What We Are Buying Today: ‘Almugasap’ - Saudi traditional customes

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Updated 26 November 2023
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What We Are Buying Today: ‘Almugasap’ - Saudi traditional customes

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  • Hariry told Arab News: “I have always been motivated to showcase our traditional clothing to the new generation. By adding a modern twist to certain pieces, we aim to encourage them to wear and proudly exhibit our cultural heritage to the world”

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, Almugasap stands as a symbol of tradition and innovation, showcasing the beauty and richness of traditional Saudi culture.

Founded in 2021 by Arief Al-Sherif and Sari Salem Hariry, the brand has quickly become a driving force in reviving and promoting Saudi Arabia’s cultural identity, particularly in thobes, cloaks, and long female gowns that showcase a blend of tradition and modernity.

Specializing in outfits with a traditional flair, each piece is meticulously handcrafted with attention to detail, reflecting a commitment to preserving heritage while embracing the possibilities of the future.

The founders, driven by a deep-rooted love for designing traditional Saudi outfits since their youth, embarked on a journey to create a brand that celebrated the beauty of tradition with a contemporary twist.

Hariry told Arab News: “I have always been motivated to showcase our traditional clothing to the new generation. By adding a modern twist to certain pieces, we aim to encourage them to wear and proudly exhibit our cultural heritage to the world.”

Initially focused on men’s clothing, Almugasap expanded its repertoire with the addition of a women’s line when Reem Esailan joined the team. It captured the essence of Saudi femininity, blending traditional elements with modern silhouettes to create elegant and sophisticated outfits.

The brand also creates accessories, including bags made from bisht material.

Another standout piece is the agal, a traditional headpiece symbolizing Saudi heritage.

Almugasap has also contributed to the actors’ wardrobe in popular series such as “Sefer Berlik.” And the brand has played a vital role in outfitting various plays in Taif, Al-Balad in Jeddah during Ramadan, and AlUla, solidifying its presence in the theater industry.

Recently, it partnered with the Ministry of Culture for the exhibition “Common Ground,” showcasing men’s and women’s outfits celebrating the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia.

Almugasap creations also impressed audiences and the media at the prestigious Red Sea Film Festival.

For updates and more information, visit Instagram at @almugasap.

 


Egypt’s Logina Salah makes history at Miss Universe

Egypt’s Logina Salah makes history at Miss Universe
Updated 29 min 55 sec ago
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Egypt’s Logina Salah makes history at Miss Universe

Egypt’s Logina Salah makes history at Miss Universe

DUBAI: Miss Universe Egypt Logina Salah made history when she broke into the top 30 at the grand finale of the Miss Universe 2024 beauty pageant, held in Mexico City on Sunday, making it the first time her country has made a placement in 73 years.

The glittering night came to a close with Miss Denmark Victoria Kjaer Theilvig taking home the crown — a first for a Dane. The 21-year-old, a competitive dancer, entrepreneur, and aspiring lawyer, beat more than 120 other contestants to win the annual beauty pageant.

Miss Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina was named first runner-up, and Miss Mexico Maria Fernanda Beltran was named the second runner-up. Contestants from Thailand, Bolivia, Venezuela, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Russia, Chile, Canada and Peru also made it to the top 12.

This year’s finale featured a performance by singer Robin Thicke and was hosted by “Saved by the Bell” star Mario Lopez and former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo.

Other contestants from the Middle East and North Africa region included the UAE’s Emilia Dobreva, Bahrain’s Shereen Ahmed, Lebanon’s Nada Koussa, and Iran’s Ava Vahneshan.

The pageant, in its 73rd year, also now sees married women and mothers compete.

“I feel like the world is getting closer to including everybody. It wasn’t allowed for moms to participate, or any woman above 30, and I didn’t like participating in ‘moms pageantry’; I do not like labeling,” Salah, who is based in Dubai, said in an earlier interview with Arab News of the rules that changed in 2023.

She added: “When those restrictions were lifted, I saw it as the perfect opportunity. Pageantry was always on my mind, but I always said, ‘Let me keep it for my daughter, maybe she would be interested.’ I used to dream about it, but now the dream came back to life. I applied, and, thank God, I made it to Miss Universe!”

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Logina Salah (@loginasalah)

Reflecting on her journey with vitiligo, Salah highlighted the power of living as an example. “I do not come every day and talk about vitiligo on my platform, but living my life fearlessly and unapologetically is a message to people,” she said.

“When someone comes across my profile and they see me living fearlessly, this is an inspiration. So, I do both. I like to go out and inspire, not only for people with vitiligo, but for all young girls and women.”


Miss Universe Bahrain Shereen Ahmed wins Voice for Change Silver award in Mexico

Miss Universe Bahrain Shereen Ahmed wins Voice for Change Silver award in Mexico
Updated 16 November 2024
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Miss Universe Bahrain Shereen Ahmed wins Voice for Change Silver award in Mexico

Miss Universe Bahrain Shereen Ahmed wins Voice for Change Silver award in Mexico

DUBAI: Miss Universe Bahrain Shereen Ahmed was announced on Thursday as one of the seven Silver winners of the Voice for Change competition at the 73rd Miss Universe beauty pageant in Mexico.

