What We Are Buying Today: Saudi clothing brand ‘012’

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Updated 03 December 2023
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What We Are Buying Today: Saudi clothing brand ‘012’

  • 012’s first collection features a signature tee with a unique design of the brand’s logo that can be read in both directions, with “012” representing Jeddah’s area code and Jeddah spelled out in Arabic letters

Fashion brand 012 has emerged as a symbol ofJeddah’s identity, capturing the essence of the city through its clothing collections. The brand provides residents with a tangible representation of their love and pride for Jeddah.

Founders Raif, Naif, Hammam and Manaf Abduljawad were inspired by the passion displayed by university alumni who proudly wear apparel adorned with their alma mater’s logo.

Their vision was born as they studied abroad in the US and the four set out to create a brand that captures the spirit of Jeddah.

012’s first collection features a signature tee with a unique design of the brand’s logo that can be read in both directions, with “012” representing Jeddah’s area code and Jeddah spelled out in Arabic letters.

Building on the success of its first offering, 012 recently launched a second collection titled “A Piece of Home,” which pays homage to Jeddah’s iconic landmarks, merging the brand’s logo with the iconic Globe Roundabout, the “Accident! (Crazy Speed)” car sculpture roundabout and the Rawasheen.

“We wanted to create more than just clothing. We wanted to capture the memories and experiences that shape Jeddah’s unique character. Our collections are a way for people to take a piece of Jeddah with them wherever they go,” Naif Abduljawad said.
012 items are designed with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring both style and comfort. Looking ahead, the 012 founders envision collaborating with local artists to further enrich Jeddah’s vibrant artistic scene. By providing a platform for talented individuals, the brand aims to amplify the voices of local artists.

In addition to its commitment to artistic expression, 012 actively engages in community initiatives and sponsors the 63 Racing Team, a Jeddah-based jet ski team.

For more information about 012 and its collections, visit reppin012.com and @reppin012 on Instagram.

 


Zuhair Murad unveils Marina Rinaldi collection inspired by the Tang dynasty

Updated 18 March 2025
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Zuhair Murad unveils Marina Rinaldi collection inspired by the Tang dynasty

DUBAI: Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad has unveiled his latest collaboration with Italian label Marina Rinaldi. Murad designed the brand’s Spring/Summer 2025 capsule collection inspired by China’s Tang dynasty. 

Drawing from the dynasty’s introduction of peony cultivation in imperial gardens, Murad infused the collection with images of the flower.

The collection focuses largely on eveningwear.

The collection focuses largely on eveningwear. (Supplied)

“Grand evening gowns go beyond the pure object, they are a way of investing in one’s personal history,” the designer said in a released statement. True to his signature style, the collection features hourglass silhouettes and intricate hand-embroidered details.

The collection’s color palette mirrors another element of Tang dynasty artistry — delicate chinaware. Soft shades of cream, sky blue, aquamarine green and pink infuse the flowing chiffon gowns, pleated bodices and long plisse skirts. 

“These looks wrap and enhance all women,” said Murad, highlighting the collection’s inclusive and flattering designs. The pieces are crafted from a mix of luxurious fabrics, including cady, pure silk georgette and shimmering sequins hand-sewn onto tulle to create a wave effect.

This is Murad’s second collection for Marina Rinaldi. (Supplied)

The silhouettes range from semi-fitted bodices that gently flare out to rich, flowing kaftans adorned with peony motifs. The collection also features long-sleeved gowns with deep V-necklines that emphasize the waist, along with sleek trouser suits for a modern touch.

The Tang dynasty ruled china from 618 to 907, with an interregnum between 690 and 705. The period was known for its flourishing arts and culture scene, with imperial ceremonies reviving the practice of hosting orchestras and companies of dancers. China in this period was also open to outside influences as as Arabian and Persian seamen did trade in the area.

This is Murad’s second collection for Marina Rinaldi that merges historical influences with contemporary fashion. 

The designer 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, Blake Lively, Kristen Stewart, and Scarlett Johansson on major red carpets. 

