London Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2023 saw two renowned Arab design houses, Noon By Noor and Atelier Zuhra, unveil their latest collections. Here’s everything you need to know about the presentations.
Noon By Noor
Photo: Courtesy Noon by Noor
Bahrani Designers Shaikha Noor Al Khalifa and Shaikha Haya Al Khalifa unveiled their latest collection at London’s Royal College of Physicians on February 17, 2023. At the center of their brand’s ideology is a desire to create the perfect symphony between the East and West. This latest collection mirrors that very sentiment, drawing inspiration from the french illustrator Francois Berthoud and the world that they grew up in.
While Francois’s book Fascimile provided a starting point for the black, grey, and brown tones of the pieces it was the art, culture, and beauty of Bahrain that really moved the design process forward. Not only was the new season’s film shot at the RAK Art Foundation in Bahrain but Sheikh Rashid’s artwork titled ‘CUSP’ also provided the most perfect backdrop. Showing the moment of transition between the sun and the moon is a direct nod to how the collection draws upon parallels. East and West, masculine and feminine, light and shade.
The Noon By Noor silhouette for this season is long, lean, and chic with skirts and coats grazing the floor and hints of timeless elegance. This is a collection that reminds us of wardrobes filled with borrowed menswear pieces, a waltz between dense, opaque cloths and light transparencies.
Atelier Zuhra
Photo: Courtesy of Atelier Zuhra
Atelier Zuhra, helmed by Omani designer Rayan Al Sulaimani, presented its latest collection ‘Lily of the Valley’, conjuring up imagery of delicate beauty and a fragrance that reminds us of that first breath in Spring.
The awe-inspiring gowns and cocktail dresses that came down the runway were handcrafted with the finest fabrics and embellishments. From ethereal tulle skirts to decadent lace bodices, every piece was a testament to the craftsmanship that Atelier Zuhra is known for. The house imagines the Atelier Zuhra woman as one possessing intrigue and beauty, a siren who only needs clothes to enhance everything she already possesses. The lily of the valley motif which is featured prominently will do just that for anyone who adorns this collection. Delicate beading, intricate embroidery, and shimmering crystals add a touch of refinement and femininity to each piece.
The collection also features jewelry designed in collaboration with Renu Oberoi. Keeping in mind modern women like herself, Oberoi is known for luxurious designs rooted in versatility and simplicity, most often using word-class diamonds and precious gemstones. Every piece in this exclusive collection was carefully customized to remain in harmony with the colors and patterns of the Atelier Zuhra couture ensemble.
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