“This is for all the hardworking single moms out there,” she wrote to her followers on Instagram after the announcement was made.

Joining Ahmed as Silver winners of the Voice for Change competition were Anouk Eman of Aruba, Saran Bah of Guinea, Opal Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand, Matilda Wirtavuori of Finland, Snit Tewoldemedhin of Eritrea, and Raegan Rutty of the Cayman Islands.

 

 

The award was presented after the preliminary round, which featured 126 contestants from around the world showcasing swimsuits, evening gowns, and national costumes.

The Gold winners of the competition were Juliana Barrientos of Bolivia, Ana Gabriela Villanueva of Guatemala, and Davin Prasath of Cambodia.

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Logina Salah (@loginasalah)

 

Besides Ahmed, there are two other Arabs representing their countries: Logina Salah from Egypt and Nada Koussa from Lebanon. Miss Universe UAE is Emilia Dobreva, a Kosovo-born model who has lived in Dubai for 10 years. 

For the National Costume competition, Ahmed donned a flowing green gown featuring gold embellishments and a structured shoulder cape. She also wore a gold headpiece and held a large gold incense burner prop.

 

 

Salah opted for a Cleopatra-inspired ensemble in shades of blue, gold, and bronze, designed by Simeon Cayetano. The cape featured hand-painted pyramids and the Sphinx, framed by protective wings. Hieroglyphic scripts adorned the lower portion of the cape.

Koussa wore a rich purple ensemble with intricate silver embroidery. The outfit included a tall, cylindrical, metallic headpiece and a full-length cape with pronounced shoulders, adorned with leaf-like motifs that extended down the back. The dress underneath was composed of a lighter, shimmery fabric.


Saudi fashion designer and founder of Pavone Shouq Almubarak talks inspiration and innovation

Saudi fashion designer and founder of Pavone Shouq Almubarak talks inspiration and innovation
Updated 15 November 2024
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Saudi fashion designer and founder of Pavone Shouq Almubarak talks inspiration and innovation

Saudi fashion designer and founder of Pavone Shouq Almubarak talks inspiration and innovation
  • ‘My designs are a heartfelt expression,’ says Shouq Almubarak

RIYADH: Saudi fashion designer Shouq Almubarak is dreaming big, both for the Kingdom’s fashion industry and for her own brand, Pavone.  

“The future holds endless possibilities, and I have ambitious plans aligned with the growth of the Kingdom’s fashion industry,” Almubarak told Arab News on the sidelines of Riyadh Fashion Week in October. “I aim to continue expanding my work with larger projects that seamlessly blend authenticity with modern creativity. My ultimate vision is to reach a global audience, sharing the beauty and pride of the Saudi identity.” 

The designer also expressed her gratitude at being selected as one of the designers to represent the Kingdom on a global stage at the event, which took place from Oct. 17 to Oct. 21. 

The designer also expressed her gratitude at being selected as one of the designers to represent the Kingdom on a global stage at the event. (Supplied)

“Being part of Riyadh Fashion Week is a true honor and a moment of immense pride,” she said. “It’s not just about presenting my designs, but about contributing to the rise of Saudi fashion on the global stage. It’s an opportunity to leave my mark and help shape the future of fashion in the Kingdom.” 

Almubarak established Pavone in 2016 in the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia with the aim of creating innovative designs that “meet the ultimate beauty and spirit of modern women.” She told Arab News that much of her inspiration — aside from seeing beautiful things that spark her imagination — comes from within. 

Almubarak established Pavone in 2016 in the Eastern province of Saudi Arabia. (Supplied)

“I draw from moments that leave a lasting impact — whether it’s an emotion, a scene, or just a quiet moment of reflection. I then transform these moments into tangible works of art that capture and reflect the essence of those experiences. My designs are a heartfelt expression,” she said. 

Those “artistic pieces” include her couture collection “Lina,” which she presented at last year’s Riyadh Fashion Week and which she describes as one of her greatest accomplishments as a designer. 

“This collection was a breakthrough for me, as it challenged me to explore new, unconventional ideas,” Almubarak said. “‘Lina’ is more than just a fashion line — it symbolizes the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my career, full of opportunities; a defining moment that has shaped my journey as a designer.” 

Almubarak established Pavone with the aim of creating innovative designs that “meet the ultimate beauty and spirit of modern women.” (Supplied)

The biggest challenge Almubarak has faced so far, she said, is finding partners who not only understand her vision but also share her commitment to exceptional quality. 

“Ensuring that every design was brought to life with meticulous attention to detail and delivering the level of excellence my clients deserve has always been the goal I strive to achieve,” she said. 

Discussing tips for aspiring designers, she said: “My key advice is to prioritize quality; you have to select the right factory and partners. Design isn’t just about the concept — it’s about translating creativity into a finished product with precision and craftsmanship that aligns with the customer’s expectations.” 


