Startup of the Week: Galag — redefining Saudi fashion

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Updated 05 April 2021
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Startup of the Week: Galag — redefining Saudi fashion

  • The brand was not originally sold in Saudi, but the co-founders wanted to release it in the Kingdom as a pop-up

JEDDAH: Sultan bin Mohammad, a 33-year-old entrepreneur, co-founded the fashion brand Galag with Talal bin Mohammad.

Galag started off as a merchandise store and from there developed into the clothing brand that it is today.

“In 2017 we just kept on launching different collections,” Sultan said.

Sultan believes that what makes Galag stand out from other clothing lines is that it is always striving to find something new, with experimentation a core part of the brand.

“Every time we create something we try to elevate the previous pieces, we are always trying to expand the brand image by using better fabrics and better manufacturing.”

The entrepreneur loves fashion and it is the prime source of his motivation. “I keep my eyes open and look at all kinds of fashion, whether it is originating from Korea, Japan or Europe, and then figure out how do I put my own twist on it. When the product comes together, the satisfaction of looking at this new product is what keeps me going.”

The business venture has not been without its challenges, Sultan said.

“The first challenge is getting eyes on the brand when so many people are starting brands and many are doing a good job with it as well. The challenge is to put your brand through and see if it connects with people.”

Another challenge that the entrepreneur has experienced is the financial side of the business. He said that people investing in a startup needed to be OK with it not returning profits for a few years. “A lot of the clothing brands in the first couple of years don’t continue because they aren’t seeing the return.”

The brand was not originally sold in Saudi, but the co-founders wanted to release it in the Kingdom as a pop-up. “Our designs weren’t necessarily similar to what a Saudi brand is, it was different, and we had to explain to them that we are a Saudi brand. To my surprise, people were amused by the details and they understood the style and what we were trying to portray.”

People buying their products was all the motivation the brand needed to start selling in Saudi Arabia, he said, and now there are plans for further expansion.

The future will be built on attention to detail and creativity, Sultan said, with each piece designed with precision.

“I want to create such products that the customers will have a product for each day, my aim is to create clothes that look good on their own but also add personality when incorporated in an outfit.”

 


Victoria Beckham drops capsule collection with Mideast retailer

Updated 30 April 2025
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Victoria Beckham drops capsule collection with Mideast retailer

  • British singer and designer launches in Dubai with influencers
  • Beckham expresses ‘joy’ over women here wearing her designs

DUBAI: British fashion designer and singer Victoria Beckham hosted an intimate dinner in Dubai this week with some of the city’s leading style influencers to celebrate her exclusive capsule collection with Middle Eastern online luxury retailer Ounass.

The collaboration includes a dedicated pop-up at the Ounass Maison, located in Dubai’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Jumeirah.

It features a curated selection of Spring/Summer 2025 pieces, including designs created specifically for the Middle East. The collection is also available online.

“So excited to be here in Dubai to celebrate my capsule for @ounass,” she wrote on Instagram. “Coming here and seeing how Emirati women are wearing my clothes and making them their own brings me so much joy.”

The dinner was attended by several fashion influencers, including Karen Wazen, her sister Andrea Wazen, Dima Al-Sheikhly, Dana Hourani, Sossi Wartanian, Jessica Kahawaty, Deema Al-Asadi and Rym Saidi.

Guests posed for photos with Beckham, who wore a shiny silver-white satin dress featuring a one-shoulder design, soft draping across the bodice, and a gathered detail at the hip that flowed into an asymmetrical hem. She completed the look with clear pointed heels.

Beckham attended the event with her youngest daughter, Harper Seven, 13, who matched her mother in a sleek, floor-length satin gown in a light silver shade.

Harper’s dress featured thin spaghetti straps, a straight neckline, and a smooth, fitted silhouette. She completed the look with a black clutch.

Victoria was not the only member of the Beckham household making fashion headlines this week.

Her husband, football legend David Beckham, is also making a foray into the fashion world with the announcement of a major new collaboration.

In Spring/Summer 2025, BOSS will launch “BECKHAM x BOSS,” the brand’s first collection co-designed with David.

The pieces will draw inspiration from the star’s personal style, and promises to blend modern tailoring with heritage influences.

“We have been very much looking forward to this launch and are more than excited to see how these pieces are received by our end consumers,” said Daniel Grieder, CEO of Hugo Boss, in a statement.

“This collection is based on our strategic priority that product is key and our goal to seamlessly dress our customers for every occasion with our brands.”


Bella Hadid celebrates beauty brand in Texas after Gigi Hadid’s birthday in New York

Updated 27 April 2025
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Bella Hadid celebrates beauty brand in Texas after Gigi Hadid’s birthday in New York

DUBAI: Almost one year since launching her fragrance brand Orebella, US Dutch Palestinian supermodel Bella Hadid made an appearance at the Ulta Beauty Field Leadership Convention in San Antonio, Texas, to promote her label.

