on a local scale, but now I have regional exposure.
"I see my work all over the Gulf and they are asking for more." - TradeArabia News Service