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


Ikram Abdi spotted at Moncler show in French ski resort

Updated 16 March 2025
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Ikram Abdi spotted at Moncler show in French ski resort

DUBAI: Swedish Somali model Ikram Abdi attended the Moncler Grenoble Fall/Winter 2025 runway show in Courchevel, France, on Saturday, as Saudi Arabia-based model Georgina Rodriguez hit the snowy catwalk.

Courchevel is a French Alps ski resort located in the Tarentaise Valley. It is a part of Les Trois Vallées, the largest linked ski area in the world.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Moncler (@moncler)

“The energy of winter sports, the warmth and joy of experiences shared on the snow, and the brand’s dedication to dressing all aspects of mountain life, combining high performance and high style, will be celebrated with a memorable brand experience at high altitude,” Moncler said in a statement released in December, before the unusual runway location was unveiled.

Fast forward to March 15 and the luxury label invited the who’s who of Hollywood to the resort’s snow-capped peaks as models walked a landing strip-turned-runway in a flurry of snow.

Abdi was joined by actress Ashley Park, Oscar-winner Adrien Brody, actress Jessica Chastain and South Korean star Lee Jae-wook, among others.

Jessica Chastain at the show. (Getty Images)

While the star-studded audience took in the show, Rodriguez walked the runway in a chunky knitted look complete with knee-high, fur-lined boots.

The model, who is the longtime partner of football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, has modelled for luxury brands before and was recently spotted sitting front row at Lebanese label Elie Saab’s Paris Fashion Week.

Rodriguez walked the runway in a chunky knitted look complete with knee-high, fur-lined boots. (Instagram)

Elie Saab’s Ready-to-Wear Fall/Winter 2025-2026 collection transported the Paris Fashion Week audience to the world’s most exclusive mountain retreats, where relaxed glamour meets alpine allure.

At the show in March, Rodriguez wore a pristine white outfit that was in tune with Saab’s alpine theme. The ensemble featured a luxurious, textured top adorned with delicate feather-like details, adding a touch of avant-garde flair.

Rodriguez also recently joined forces with Lebanese dance group Mayyas, who won the 17th season of “America's Got Talent,” for a new campaign released earlier this month.

They starred in an advertisement for Egyptian real estate company Horizon Egypt Developments, where Rodriguez and the Mayyas promote Saada, a real estate development in New Cairo in Egypt.

For her part, Abdi, who posed for photographs at Moncler’s latest show, made her catwalk debut in 2018 during London Modest Fashion Week. She went on to walk for the likes of Iceberg and Charles Jeffrey and she has fronted campaigns for major international brands, including Burberry and Nike. 


Bella Hadid swaps praise with Donatella Versace after fashion shake up

Updated 16 March 2025
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Bella Hadid swaps praise with Donatella Versace after fashion shake up

DUBAI: US Dutch Palestinian supermodel Bella Hadid shared praise for Italian fashion icon Donatella Versace on Saturday, days after the latter announced she will be stepping down as the creative director of the Italian luxury fashion house founded by her late brother Gianni Versace.

“Donatella era … will live on for infinity,” Hadid posted on Instagram alongside a carousel of images of her various shoots for the storied fashion house.

Bella Hadid shared praise for Italian fashion icon Donatella Versace on Saturday, days after the latter announced she will be stepping down as the creative director of the Italian luxury fashion house founded by her late brother Gianni Versace. (Instagram)

“Our time together will be memories I am buried with. The first time I truly felt beautiful in our industry … thank you for being fashion mother to us all, for making us feel loved, beautiful, unique, sexy, happy,” she added.

Versace replied with her own message for the model, who has starred in campaigns for Versace and has hit the runway for the luxury label on numerous occasions.

“Bella, your words truly mean the world to me. You are beautiful inside and out with a heart made of Versace gold. I love you so, so much. Thank you for always being there for me. With love, Donatella Versace,” she wrote in the comments section.  

Bell Hadid posted a carousel of images of her various shoots for the storied fashion house. (Instagram)

The designer will assume the new role of chief brand ambassador, Versace’s US owner Capri Holdings announced on Thursday.

Versace will be replaced by Dario Vitale, who most recently was design director at the Miu Miu brand owned by the Prada Group. His appointment is effective on April 1, the Associated Press reported.