The alcohol-free scents of Orebella, which launched in May 2024, were Hadid’s answer to traditional perfumes. The model dubs her fragrances “skin perfumes” and she has described them as “hydrating, alcohol-free and enriched with essential oils.”

Hadid attended the convention hosted by cosmetics chain store Ulta Beauty, taking to Instagram to say it “is so beautiful because we get to celebrate so many amazing brands but most of all we get to celebrate all of the hard working Ulta family that help us feel great!”

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Bella (@bellahadid)

Hadid jetted to San Antonio after celebrating her sister Gigi Hadid’s 30th birthday in New York. The birthday party was held at Le Chalet in New York City on April 25, and Bella attended in a chic all-black look complete with dark sunglasses.

Gigi entered the venue with her partner, Oscar nominee Bradley Cooper, and met up with her sister Bella, mother Yolanda Hadid, father Mohamed Hadid, Russian media personality Keni Silva and US actress Anne Hathaway.

Gigi’s birthday was on April 23, and the internet was abuzz with celebrities, designers, family and friends who sent birthday wishes to the supermodel as she turned 30.

Bella shared a carousel of photos on Instagram to celebrate, writing: “IT’S GIGI DAY EVERYONE SAY IT WITH ME. HAPPPYYY 30th BIRTHDAYYYY JELENAAAA.”

Yolanda Hadid, Gigi’s mother, took a moment to reflect on her daughter’s 30-year journey. “Thirty years went by in a flash, 10,950 days to be exact but there hasn’t been one day without you on my mind,” she wrote, sharing photos of Gigi from babyhood to recent moments.

She added: “As you know giving birth to your first born is life changing, it really marks the first day of the rest of your life as you transition from womanhood into the blessing of motherhood. Today is your special day and I want to say thank for choosing me to be your mommy and for all the love, light and reflection you have brought into my life.”

Italian designer Donatella Versace also shared a birthday message, posting a few images with Gigi and writing: “Happy Birthday to my Taurus twin, @gigihadid! I wish I was with you on this special day. I am sending you kisses and so much love - today and always. Love you!”


Zuhair Murad styles Blake Lively, Nicole Scherzinger

Updated 26 April 2025
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Zuhair Murad styles Blake Lively, Nicole Scherzinger

DUBAI: Lebanese celebrity designer Zuhair Murad made a statement at the 2025 Time 100 Gala this week, with American actress Blake Lively, as well as singer and songwriter Nicole Scherzinger, showcasing his creations on the red carpet.

Lively, who attended the event with her husband Ryan Reynolds, wore a pink taffeta off-the-shoulder gown featuring a corseted bodice and a train detail from Murad’s ready-to-wear spring 2025 collection.

She accessorized her look with emerald earrings, cuffs and jade rings from US jewelry designer Lorraine Schwartz.

Lively, who posed on the red carpet with Reynolds and her mother Willie Elain McAlpin, was honored at the event.

She took to the stage to speak about violence against women and paid tribute to her mother, who was seated alongside Reynolds.

Scherzinger, meanwhile, chose a black off-the-shoulder sequin gown from Murad’s ready-to-wear pre-fall 2025 collection.

The 2025 Time 100 Gala was held at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City, celebrating Time’s annual list of the 100 most influential people worldwide.

The evening brought together a wide range of leaders, entertainers, athletes and innovators recognized for their contributions across different fields.

The event was hosted by rapper Snoop Dogg, who walked the red carpet with his son and gave special mentions on stage to honorees such as gymnast Simone Biles, Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, actress Demi Moore, chemistry Nobel Prize laureate Demis Hassabis and makeup mogul Bobbi Brown.

Other notable honorees in attendance included Scarlett Johansson, Serena Williams and Kristen Bell.

Musical performances were given by fellow honorees Ed Sheeran and Myles Smith.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Hisham Gamal (@hishamgamal)

Murad has been recognized for his detailed craftsmanship in haute couture and bridal fashion.

Since founding his brand in 1997, he has gained international attention. His creations have been worn by celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Taylor Swift, Celine Dion, Sofia Vergara, Kristen Stewart and Johansson on major red carpets.

He is one of a handful of Arab designers on the official Paris Fashion Week and Paris Haute Couture Week calendars.

Murad made headlines this week for dressing Egyptian actress Laila Ahmed Zaher on her wedding day.

She wore a fitted, high-neck gown with long sleeves, adorned with intricate lace embroidery throughout. The form-fitting silhouette was paired with a detachable voluminous tulle overskirt.


