A proud Syrian through-and-through, Zina Khair never misses an opportunity to highlight the abundance of talent and creativity that resides in her homeland.
Photo: Belal Ajouz
So deep is Khair’s love for Syrian creatives, that her Dubai home almost serves as a love letter to the nation, doused in vibrant artworks created by some of Syria’s most-loved artists. Now, the fashion entrepreneur, art lover and founder of creative director of Le Marais 101 has taken her dedication to promoting Syrian creatives and their work to the next level with a playful fashion shoot, which she conducted during a visit to Damascus.
“While the world is heading to 2024, there exists an alternate timeline in Damascus,” Zina Khair muses. “A curious phenomenon has gripped the city, effectively freezing it in the 80s and 90s era, creating a captivating blend of nostalgia and modernity. As you traverse the streets of Damascus, you’ll find yourself caught in a time warp where the past and present coexist in a captivating scenery.”
Photo: Belal Ajouz
This clash between the past, present and future reflects strongly in her latest set of photos, which show Khair exploring unconventional nooks of Syria’s capital, from a record store to an old-school hair salon, and a mini grocery store brimming with local treats. Her choice of locations were yet another nod to the unique beauty of Damascus, and further highlight the story behind its charm. In Khair’s words, “Local businesses and markets are equally nostalgic, with shopkeepers peddling goods in storefronts that appear frozen in time. You can stroll through traditional souks where artisans craft wares by hand, preserving ancient traditions that have been passed down for generations. The scent of spices and fresh bread wafts through the air, transporting you to a time when the hustle and bustle of the market was the heart of the city’s life… In a world increasingly dominated by big chain stores and online retailers, these small, independent establishments offer a unique charm and character that is slowly disappearing and simply cannot be replicated. These shops are often run by dedicated individuals who pour their heart and soul into their work. To me they are not just stores; they’re cultural landmarks that enrich our lives and continue to grace our neighborhoods with a taste of uniqueness and nostalgia. These small, unassuming storefronts offer a world of hidden treasures in an era of mass production and uniformity.”
Photo: Belal Ajouz
In each snapshot, Zina Khair styles her look to reflect the mood of her surroundings, picking favorite pieces from Syrian labels like Les Bois de Perle, For The Love Of Syria, Joana Hakki, and of course, elevated handbags from her own Le Marais 101. While one frame sees Khair reading a book in a burnt orange number by Joanna Hakki with rollers in her hair, another catches her looking sharp in a patterned pantsuit surrounded by musical treasures, and a final scene sees carrying a customized Les Bois de Perle handbag while taking in the streets of Damascus. “In this photoshoot, I wanted to highlight the incredible talents and designers of my hometown who blend rich heritage seamlessly into contemporary fashion. Their creations intertwine modern designs with traditional fabrics and patterns, each piece tells a story, connecting wearers to their roots while embracing the spirit of the present. This juxtaposition of old and new, of innovation and tradition, is a vibrant celebration of the enduring power of human creativity and connection, both with the past and with each other.”
While for some, Zina Khair’s latest project may stand out for its interesting fashion, for others, it tells the story of a beautiful land that’s chosen to hold on to the simple joys of the past. Regardless, the aim of her efforts is to acquaint the world with Damascus — “a world of nostalgia, individuality, passion and heartfelt connections.”
Hair and makeup: Milad Hannoun
