Mariam Nihal
Saudi Gazette
Born and raised in the Kingdom, Saudi designer Nora Aldamer, recently won Jeddah Vogue Fashion Experience Award with her collection, Chador. With no former training in the fashion industry, much like other Saudi designers, Aldamer oscillated between Pilates and being a clinical dietician. She finally decided to step into the fashion world and launched her brand in 2013.
On April 20th, Rubaiyat and Vogue Italia came together to provide an international platform for Saudi female fashion designers in Jeddah. Princess Reema Bint Bandar Al Saud, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Italia Franca Sozzani, Naomi Campbell and other fashion enthusiasts attended the event.
Aldamer won the award and several opportunities to display her work internationally. “It was amazing to feel that my hard work is recognized by such a panel of diverse judges with high standards. Having my collection displayed in Rubaiyat is a great pleasure and achievement,” she told Saudi Gazette. “This achievement is the beginning of many more dreams of international exposure especially after graduating from Parson New York and having more time to focus on my brand and reach my goals,” Aldamer added.
When asked about the shift in culture and greater international presence of the younger generation from Saudi Arabia, she said: “A lot has changed lately and the young generation is interested in anything that has to do with art, fashion, music and we use international influence especially with the social media exposure.”
As a designer she aims to meet client expectations and “more to surprise them.” Chador’s Ramadan collection uses a soft palette, with somber tones and detailed beading work. “My brand is focused on keeping the tradition of Middle Eastern woman’s clothing with modern silhouettes. We always keep in mind the young customer when it comes to modern taste and of course functionality is a top priority,” she said. Her latest collection AW16 was inspired by her day-to-day experiences in the Middle East. She said her dream is to make the Kaftan a wardrobe essential. Her current favorite fashion trends are sneakers and a black wool reversible dress. Aldamer will be presenting her collection at Palazzo Morando during Milan Fashion Week in September.
Check out her collection on Instagram @Chador
