Start-up of the Week: Saudi fashion designer combines beauty and comfort

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Saja Al-Yousef's fashion show at Milan's Fashion Week. (Photo/Supplied)
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Updated 01 September 2020
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Start-up of the Week: Saudi fashion designer combines beauty and comfort

  • SAJAS Boutique specializes in luxury jewelry, fashion, and bag collections designed as per international standards

RIYADH: Bearing a lotus logo, Saudi designer and stylist Saja Al-Yousef’s creations are inspired by the qualities of the flower, which symbolizes beauty, health, comfort, love, and optimism

SAJAS Boutique specializes in luxury jewelry, fashion, and bag collections designed as per international standards. Al-Yousef’s designs are a fusion of classical and modern styles.

She opened her main outlet in Al-Ahsa in Saudi Arabia and soon became an icon in the Saudi fashion world.

Al-Yousef said she was not satisfied with the products available around her. This dissatisfaction motivated her to launch her line of products to cater to the needs of the people who thought like her.

“I started to invent my style and challenged myself until I reached where I am now,” she told Arab News.

In 2004, SAJAS Boutique entered the fashion world with its first collection. In 2009, Al-Yousef went to Australia to pursue her master’s degree. During her 4-year stay in Australia, she attended several fashion courses, and met several fashion designers and icons, which enlightened her and shaped her thoughts and ideas about fashion.

In 2013, Al-Yousef worked as a stylist backstage during Riyadh Fashion Days. She then attended many courses in fashion, jewelry and bag design in the UK, Qatar, France, and Australia.

She started working on her first line of jewelry in 2014. In 2017, she researched leather products and visited several countries to study the feasibility of entering into the industry. In February 2019, she started her leather bags industry in Italy.

Al-Yousef mentioned that she had participated in many international jewelry events in the Gulf countries such as Bahrain’s Jewelry Arabia and Qatar’s Jewelry International Exhibition.

In 2017, Al-Yousef participated in the Jewelry Salon held in Riyadh and another event in Dubai.

In August 2018, Al-Yousef presented her bags collection at Harvey Nichols, London, during London Fashion Week.

“I participated in several fashion shows in Bahrain and Riyadh. In February 2019, I exhibited my designs in a showroom in Italy. In December 2019, I was selected by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) to represent my brand in a showroom at Ritz-Carlton Riyadh,” said Al-Yousef.

Al-Yousef mentioned that her ambitions were boundless. “The sky is the limit,” she said.

She added that she hoped to share her vision and imagination with top brands and not confine herself to the local market.

“I think SAJAS products have gone through a lot of phases. Each product has a story and buyers are listeners who can understand the hard work that goes into each product,” she said.

 


Andria Tayeh tapped by French haircare brand Kerastase as first Mideast brand ambassador

Updated 15 February 2025
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Andria Tayeh tapped by French haircare brand Kerastase as first Mideast brand ambassador

DUBAI: Lebanese Jordanian actress Andria Tayeh is the first Middle Eastern ambassador for French hair care brand Kerastase.

The 23-year-old actress took to Instagram to share the announcement on Friday, just over a week after she was named Italian luxury fashion house Giorgio Armani’s new Middle East beauty ambassador.

“Growing up, hair was always a big part of my identity, and now, representing a brand that celebrates hair in all its beauty feels surreal. Here’s to confidence, strength and great hair,” Tayeh captioned her latest post.

In the clip, she is seen in an all-white studio answering questions about why she is the ideal Kerastase ambassador. Tayeh speaks in a mixture of English, Arabic and French as she jokingly flips her hair for the camera and details her dedication to maintaining healthy hair.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Andria Tayeh (@andria_tayeh)

Known for her roles in Austrian filmmaker Kurdwin Ayub’s “Mond” and Netflix’s hit series “Al-Rawabi School for Girls,” Tayeh also took to Instagram in early February to celebrate her collaboration with Armani, writing: “I am thrilled and honored to embark on this new journey with Armani beauty.

 “This marks a real milestone for me, as the brand embodies values I have always cherished: timeless elegance, dramatic simplicity, and women empowerment,” she added. “Armani beauty reveals one’s charismatic personality in the most subtle and natural way. It’s this pure simplicity that creates an impact, and this is exactly what I hope to bring to the Arab cinema world.” 

The actress is the latest in a long line of regional stars who have been tapped by international luxury brands for brand ambassadorship roles.

French Algerian model Loli Bahia was tapped to be one of Yves Saint Laurent Beauty’s brand ambassadors in 2023, starring in a debut campaign for the brand alongside Chinese model Tao Ye.

In 2024, Lebanese British actress Razane Jammal was named Dior Beauty’s brand ambassador after being announced as the Middle East’s brand ambassador for Dior in October 2022.

Meanwhile, Spanish jewelry brand PDPAOLA named Saudi influencer Jory Almaiman a brand ambassador in late 2024, and Nancy Ajram became Tiffany & Co.'s first Arab brand ambassador the year before that.

