In a stunning runway show at London Fashion Week in September 2024, Saudi-born, British-raised fashion designer Somy Madani unveiled The Malikat Collection, inspired by the ancient Nabataean queens of AlUla.

“These remarkable women were not only monarchs but also influential leaders, role models, and protectors of their society,” shared Somy.

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Growing up in Medinah, the London-based fashion designer was fascinated by tales of AlUla as a child, dreaming of the day when she could explore its ancient wonders. Fast forward to 2022, and she was finally living that dream.

Her collections reflect her own journey. “I wanted to become a woman who knows her worth, leaves a lasting mark on the world, and is resilient in the face of adversity.”

Amongst attendees were royals, entrepreneurs, influencers, and representatives from Saudi Arabia including Noha Sindi, and angel investor Ibrahim Alqasim.

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The Malikat Collection

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Taking place at the Ham Polo Club, the collection paid homage to the Nabataeans' historical significance while celebrating the modern Saudi woman. “She is a woman who embraces her heritage while forging her own path; a woman who is strong, resilient, and determined to reach for the stars.”

The event kicked off with a polo match, followed by a magical runway show on the field.

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What truly caught my attention while attending the show was Somy’s incorporation of elements from Saudi heritage, such as the traditional Reed headband - Iqal Al Qasab - into contemporary designs, while using luxurious fabrics that reflect the spirit of the modern Saudi woman.

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Prioritising sustainable materials and ethical production methods is also important to Somy.

“Fashion designers are responsible for leading conversations on environmental protection and social responsibility.”

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The Kingdom's ever-growing fashion industry

The fashion scene in Saudi Arabia continues to thrive as a dynamic and evolving landscape that merges traditional influences with contemporary global trends. Thanks to the efforts of the Fashion Commission under the Ministry of Culture, a growing number of Saudi designers are making their mark on the international stage through initiatives like Saudi 100 Brands, which features runway shows at prestigious events such as Paris Fashion Week and Paris Couture Week, along with showrooms and exhibitions in New York City, Milan, and Mexico, to name a few, in addition to the Red Sea Fashion Week.

Last October, the Kingdom held the much-anticipated Riyadh Fashion Week, which took place from October 17-22.

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Aligning with these events, Somy is embarking on a groundbreaking project in Riyadh by 2025, collaborating with esteemed organisations like the Saudi Business Council and other influential institutions.

Expressing appreciation for the Ministry of Culture's efforts to preserve and promote Saudi heritage, Somy shared: “Their unwavering support for designers like myself has been instrumental in creating a thriving fashion industry in Saudi Arabia.”

In the past, fashion shows served as vibrant hubs for networking, collaboration, and forging valuable business connections. Somy’s passion for reviving this spirit and harnessing the transformative power of fashion to drive positive change is ever-evolving through her vision.

Alqasim also shared a few words on the Kingdom's fashion journey: “I envision a future for fashion in Saudi Arabia that is deeply rooted in sustainability and ethical practices.”

"Tonight, as we celebrate fashion, it is impossible not to reflect on the empowerment of Saudi women. Under Vision 2030, women right now are at the forefront of business, culture, creativity, driving forward our nation's progress with an unwavering determination."

@somylondon

images: Cal_the_pixel