A New Narrative: Marriam Mossalli Introduces The ‘Najdi Six’ And How The Group Of Emerging Talent Is Setting The Tone For Style
A new narrative by contributing fashion editor Marriam Mossalli explores the local talent in Saudi and draws parallels with the Antwerp Six
Rewind…
12 years. A group of young, ambitious women have just become the first graduates of what would become known as Saudi’s fashion design factory of unapologetic, bold talent. The Arts and Skills Institute in Riyadh, in its humble beginnings, did something that even the best international schools have a hard time manifesting: it retained its local point of view.
Moushi by Mashael al Faris. Courtesy of mahalatkom.com
“Arts and Skills was the first institution that taught pattern cutting and sewing as part of a bachelor’s degree in fashion design,” reveals former instructor, Hind Bahammam. “By focusing on the technical aspects of fashion design, it allowed the designers to communicate an unbiased narrative that was truly their own.”
Fast forward two years and another 2009 graduate, designer Reem Alkanhal, is being worn by the likes of Man Repeller and local style icon, Princess Deena Aljuhani at New York Fashion Week. Almost a decade later, and I’m wearing Reem Alkanhal for my Khatooba.
Today, Reem is having a literal revival of her classics that are coveted by both empowered women and young teenagers wanting to dress as cool as its stunning founder.
With names like Haifa Ibrahim and Haifa Fahad – a brand by Princess Haifa bint Fahad Alsaud, that to this day is the go-to for formal outerwear, also known as the decadent abaya, these graduates become comparable to the Antwerp Six. Or, in our case, the Najdi Six.
DAZLUQ by Salma Zahran Suit-Up collection, 2021
Mashael Alrajhi’s talent made her one of the first Saudi labels to collaborate with an international sportswear brand, namely Nike. Nora Al Shaikh made a name with her style of deconstructed fashion. Mashael al Faris’ MOUSHI brand was one of the first, and today is still a favourite with its ultra-feminine gowns that empower rather than constrict the wearer – a trend that many young Saudi females can appreciate with their much more active roles in Saudi society.
DAZLUQ by Salma Zahran’s Summer Plan collection, 2019
Ten years on from that first graduating class, we have a new wave of young talent; some self-taught, others educated abroad or in one of the many options now available in the Kingdom. Enter DAZLUQ by Salma Zahran, a graduate of Miami International University of Art & Design. Her brand aims to “set the tone for fashion in the region.”
Laith by Dar Al-Hekma University graduate and conceptual designer, Jalila Nayil, is luxury slow fashion in its purest form. Having showcased at NYFW and recently opened her first solo boutique, Laith is a minimalistic brand redefining how locals interpret luxury fashion.
DAZLUQ by Salma Zahran Suit-Up collection, 2021
Not to mention Future Institute, Jeddah’s Arts and Skills counterpart. A soft-spoken talent with bold design gets on the radar of every young fashionista. Her name is Malak Ahmed and her designs are innovative in their construction, and for those of us who remember the excitement of the Najdi Six, they incite a welcomed nostalgia.
ART’- by KAF BY KAF, the brainchild of Kawthar Alhoraish, represents Saudi’s newest wave of contemporary brands. The aesthetic mirrors one that is quickly becoming synonymous with homegrown talent, and that is one of innovation embedded in Saudi heritage. KAF BY KAF creates structured fashion decorated with unique patterns that are inspired by her KSA homeland.
The one thing all these new designers have in common is a readiness to own their narrative through thoughtful design, a concept that was no doubt pioneered by the Najdi Six.
Images courtesy of respective brands and Yelssings Photography.
From Harper’s Bazaar Saudi Summer 2021 Issue.