 


Celebrity-loved Indian designer Manish Malhotra explores a new ‘globalized aesthetic’ at Dubai showcase

Updated 15 February 2025
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Celebrity-loved Indian designer Manish Malhotra explores a new ‘globalized aesthetic’ at Dubai showcase

DUBAI: Manish Malhotra is a name synonymous with opulence, craftsmanship and Bollywood glamour. As one of India’s most celebrated designers, Malhotra revolutionized South Asian couture and has dressed some of the biggest stars in the international entertainment industry.

From Bollywood royalty, including crossover star Priyanka Chopra, to Hollywood’s Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Anniston, Malhotra’s clothes have been seen on A-listers globally.

The designer closed out the latest edition of Dubai Fashion Week in February. (Supplied)

While his influence has extended outside India for some time now, Malhotra took it one step further by establishing a permanent foothold in the UAE. After opening his first international flagship store in Dubai in December 2023, he closed out the latest edition of Dubai Fashion Week in February.

Marking his first-ever international runway presentation, the lineup was everything loyal clients would expect and more. Titled “The World Collection: Dubai,” the clothes were a celebration of traditional Indian craftsmanship reinterpreted with global appeal.

His signature sequins adorned most of the clothes. (Supplied)

“I wanted to explore a more globalized aesthetic while staying true to the essence of Indian couture,” Malhotra told Arab News. “The silhouettes are bold yet effortless, tailored yet free flowing, designed to complement the modern woman’s dynamic lifestyle.”

His signature sequins adorned most of the clothes, and a metallic silver gown and a rainbow-colored gown with a fabric draping the model’s head stood out. Elsewhere, suits dominated the runway – but not the corporate kinds – more couture-esque with fluid cuts making them comfortable to move around in. The suits came with exquisite pearl embellishments, a nod to the region’s pearl diving heritage. Others were sequinned from head to toe, an ode to maximalism. “Suits, for me, have always been a powerful expression of confidence and individuality. With this collection, I wanted to explore tailoring in a way that felt both bold and glamorous while staying true to the essence of craftsmanship,” he explained.

Malhotra’s kaftans and abaya-like silhouettes were elegant and versatile. (Supplied)

Handwoven brocade came in the form of structured, button-down blazers with matching voluminous midi skirts, further spotlighting the craftsmanship Malhotra is known for. “I worked with master craftsmen to create handwoven brocades, intricate pearl embellishments and signature sequins, but the silhouettes were envisioned with an international sensibility.”

Suits dominated the runway – but not the corporate kinds, more couture-esque. (Supplied)

With sahoor and iftar gatherings just around the corner, Malhotra’s kaftans and abaya-like silhouettes were elegant and versatile. “This collection reflects a shift toward a more universal language of fashion – where heritage meets innovation, and tradition finds expression in modern, statement-making forms,” he said.


Saudi fashion label KML joins LVMH Prize shortlist

Updated 14 February 2025
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Saudi fashion label KML joins LVMH Prize shortlist

DUBAI: Launched in 2013, The LVMH Prize has unveiled its semi-finalists for 2025, with creatives from Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Egypt making the cut.

Saudi menswear brand KML, by co-founders Ahmed and Razan Hassan, was named in the shortlist. The brand is known for its sharp tailoring and minimalist designs and was recently flaunted by US celebrity stylist Law Roach when he attended the “1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” showcase in Riyadh.

Renaissance Renaissance, led by Beirut-based Cynthia Merhej,  is a returning contender from 2021 while Egyptian designer Yasmin Mansour’s eponymous brand earned her a spot on the semi-finalist list, as well as a 2024 Fashion Trust Arabia Prize.

The full list of semi-finalists includes Alainpaul by Alain Paul (France), All-in by Benjamin Barron (US), Bror August Vestbø (Norway), Boyedoe by David Boye-Doe Kusi (Ghana), Francesco Murano (Italy), Josh Tafoya (US), Meruert Tolegen by Meruert Planul-Tolegen (US), MFPEN by Sigurd Bank (Denmark), Nicklas Skovgaard (Denmark), Penultimate by Xiang Gao (China), Pillings by Ryota Murakami (Japan), Sinéad O’Dwyer (Ireland), Steve O Smith (United Kingdom), Tolu Coker (UK), Torisheju by Torishéju Dumi (UK), Young N Sang by Sang Lim Lee and Youngshin Hong (South Korea), and Zomer by Danial Aitouganov (The Netherlands) and Soshiotsuki by Soshi Otsuki (Japan).

The designers will present their latest collections on March 5 and 6 during Paris Fashion Week.

The LVMH Prize is open to international designers, aged 18 to 40, who have created at least two collections.

The winner of the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers receives a $314,000 endowment and  a mentorship by LVMH. Meanwhile, the winner of the Karl Lagerfeld Prize receives a $157,000 prize and a one-year LVMH mentorship.