Versace, 69, welcomed Vitale, emphasizing in a statement that “championing the next generation of designers has always been important to me,'” while Vitale, 41, thanked Versace for "her trust in me.”

Versace was thrust into the role of creative director in 1997 after her brother's murder in Miami, at first tentatively and then with a boldness that led to some big runway and red carpet moments.

The creative shift comes amid speculation that the Prada Group is in talks to buy Versace from Capri Holdings, which paid 2 billion euros (currently $2.2 billion) for the fashion house in 2018. The U.S. group also owns Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo, AP reported.

Miuccia Prada acknowledged interest in the brand on the sidelines of Milan Fashion Week last month, while Versace made no comment at what was to be her last runway show.


Actress Rachel Zegler stuns in Elie Saab gown

Updated 15 March 2025
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Actress Rachel Zegler stuns in Elie Saab gown

DUBAI: Rachel Zegler, star of Disney’s upcoming live-action movie “Snow White,” turned heads at a promotional event in Europe this week when she appeared in a breathtaking creation by Lebanese designer Elie Saab.

Featuring intricate embroidery, delicate beadwork and a regal silhouette, the gown was a testament to Saab’s signature artistry. In soft, ivory-toned fabric, it featured delicate floral appliques and shimmering embellishments, with a structured bodice supported by thin straps. A flowing overskirt cascaded into a train.

The overall aesthetic was of a dreamy, enchanted forest, in line with the Snow White theme.

Featuring intricate embroidery, delicate beadwork and a regal silhouette, the gown was a testament to Saab’s signature artistry. (Getty Images)

The actress carried a red apple-shaped purse, a symbolic nod to the fairytale’s poisoned apple. She also wore silver platform heels and minimal jewelry.

The new “Snow White” is a reimagining of the 1937 animated classic, which was Disney’s first feature-length animated film.

Zegler stars as the titular princess, alongside Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen.

Controversy has plagued the movie since it was first announced. Many activists called for a boycott due to Gadot’s stance over the conflict in Gaza.

An Israeli and former member of the Israel Defense Forces, Gadot has been an outspoken supporter of Israel on social media as well as in a passionate speech on March 4 when she was honored at the Anti-Defamation League’s annual summit in New York City.

“Never did I imagine that on the streets of the United States, and different cities around the world, we would see people not condemning Hamas, but celebrating, justifying and cheering on a massacre of Jews,” she said.

Zegler has repeatedly given interviews and used social media to advocate for a “Free Palestine,” indicating a rift between the two leads.

Meanwhile, some Disney fans have questioned casting Zegler as Snow White as she is a Latina actor. The “West Side Story” star also faced backlash when she called the 1937 original “dated” because the prince “literally stalks Snow White.”

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by ELIE SAAB (@eliesaabworld)

Beyond the world of cinema, Elie Saab has made headlines with the launch of his first eau de parfum for men, called Elie Saab L’Homme.

The woody vetiver scent blends bergamot and pink pepper with a bold heart of vetiver. It deepens with cedarwood, creating a warm long-lasting finish.


Best and Worst: Ratana Mohammed  

Updated 14 March 2025
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Best and Worst: Ratana Mohammed  

DUBAI: The Saudi influencer shares her favorite shows, top trends, and the accessory she would never pair with a little black dress.  

Best TV show or film you’ve ever seen? 

Well, it’s actually an anime series called “Attack On Titan.” But for a live-action show it would be “Stranger Things” for sure. And for a movie, “Interstellar” remains untouched.  

Worst TV show you’ve ever seen?   

I would say “Dynasty.” It was too dramatic for my liking with no good plot.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by RATANA (@ratanamohammed)

Best personal style moment so far?    

I’d say my Red Sea mermaid look at Red Sea Fashion Week.  

Worst personal style moment?    

That’s very tricky because I always hand-pick my outfits and go over them many times to make sure I’m satisfied with the final result.  

Best accessory for a little black dress?    

A choker of pearls is always a stunning option. Or long black gloves. They elevate the look.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by RATANA (@ratanamohammed)

Worst accessory for a little black dress?    

I hate silver accessories for a little black dress. I feel like gold adds a touch of elegance and contrast, whereas silver can sometimes look too muted or harsh against the darkness of the dress.  

