Jacket, Hindamme; Pants, SemSem at The Modist; Scarf, Moga
It is a date that will be forever engraved in history – and also on one Saudi Arabian designer’s newest piece. Hindamme‘s Mohammed Khoja has paid tribute to his home nation, and its landmark reform that lifts the ban on women driving, in a matte, satin bomber jacket. Making a true sartorial statement, the design has the date that women in the Kingdom can legally get behind the wheel – June 24, 2018 – embroidered on the back, in both English and Arabic.
“The decision to lift the ban on women driving is a step forward in our quest to achieve equality, balance, and peace. Every country has events that shift the course of the future,” Khoja told Vogue Arabia of the commemorative design. “Although the lift of the ban on women driving is not the most defining moment in Saudi history, it is definitely a very symbolic one.”
The sports-luxe staple comes in three color ways – black and gold, black and platinum, and green and gold – and was designed to be worn by both men and women. Entitled the “Driving Jacket”, the piece features embroidery in metallic threads in both Gregorian and Hijri dates, while the antique-imbued medals which adorn each sleeve were “inspired by ones from the times of King Saud”, Khoja reveals. “There is also subtle metallic detailing in the ribbing of the jackets that illuminates under light.”
Jory Al Maiman and Lujain. Photographed by Ekleel Al Fares
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The US$315 (SAR/AED 1,157) jacket, which is sold online and in Life Stores in Riyadh and Jeddah, also comes with a message printed on the interior lining, which reads: “A symbolic date forever engrained in our memory is when the royal decree of King Salman bin Abdulaziz to lift the ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia takes effect.” The reversible nature of the piece means the script can also be worn on the outside of the jacket. “This decision [to lift the driving ban] is only the beginning, and I am confident that there’s a future for all, men and women inclusively, to have the opportunity to reach any dream they strive to,” says Khoja.
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Hair and Makeup: Bianca Hartkopf at MMG
Model: Monika at MMG
With thanks to Fashion Exclusive