The jury includes designer Phoebe Philo and Louis Vuitton menswear creative director Pharrell Williams, Loewe designer Jonathan Anderson, Dior creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri, Louis Vuitton womenswear creative director Nicolas Ghesquière, designer Marc Jacobs and Dior CEO Delphine Arnault, among others.


Valentine’s gift guide featuring exquisite options from Saudi brands

Updated 14 February 2025
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Valentine’s gift guide featuring exquisite options from Saudi brands

Explore this curated list of romantic gifts for Valentine's Day, featuring exquisite options from Saudi brands.

Ofa Jewelry

A timeless classic reimagined, this handcrafted ring is made from 18k solid gold and adorned with pink sapphires (SR2,890).

Kooheji Jewelry

This sleek horoof pendant from Kooheji is a statement of personal style. Nestled in a heart of shimmering mother of pearl and crafted in lustrous 18K gold, the graceful pendant hangs from a shimmering chain, offering a contemporary and meaningful expression of individuality (SR1,692.60).

Charmaleena Jewelry

The ca-love-graphy love necklace in yellow gold, paved with diamonds, is a luxurious and meaningful piece that symbolizes love. This elegant necklace is ideal for making a statement of devotion (SR3,795).

Alwaleef Perfumes

Yaqoot is a romantic fragrance with a captivating scent that begins with bergamot and concludes with the allure of musk and vanilla, leaving a distinctive, lasting presence (SR249).

Mihyar Brand

Mihyar’s stylish mix of metal, leather, and beaded bracelets reflect the latest trends and are suitable for any occasion (SR99).

Zyros Brand

This elegant rosary is a charming addition for the man who values style. Made from Faturan stone, it features 35 meticulously crafted red stones, making it suitable for daily use (SR119).

Alrajul Almotameez Brand

Handcrafted with attention to detail, these BOZCADA cufflinks exemplify high elegance and are perfect for any formal occasion (SR249).

 


Loli Bahia, Mona Tougaard walk at Tory Burch’s Fall/Winter 2025 show in New York  

Updated 12 February 2025
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Loli Bahia, Mona Tougaard walk at Tory Burch’s Fall/Winter 2025 show in New York  

DUBAI: Regional models Loli Bahia and Mona Tougaard took center stage at the Tory Burch Fall/Winter 2025 show during New York Fashion Week, walking the runway in layered, textured ensembles.

Bahia, who is French Algerian, wore a navy pullover sweater with an oversized white collar, paired with brown trousers featuring a panel running down the sides. The sweater’s sleeves were rolled back to reveal a lighter lining, and a small gold pin fastened the collar. She carried a structured black leather bag with a long strap and wore polished brown leather shoes. 

Meanwhile, Tougaard — who has Danish, Turkish, Somali and Ethiopian ancestry — wore a rich navy look, featuring a shaggy-textured coat draped over matching velvet pants. 

Bahia wore a navy pullover sweater with an oversized white collar, paired with brown trousers featuring a panel running down the sides. (Supplied)

A structured scarf was wrapped around her shoulders, secured with a gold pin. The look was completed with glossy pointed-toe shoes and she carried a slouchy black leather handbag with soft folds and a long strap.

Tory Burch’s latest collection played with the familiar, offering a “twisted” take on classic sportswear, according to show notes. 

Pieces that might traditionally be considered wardrobe staples — such as cardigans, sweatpants and blazers — were reimagined. Banker shirts flared at the cuffs, cardigan sleeves were slashed and pinned at the shoulder, and shirt dresses followed a spiral construction, giving them a sculptural drape. 

Tougaard wore a rich navy look, featuring a shaggy-textured coat draped over matching velvet pants. (Supplied)

“A wardrobe collected over time, where each piece becomes irreplaceable: the perfect blazer, a favorite dress, a worn-in sweatshirt,” Burch said in a released statement.

The fabrics reflected the collection’s focus on deconstruction and transformation. Corduroy shaped cut-out dresses, needle-punched wool resembled fleece, and Japanese brushed jersey refined sweatpants and rugby tops.

Footwear incorporated details like heels, zippers and seams that appeared asymmetrical. The Twisted Pump from Spring/Summer 2025 returned in a distorted T-strap and slingback sandal.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by TORY BURCH (@toryburch)

For the jewelry, the designer introduced a hint of ’70s glamour. Shoulder-dusting chain earrings, oversized crystal flower brooches, and gold-tone sunglasses brought a vintage sensibility to the collection. Notably, the whimsical animal-inspired jewelry seen in recent seasons continued. 

The show took place at the Museum of Modern Art, and was attended by guests including Amanda Seyfried, Jodie Turner-Smith and Alexandra Daddario, who shared a bench with singer-songwriter Ciara and media icon Martha Stewart. 

The event was set to a soundtrack curated by Wladimir Schall.