Best fashion trend of 2025?    

Bohemian style. I love how effortless, free-spirited and artistic it feels. It really aligns with my personal style. The flowy silhouettes, earthy tones and intricate patterns make every outfit look relaxed and stylish. My favorite pieces are maxi skirts, crochet tops and layered jewelry, especially with natural stones or beads. They add such a unique personal touch. 

Worst fashion trend of 2025?    

Slim-fit pants. I never liked skinny jeans back in the day, and I don’t think I’m going to start loving them now either.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by RATANA (@ratanamohammed)

Best advice you’ve ever been given?   

“Do not take criticism from people you wouldn’t take advice from.” It helps me filter out negativity and focus only on constructive feedback from people whose opinions truly matter. Not everyone’s judgment is valuable or relevant to your growth. It’s been a game-changer for building confidence and staying true to myself. 

Worst advice you’ve ever been given? 

I have been advised to behave a certain way if I wanted to “grow.” That advice made me anxious and disconnected from myself. Then I realized that all it takes is just to be authentic.  

Best book you’ve ever read?    

“The Four Agreements.” I love it because it offers such simple yet powerful principles for living a more peaceful and authentic life. The four agreements are: being impeccable with your word, not taking things personally, not making assumptions, and always doing your best. It completely shifted my mindset. It helped me let go of unnecessary stress, improve my relationships, and focus on personal growth. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by RATANA (@ratanamohammed)

Worst book you’ve ever read?    

I don’t think I have read a bad book so far. You learn something from every book you read.  

Best thing to do when you’re feeling low?    

I like to take a shower with salt to cleanse my energy whenever I am feeling low. And I put on good music and just dance! Dancing does wonders. Afterwards, I feel so much lighter, refreshed and more in tune with myself. The salt shower washes away any negativity, and dancing helps me shake off any stuck emotions. By the time I’m done, I feel re-energized, more positive and ready to take on whatever comes next. 

Worst thing to do when you’re feeling good?    

To not be present. It’s so easy to get caught up in overthinking, worrying about the future, or even scrolling mindlessly on your phone instead of fully enjoying the moment. When you’re not present, you miss out on truly experiencing happiness and appreciating how good things feel.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by RATANA (@ratanamohammed)

Best holiday destination?    

Bali or AlUla for sure. I love the serene beaches, the lush greenery and the spiritual energy of Bali. The culture is so rich, and the people are incredibly warm. It’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect with yourself. And AlUla feels like stepping into another world. It’s such a magical and unique destination. The history and untouched beauty of the place are what captivate me the most — it’s peaceful, mysterious, and awe-inspiring all at once. 

Worst holiday destination?    

Every place holds its own magic.  

Best subject at school?   

 Definitely biology, I am a science girlie!   

Worst subject at school?    

Math. Numbers are my enemy.  

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

Wake up early and start with a high-protein meal. That makes me feel more energized, focused and ready to take on the day. Waking up early gives me extra time to set the tone for the day without feeling rushed, and a high-protein meal keeps me full and fueled, preventing energy crashes. When I start my morning this way, I feel more motivated and clear-headed, making it so much easier to stay on top of everything. 

Worst thing to do when you’re trying to have a productive day?    

Procrastinate and get lost in social media. It drains your energy, wastes valuable time and takes you further away from accomplishing your goals, leaving you feeling unproductive and frustrated at the end of the day. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by RATANA (@ratanamohammed)

Best concert you’ve ever been to?   

Coldplay in Abu Dhabi. It was absolutely ecstatic — the atmosphere was just unreal. They really know how to connect with the audience and create this incredible sense of unity. The lights, the visuals, and the way the whole stadium came alive during songs like “Fix You” and “Viva La Vida” was magical. It felt like such a powerful, unforgettable experience. I left feeling like I had been part of something much bigger than just a concert. 

Worst concert you’ve ever been to? 

Justin Bieber. He seemed distracted, and the energy wasn’t what we expected. We’d all been big fans, but it felt like he wasn’t giving his best, which was disappointing. We were hoping for a high-energy, engaging show, but it felt more like he was going through the motions. It definitely didn’t live up to the hype.