Samah Khashoggi On Being The First Designer To Showcase Her Work On A Saudi Cruise Ship

The Saudi-based creative exhibited twenty-two pieces from her collection onboard the ship, all inspired by the wonders of Red Sea

Successfully executing the first fashion show of its kind within the Kingdom, Samah Abayas by Samah Khashoggi has made a huge stride in the Saudi fashion world with their beachside fashion presentation. Samah spoke to Bazaar‘s Arabic Editor, Khulood Ahmed, about her journey, creative process and what’s next for her brand, having recently made waves at sea

Harper’s Bazaar Arabia (HBA): You’re the first designer to showcase their collection on a Saudi Cruise. Can you describe the experience, in your own words?

Samah Khashoggi (SK): I am the first designer to showcase their collection on a Saudi Cruise, and I am so honoured to be a part of this exciting time. I know that I won’t ever forget this, being a part of this historic moment for Saudi fashion means a lot to me because it shows a good sign of things to come.

HBA: Can you tell us a little bit about how this show came about?

SK: The talented Marriam Mossalli and her team at Niche Arabia reached out to me and I fell in love with the idea, so we worked together and made this dream come true, producing a world-class event by all standards. Niche Arabia has my respect and support because of their displays of professionalism and collaboration. I look forward to working with their creative team again.

HBA: What does this show mean to you?

SK: I think it’s every designer’s dream to see their work on the runway, and for me to realize this aspiration in my country while making history as the first female designer to do it means the world to me.

The Red Sea cruise is something we’ve never seen before- neither have we seen a seaside runway, so for Samah Abayas, being a part of this wonderful event is a milestone in the fashion line’s story.

HBA: What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in the past 10 years?

SK: Everyone has their passions, some will turn those passions into success, but only a few will continue to be devoted to that success. Commitment to one’s craft is the most important lesson, because when you consistently work hard overcoming obstacles will become second nature to you and not a barrier to your success.

HBA: How do you think your brand has evolved throughout the years?

SK: Samah Abayas has grown to be a couture brand, one that has built its identity over time. Recognized by the Saudi society for our elegant cut and unique embroidery, and if you think of what the abaya was 10-20 years ago, it was something very basic.

I remember a time where you couldn’t tell the difference between abayas from two different places, which is why the identity I’ve built for Samah Abayas is so significant, for someone to look at the abaya and see my signature touch.

HBA: How would you best describe the collection and what would you say was the inspiration behind it?

SK: The collection is inspired by the Red Sea and all its beauty. I drew inspiration from the famous coral, expressing all of the colours you’ll discover under the sea. I’d say that I enjoyed exploring my imagination when designing this collection because there were a lot of areas to explore, like the shades of blue, seashells or even the different creatures you’d find in the ocean.

For example, one design was a magnificent white abaya paired with a clear sequence. It was completely inspired by fish scales and what I envisioned a mermaid would wear stepping out of the water.

HBA: Can you share with us any insight into the creative process behind creating the collection?

SK: The collection required meticulous attention to detail and long, consecutive hours at work. The abayas were hand-embroidered, using the traditional ‘nagda’ technique which you can see on the masterpiece coral abaya with rose gold threads.

HBA: Where do you see your brand in the next 10 years?

SK: If you told me last year that I would be having my first fashion show by the Red Sea on a Saudi cruise, I wouldn’t have believed you. If this opportunity has taught me anything it’s to dream big and continuously work towards that goal, so in 10 years time, I see Samah Abayas having a global presence.

Images supplied.