Fatima Muhammad

Saudi Gazette

 

A newly launched Saudi fashion brand has created a unique identity merging the tradition of different regions of the GCC and with a modern twist. 



The founder of the new fashion brand, Manal Al-Habboubi, is an interior architect and a fashion designer who shaped a digital character created by Saudi artist Sakna Hassan, called named “Hamsa” (whisper). The character represents a young female from the GCC and is used to mark fashion and home accessories of Al-Habboubi.



Hamsa’s face is hidden behind a traditional golden Burka (veil), which covers two thirds of the face, and is popular in number of GCC states.



The idea came to Al-Habboubi’s when she was studying fashion design in Italy. She realized an absence of tradition in today’s fashion and even home accessories. When she came back to Dahran, where she currently lives and works, Al-Habboubi started to take her thoughts seriously. “I have not yet employed assistants, I am still doing the work on my own, as I design, choose fabrics, and then negotiate with tailors.”



She came up with her own fashion line where she used traditional styles giving them a modern twist. Aside from the materials representing different regions of the GCC states, “Hamsa” is now printed on cups, cushions, jewelry boxes, mobile covers, t-shirts, sweaters, notebooks, among other accessories.



The first collection of Hamsa was launched last Ramadan with the character dressed up in traditional GCC clothes, with Arabic calligraphy used to décor the works on display.



Al-Habboubi is now dressing her character with new styles that will resemble traditional Hijazi clothing with phrases depicting traditional idioms and songs. In the future, Hamsa will be put on Asiri clothes inspired by the southern region of the Kingdom.



Al-Habboubi described her work as “fantasia” describing her character, which symbolizes her idea of Barbie. “I have chosen to hide the face to emphasize the beauty of Hamsa. This veil appealed to me more than others.”



Hamsa has generated positive feedback after participating in number of local and regional fashion shows and exhibitions.



Hamsa products are available now at Desert Designs Shop and Leo’s Boutique in AlKhobar, with future plans to expand all around the Kingdom and GCC countries.



Prices for fashion pieces are around SR900 and SR1300 whereas home collection pieces are priced between SR50 and SR450.



Instagram @hamsa_by_mhab