This season, Net-a-Porter curated 10 designers’ limited-edition collections — featuring pieces, tailor-made for the Holy Month
Fashion brands across the world have warmed up to the modest-yet-chic power of Ramzan dressing. This season, Net-a-Porter curated 10 designers’ limited-edition collections — featuring pieces, tailor-made for the Holy Month. From Zuhair Murad, Elie Saab and Reem Acra to labels like Erdem, Oscar de la Renta, Safiyaa, Marchesa Notte, Etro, Mary Katrantzou and Jenny Packham each created limited-edition capsule collections for the high-end online retailer. Hijabs have been the key runway story over the last few seasons. Be it Max Mara, Issey Miyake or Vanessa Seward — the Arabic classic’s reinterpretation is a salute to the style-savvy Middle East women, who never compromise on style, no matter what, while keeping their inherent modesty intact.
Also, the June cover of Vogue Arabia, featuring a Saudi princess lounging in the driver’s seat of a red convertible is a strong statement which shows there’s a wind of cultural change that translates into style.
“Meghan Markle is the current poster girl for modesty, who picked a demure Givenchy boat neck wedding gown bringing to mind Audrey Hepburn’s nuptial outfit. Also, I’d like to mention the new Vogue Arabia cover, which has drawn widespread criticism following a string of arrests of women’s rights activists. I definitely see this new wave trickling in terms of fashion,” says stylist Allia Al Rufai.
Think fringed kaftans, beaded maxis and statement capes with visually-arresting headgears. Kaftan queen Pria Kataaria Puri’s latest resort line too complements the Iftaar gaiety. She says, “Having such an incredible exposure in the Middle East, I’m of the view that one could do Ramzan dressing which can be fashionable and of-the-moment at the same time. Dresses with sleeves and maxis are apt if donned with a belt and a matching scarf. Long capes can be teamed with a T-shirt and jeans underneath. I see a lot of people opting for cape-sleeved long blouses paired with palazzo pants and a belt. The blouses also go well with ankle-length skirts. Capelettes can be worn with a sleeveless maxi and it allows you a chance to be chic yet covered-up. Of course, one could play around with interesting jewellery and a statement belt.”
Covered-up can be sexy too
There are so many ways of making a style statement and Arab women have time and again proven this despite being covered from head to toe. Stylist Eshaa Amiin says, “Considering the kind of weather we have, I’d suggest anti-fit maxis, draped tunic and palazzos. It’s great that the hijab has become a cool accessory and it offers so many stylistic variations.”
Kaftan gets funky
Designer Falguni Peacock observes that a lot of her friends in the Middle East host Iftaar parties, which entails statement-making kaftans and jewellery. She states, “The kaftan is getting funkier — with deeper necklines, belts and feathers. ”
Opt for breathable fabrics
Designer Surily G suggests investing in cottons and linens. “A pair of cropped pants with a striped shirt looks fab. Even a PJ-inspired look can be amplified to advantage. For a night out, opt for satin separates or a wrap jacket with a pair of trousers,” she adds.
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 "Ramzan style")
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