Reema Al-Shubaily On How Her Mother Has Been Her Ultimate Source of Inspiration
The Saudi designer grew up in a fashion loving home, deciding to follow in her mother’s footsteps and create an abaya brand in Aseel’s name. Here, the mother-daughter duo exchange letters in honour of their special relationship
The bond between a mother and daughter is a magical connection that is unique to every one of us, but sometimes, life gets in the way of expressing how inspired we are by each other. To celebrate Mother’s Day, Harper’s Bazaar Saudi asked six women to write letters of love to give thanks to one of the most important women within their lives.
Aseel Al Zamil to Her Daughter, Reema Al-Shubaily
My soulmate, my sweetheart, my friend and my inspiration, we are so lucky to share the same passion and to work in the same field. I gave birth to you when I was just a university student, and from there, we grew up together. You can’t imagine my happiness as I witness the achievements you make at every step you take. I still remember the pride I felt when you were selected by the Misk Foundation to represent Saudi Arabia abroad – meeting those prominent French designers to tell them about your work, and our trip to Paris last year when we attended the fashion week shows and created so many fond memories together.
Despite our work in the same industry, I feel proud to see your creative designs and nuances differ from mine. I admire your adventurous character and your love of beauty. I believe that your designs perfectly represent you, which makes me wear every one of your pieces like a badge of honour. I am so proud of you, and see in you a great, independent woman, capable of achieving all her goals. You are a blessing to everyone around you, spreading joy and kindness wherever you go. There is no real shortcut to success, but finding your own path is the best part of the journey, so celebrate your achievements no matter how big or small they are. Be strong, Reema, be inspiring and be happy – because you are the light and inspiration for all those around you.
Reema Al-Shubaily And Her Mother, Aseel Al Zamil
Reema Al-Shubaily To Her Mother, Aseel Al Zamil
You are the candle that lights up my life, you have been my sister ever since my childhood and I’m so grateful to you and my grandmother, Fatima Al-Bassam, for helping me become the person I am today. Although our personalities are different, we share a love of fashion, something I acquired as I grew up observing you and my grandmother add a touch of elegance and class to my everyday look. I am inspired by your charisma and your unyielding generosity. I love your calm and patient nature, and the way you taught me that sky is the limit for learning and development. You nourished my self- confidence and strength, ensuring that I become an independent and self-reliant person.
You’ve been my champion, my supporter, and my partner in all the defining moments of my life. I recall when we both were selected to represent Saudi designers in Paris, your presence next to me was the greatest gift of all. You are always my first inspiration, and I’m lost for words to describe the happiness and pride I feel when you wear one of my designs and I feel joy when I wear one of yours, your artistry highlighting the sophistication, elegance and femininity of the women wearing your clothes. Thank you for being a source of beauty and positivity in my life, encouraging me to move forward and always pushing me to be compassionate and understanding towards others around me. I love you so much, and you will always be my refuge and strength in this life.
As part of the series, Harper’s Bazaar Saudi also asked Yara Alnamlah and her Mother, Amani Al-Ayed, along with Ghalia Mahmoudi and Najla Zaini to each share letters of their own.
Photography: Abdullah Al Musharraf and Haneen Majdy.
Aseel and Reema are wearing Aseel collection and Chatila jewellery.
From Harper’s Bazaar Saudi March 2021 Issue