Best and Worst: Ghalyah Al-Sharif  talks styling, travel and trends

Updated 25 April 2025
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Best and Worst: Ghalyah Al-Sharif  talks styling, travel and trends

DUBAI: The Saudi beauty content creator talks styling, travel, and trends.  

Best TV show or film you’ve ever seen? 

“Breaking Bad.” It’s an absolute masterpiece with thrilling twists, unforgettable characters and brilliant writing that kept me hooked from start to finish. 

Worst TV show or film you’ve ever seen? 

“The Room.” It was honestly hard to get through because of the awkward acting and the storyline that did not make sense at all to me. 

Best personal style moment so far? 

My green outfit at the Make Up For Ever event during Ramadan was definitely a standout. I feel like the rich color of the dress really captured my personality and made me feel so confident and elegant. 

Worst personal style moment? 

Honestly, I can’t think of one. I always take time to choose outfits that make me feel confident and comfortable in my own skin.  

Best accessory for a little black dress? 

A pair of bold statement earrings. A sleek, structured clutch can also instantly elevate the look while keeping it chic and sophisticated. 

Worst accessory for a little black dress? 

Anything overly flashy can distract from the elegance of the dress and throw off the entire vibe. 

Best fashion trend of 2025? 

Classic suits. I love them. They’re so powerful and timeless. They give off an effortlessly elegant look that works for so many occasions. 

Worst fashion trend of 2025? 

I hate neon colors. They can be too loud and difficult to style in a way that feels polished or flattering. 

Best advice you’ve ever been given? 

“Be open to new ideas.” Personal and professional growth starts with curiosity and the willingness to evolve. It’s something I strive for every day. 

Worst advice you’ve ever been given? 

“Don’t try too hard.” If you’re passionate about something, you should give it your all without holding back. 

Best book you’ve ever read? 

“The Four Agreements” (by Don Miguel Ruiz). It’s such a powerful life-changing read that shifted my mindset and helped me find more inner peace.  

Worst book you’ve ever read? 

“The Secret.” Yes, the intentions were positive, but I just found it overly simplistic and lacking practical depth. 

Best thing to do when you’re feeling low? 

I love to write down my thoughts and emotions. It really helps me process what I’m going through and gently releases any negativity I might be holding on to. 

Worst thing to do when you’re feeling good? 

Procrastinate. It can really ruin any positive momentum and just leave you feeling like you haven’t accomplished anything. 

Best holiday destination? 

Bali. It’s incredibly peaceful, visually stunning, and has this unique spiritual energy that always makes me feel inspired.  

Worst holiday destination? 

Honestly, I’ve been lucky so far. Every trip I have taken has offered something memorable and enjoyable. I learn a lot from each trip.  

Best subject at school? 

Art. It allowed me to express myself creatively and tap into my imagination in a way that felt natural and fulfilling. 

Worst subject at school? 

Math. I never really clicked with numbers, and it always felt more like a challenge than something I actually enjoyed. 

Best thing to do to ensure you have a productive day? 

Start the day with a clear plan and an organized mindset. It makes a huge difference in staying focused and achieving your goals. 

Worst thing to do when trying to be productive? 

Scrolling through social media. It’s such a time drain and makes it harder to gain focus again. 


Gigi Hadid honored by family, friends on her 30th birthday

Updated 24 April 2025
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Gigi Hadid honored by family, friends on her 30th birthday

DUBAI: The internet is abuzz with celebrities, designers, family and friends sending birthday wishes to US Dutch Palestinian model Gigi Hadid as she turns 30.

Gigi’s younger sister, Bella Hadid, shared a carousel of photos on Instagram to celebrate her birthday. “IT’S GIGI DAY EVERYONE SAY IT WITH ME. HAPPPYYY 30th BIRTHDAYYYY JELENAAAA,” she wrote.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Bella (@bellahadid)

The post featured a mix of baby and childhood photos, runway moments and family memories.

Yolanda Hadid, Gigi’s mother, took a moment to reflect on her daughter’s 30-year journey. “Thirty years went by in a flash, 10,950 days to be exact but there hasn’t been one day without you on my mind,” she wrote, sharing photos of Gigi from babyhood to recent moments.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by YOLANDA (@yolanda.hadid)

She added: “As you know giving birth to your first born is life changing, it really marks the first day of the rest of your life as you transition from womanhood into the blessing of motherhood. Today is your special day and I want to say thank for choosing me to be your mommy and for all the love, light and reflection you have brought into my life.”

Italian designer Donatella Versace also shared a birthday message, posting a few images with Gigi and writing: “Happy Birthday to my Taurus twin, @gigihadid! I wish I was with you on this special day. I am sending you kisses and so much love - today and always. Love you!”

American fashion designer Thom Browne posted a picture of Gigi on the brand’s page, sending her well wishes as well. 

Fan pages also shared short tribute videos to celebrate the supermodel’s special day.