It’s no secret that summer in the desert means temperatures rising above what some deem humanly possible. Yet, the climate is not the only thing heating up the region this summer. Some of the Arab world’s hottest labels are debuting Spring/Summer 2020 collections featuring lightweight fabrics, neutral tones, and flowy silhouettes to keep you effortlessly cool from morning to evening with everything from pleated maxi dresses to oversized matching sets. As preparations for the imminent scorching sun begin, we spoke to six Arab designers who are already bringing the heat this season with soon-to-become summer staples rooted in Middle Eastern culture.
Where did you get the inspiration for this collection?
Twenty years ago, Sultan Al Qaboos ordered the creation of a classical musical orchestra indicating how music is deeply embedded in the Omani culture. As I always love to include a piece of Oman in every collection, my Spring/Summer 2020 collection was the perfect opportunity to embrace this.
What was the starting point of this collection?
The starting point of this collection was designing fluid styles that resonate with the melodious essence of music. Followed by choosing a soothing color palette with hues of whisper white, rose dust, and misty blue that pay tribute to the sound of mellow tones.
If we ask you to choose one trend for summer, what would that be?
I feel light flowy kaftans are an eternal trend of summer as it is very comfortable, easy to wear, and chic.
What is your favorite this summer in dressing?
Comfortable palazzos are my go-to this summer, which I like to pair with an elegant top. If I’m attending an event, I would accessorize this look with the perfect belt and stilettos.
What is your top tip for summer shopping?
I would advise on investing in single-piece dresses made with breathable fabrics as it’s a great way to beat the summer heat.
How would you style these pieces?
One can always style their dresses with complimenting jewelry, belts, shoes, and bags. It is also the perfect season to play with fun sunglasses as well. For example, my SS’20 collection features wrap-style dresses in flowy fabrics that can be paired with flats and sunglasses for an easy day look or with heels and minimal jewelry for an evening look.
IAM MAI
Where did you get the inspiration for this collection?
My Spring/Summer 2020 collection is inspired by the simplicity of structure, especially the sequence of staircases.
What was the starting point of this collection?
The starting point of this collection is derived from the graphic lines of staircases and my vision of reflecting this through the artistic use of pleating.
If we ask you to choose one trend for summer, what would that be?
One trend I would choose would be tonal dressing, which I have also incorporated into my SS’20 collection. Tonal dressing is so versatile and timeless that it can be styled in many ways.
What is your favorite this summer in dressing?
My style is minimalist, which is making a return this summer so I like to go for pared-back styles that are versatile.
What is your top tip for summer shopping?
For me, comfort is key! So flowy pieces in lightweight fabrics to keep me cool in the summer heat.
How would you style these pieces?
My Spring/Summer 2020 pieces are designed with an aim to feel effortless. Voluminous culottes with matching tops and dresses fused with pleating are the highlight of this collection. Pairing them with kitten heels or sneakers can take these pieces from day to night.
Illustrella Moda
Where did you get the inspiration for this collection?
Our inspiration for every collection is derived from elements that surround us. Similarly, we were drawn to the beauty of butterflies and how it symbolizes transformation and creativity. We wanted to create a collection based on this, which is the perfect way to mark the start of a new year.
What was the starting point of this collection?
The starting point of this collection was designing details that artistically reference a butterfly. For example, we have incorporated plissees that portray the wings of a butterfly while laser-cut butterflies are infused acting as a key element to this collection.
If we ask you to choose one trend for summer, what would that be?
One trend I would choose is pastel shades. Pastel colors are feminine and delicate yet portray a light feeling, which is perfect for a hot summer day. The Farfalla collection also features tri-collar blazers emphasizing a novel twist to blazers which is a staple in every woman’s wardrobe and a timeless trend.
What is your favorite this summer in dressing?
My favorite in summer dressing would be long dresses paired with flat mules and a hat for a chic yet comfortable style of dressing.
What is your top tip for summer shopping?
My top tip for summer shopping would be to invest in high quality, versatile pieces in light fabrics that allow you to style them in various ways.
How would you style these pieces?
The latest Farfalla collection features A-line dresses that make the perfect outfit for a summer evening when paired with minimal jewelry and high heels.
Read Also: Exclusive Look at Ashi Studio’s Emotional SS20 Couture Collection
Marina Qureshi
Where did you get the inspiration for this collection?
That’s a great question, so I’ll try and give a great answer. For the past one and a half years, I hadn’t taken a break from work and last summer, I couldn’t stop thinking about escaping to an island. I started looking into where to travel to and came across an Indonesian gem, Komodo Island. This island inspired me to work on a collection that translates its pink beaches and summer nights.
What was the starting point of this collection?
The color story and functionality of the styles were the starting point of this collection.
If we ask you to choose one trend for summer, what would that be?
It would have to be oversized sleeves.
What is your favorite this summer in dressing?
That would be summer dresses. From my Spring/Summer 2020 collection, my personal favorites are The Camellia and The Liz Dress.
What is your top tip for summer shopping?
My top tip would be to invest in some high-quality items which transcend seasons.
How would you style these pieces?
I would style these pieces with naked sandals and chunky gold jewelry.
Serrb
Where did you get the inspiration for this collection?
The Spring/Summer 2020 collection is drawn from the love for contemporary styles that are fused with a Ramadan collection inspired by the dynamic spirit of Morocco.
What was the starting point of this collection?
The starting point of this collection was incorporating Moroccon forms of detailing in a contemporary way. We did this by fusing tassels and fringes with contemporary silhouettes.
If we ask you to choose one trend for summer, what would that be?
It would be long flowy dresses that are ideal for a warm summer day.
What is your favorite this summer in dressing?
Light, versatile, and flowy pieces.
What is your top tip for summer shopping?
To buy pieces that are light enough to wear for summer, but can also be layered for winter.
How would you style these pieces?
For a relaxed summer day, we would style the two-piece top and pant with mules and soft jewelry for a minimal look.
Where did you get the inspiration for this collection?
Our inspiration this season came from the island nation of Seychelles. Its natural beauty and eclectic culture were incredibly inspiring.
What was the starting point of this collection?
The starting point has to be the culture of the people. We started looking into how connected the people are to the nature of the land and sea and how this influenced their traditional arts and clothing, and this prompted our design direction for the season.
If we ask you to choose one trend for summer, what would that be?
My favorite trends for the summer would be airy, maxi dresses which are perfect for the weather!
What is your favorite this summer in dressing?
My favorite would be easy throws to dress up a casual look.
What is your top tip for summer shopping?
A crisp white button-down is a summer staple. It’s one of the most versatile pieces you can have in your wardrobe that you can dress up or dress down.
How would you style these pieces?
From my Spring/Summer 2020 collection, I would dress the Aldabra throw with a white T-shirt and jeans for a casual day look or the Esmeralda dress with a pair of heels for a dressy summer lunch. Many of the dresses can be dressed up or down with a pair of heels or flats, while the other pieces were designed to be quite versatile to mix and match with each other.
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