Chanel spotlights regional models in campaigns, cruise shows

Chanel spotlights regional models in campaigns, cruise shows
Updated 13 November 2024
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Chanel spotlights regional models in campaigns, cruise shows

Chanel spotlights regional models in campaigns, cruise shows

DUBAI: French luxury fashion house Chanel continues to spotlight regional models in its global campaigns and cruise shows, with its latest release featuring Mona Tougaard. 

The Danish model, of Turkish, Somali, and Ethiopian descent, was seen posing for Chanel’s new holiday campaign. In the image, Tougaard wore Chanel’s “Premiere Edition Original” watch in 0.1-micron yellow gold-plated steel paired with black leather. 

Her look was completed with a choker, ring, and earrings from the brand’s “Camellia” collection, crafted in yellow gold and adorned with diamonds. She also accessorized with bracelets and earrings from the “Coco Crush” line, designed in beige and white gold with diamond accents. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by CHANEL (@chanelofficial)

Meanwhile, French Algerian model Loli Bahia gave fans a sneak peek of the fashion house’s cruise show in Hong Kong on Tuesday through her Instagram account. 

She posted images of herself displayed on a wall, showing off pieces she wore in the show last week. In one shot, she’s styled in classic Chanel fashion, donning a cream crochet jacket layered over an intricate chain and pendant body piece.

In another image, she was seen in a brown leather vest matched with coordinating shorts and ballerina flats. 

French Algerian model Loli Bahia gave fans a sneak peek of the fashion house’s cruise show in Hong Kong on Tuesday through her Instagram account. (Instagram)

Part-Saudi model Shanina Shaik, who has Pakistani, Lithuanian and Australian heritage, promoted Chanel’s beauty line to her 3.4 million Instagram followers.

“All the beautiful products from the holiday glam,” she captioned her story, showcasing an eyeshadow palette, a face palette, a highlighter, along with lip liners and lipsticks.

She also shared a story spraying the limited edition No.5 Eau de Parfum, part of Chanel’s holiday collection.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by CHANEL (@chanelofficial)

In June, Bahia walked the brand’s runway during Paris Fashion Week. She donned a two-piece ensemble comprising a tailored buttoned jacket complemented by a matching knee-length skirt in a delicate tweed fabric.

In May, Bahia and part-Saudi Amira Al-Zuhair walked the Chanel Cruise 2024/2025 show in Marseille, France.

Bahia donned a green ensemble, composed of a knee-length pencil skirt paired with a matching top, layered over a white shirt boasting a hoodie collar, while Al-Zuhair sported a vibrant yellow ensemble featuring hot shorts paired with a button-down top and a coordinating cardigan.


‘I am amplifying our voices,’ Miss Lebanon says ahead of Miss Universe pageant

‘I am amplifying our voices,’ Miss Lebanon says ahead of Miss Universe pageant
Updated 12 November 2024
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‘I am amplifying our voices,’ Miss Lebanon says ahead of Miss Universe pageant

‘I am amplifying our voices,’ Miss Lebanon says ahead of Miss Universe pageant
  • Nada Koussa has a psychology master’s and wants to raise awareness of mental health during conflict
  • Contest is a way for Lebanon to remain ‘visible on the international stage, rather than being marginalized’

DUBAI: Miss Lebanon Nada Koussa is preparing to compete at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico on Nov. 16 and she told Arab News why she is participating while her country is “enduring unimaginable suffering” under Israel’s bombardment.

The Miss Universe competition has contestants from more than 130 countries competing, with Koussa among a handful of candidates from the Middle East.

“Representing Lebanon on the international stage is always important, and it becomes even more crucial in times of crisis,” she said.

The Miss Universe competition has contestants from more than 130 countries competing, with Koussa among a handful of candidates from the Middle East. (Getty Images)

Israel’s attacks on Lebanon have killed more than 3,000 people in the 13 months of fighting along the border, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health on Nov. 5.

“At first, I hesitated, as I felt leaving would mean stepping away from my humanitarian work — supporting displaced individuals and providing psychological aid in schools and shelters.

“However, by participating in the Miss Universe competition, I am amplifying our voices as Lebanese people who are enduring unimaginable suffering,” the contestant explained in a written response from Mexico.

Koussa hails from the village of Rahbeh in Lebanon and has a master’s degree in clinical psychology.

She was crowned Miss Lebanon in July by a judging panel consisting of eight women: actress Razane Jammal, model and fashion blogger Nour Arida, interior designer Diane Ghandour, model and socialite Georgina Rizk, Dr. Petra Khoury, socialite Paola Pharaon Rizk, TV presenter Raya Abirached and restaurateur Mireille Hayek.

Koussa hopes to use the Miss Universe stage to highlight the importance of mental health, especially during times of crisis and conflict.

“Lebanon has endured many hardships, and I am dedicated to raising awareness about the need for psychological support for those affected by trauma,” she explained.

“Since the onset of the conflict, I have focused on providing mental health support to families most impacted, visiting schools to assist both children and adults,” she added.

Koussa joins Miss Egypt Logina Salah and Miss Bahrain Shereen Ahmed from the Arab world. All three are currently in Mexico on a promotional tour before the pageant kicks off this week.

“This is also a way to ensure that Lebanon remains visible on the international stage, rather than being marginalized,” Koussa said.