Mariam Nihal

Saudi Gazette

 

SAUDI women are known for making fashion statements worldwide, and during Ramadan, it becomes a matter of national pride. The new generation of Arab fashion designers provide an ultra funky, yet smoothly traditional essence to the regular accessories and traditional garments.



It is where the past meets the future. Bazaars are synonymous with Ramadan. The biggest bazaars are held yearly, which of course also help raise money for charity. Hundreds of thousands are spent every year during Ramadan and Eid on local high-end fashion brands, accessories, trendy and traditional wear for the family.



Many young and upcoming fashion designers stick to the immortal style of ethnic yet contemporary thobes and abayas. Many Saudi female designers have launched exclusive jalabiya’s, turbans, jewelry lines, abayas and fashionable accessories.



Modern day abayas are far removed from the plain black robes worn in the past and are a combination of an evening gown or a dress that makes a statement. Thobes are designed for mothers and daughters, with various other themes that are designed for the special month.



Brands like HANIA by Hania Albarikan, LUM by Lama Taher, Ta Marbota by Rawan Azhar, Bedia, Libra Boutique, Sassy Design, Jungle Blue, Earth and Spirit by Eman Joharjy, Farah Collection, Emona Fashion, Rana Ismail, Muna Abual Faraj, Sotra, Nawal by Nawal Al Maimani and Cream, among many more participate in the festive season by adding extraordinary Ramadan editions to their labels.



Bazaars are synonymous with Ramadan, as they get more intense during this time of the year. Women in particular participate at Ramadan bazaars that are set up in different hotels, exhibition centers, philanthropic societies and homes across the Kingdom. Recent events that were held at private locations were Tashkeil’s pre-Ramadan bazaar, Wardrobe by Nour Kelani and Sarah B and Dolly by Dalia Darwish among others. The nature of Bazaars is different and varies depending on its location but prices are said to be the highest during this time of the year where Saudi women tend to spend the most.



Bisat Al Reeh (Magic Carpet Festival) is a yearly traditional Ramadan festival that runs from July 14-18 at Jeddah Center for Forums and Events, showcasing a variety of products such as fashion, jewelry, accessories, food and household goods among many others.



It is held every year and serves as a meeting place for Saudi businesswomen, those who run small privately owned businesses, charity organizations participating from all over the Kingdom and other buyers or like-minded individuals.



The first festival was held in Jeddah in 2000, and since its launch it has been an important event in the city’s calendar.



Another popular bazaar, “Grand Bazaar” is held at the Hilton. The bazaar features access to accessories, cosmetics, jewelry, abayas, jalabiyas, toys, handicrafts, cars, event planning, food and even healthcare or clinics among many others.



The events give women a chance to get together, prepare for Eid and are a source of entertainment during the month.



Much like Eid, locals and the millions of expats living in Saudi Arabia celebrate Ramadan, during which much emphasis is upon sharing and magnifying the art of giving.