Secret Saudi: 5 Concept Stores Putting KSA Talent On The Global Map
As the world continues to discover a stream of creativity from The Kingdom, we reveal some of the coolest regional shops that need to be on your radar
Homegrown Market
Home to some of the most stylish budding Arab brands in the region, Homegrown Market is dotted with colourful items across fashion, beauty, home and food. When it first launched in 2014, it was already a bustling space with 12 labels under its belt.
Today, it houses over 150 brands from the region, successfully nurturing not just a store, but a creative community. Shoppers will find elegant abayas and kaftans by FJ Design, multicoloured face masks by Kamami, organic Japan-inspired tea by MaChii, among many other keepsakes.
Like neighbouring concept stores in the Kingdom, Homegrown’s biggest goal is to highlight deserving Arab talent to an international audience by providing a space to flourish away from home. It’s no surprise that some of these brands have gone on to launch their very own flagship stores.
Eastway Market
Characterised by feminine tones, floral-print dinnerware and colourful cotton dresses, Eastway Market transports shoppers to a fantasy world of fashion and home décor.
Our top picks include a traditional Chinoiserie vase filled with vibrant spring flowers inspired by de Gournay wallpapers, an elegant candleholder designed for the fashionable hostess and a brand-new tableware set by Farah Tajeddin, the founder of Riyadh-based art-themed dining society, The First Supper.
Beige
Taking its cue from dreamy archways, oud scents and tones of sand, Khobar-based Beige is made for the modern, independent Saudi woman. From skincare, jewellery and accessories to clothing and perfume, the curated space is redefining the traditional luxury shopping experience.
Kaftans by Joli Design, as well as abayas by Samar and Hurof are some pieces that take centre stage in fashion, while the sleeping pillow mist by vegan, cruelty-free brand Mama’s Alchemy, and hair mist and Black Oud eau de parfum by NooN Perfumes steal the show in self-care and fragrance.
Life
Situated in Jeddah’s Roshana Mall and Nojoud Mall in Riyadh, as its name suggests, this space was born out of an innate appreciation for life. Partners of Saudi Style Council, the lifestyle store’s ethos is one of determination and belief in local creativity.
The featured women’s and men’s clothing is eclectic, humorous, quirky and imaginative, with a mission to bring out the ‘cool’ in each visitor. Famed for its commitment to diversity, personal style and emerging designers, Life is all about joie de vivre and celebrating the child within us. Henrik Vibskov, Selfmade and Maison Mihara Yasuhiro are just a few names in store.
Personage
Spearheaded by Her Royal Highness Princess Deemah Bint Mansour, Personage exists as a platform determined to develop and support the regional landscape of Saudi designers as well as global relationships between creators, artists, designers and innovators.
A sensorial experience in the heart of Riyadh, the space is an interactive home for the businessperson, artist and student alike.
Known to be one of the first concept stores in the region, this is where Saudis come to celebrate interests, identities, and nurture creative conversations. Set across three levels, the multipurpose concept store doubles as a café, gallery, creative studio and a bespoke event space.
On the first floor visitors will find a range of streetwear, accessories, perfumery, home and lifestyle products by emerging and established Saudi designers such as RealSelf, Mazrood, and Ragail Jewellery, alongside international streetwear names Stüssy, China Town Market and Carhartt.
The store is set within a rugged, industrial-style space with a variety of ‘zones’, each unified through accents of greenery and bold lighting features, while the other floors are fit for a range of occasions from exhibitions and workshops to events and work meetings.
Images sourced from respective Instagram accounts and brands
From Harper’s Bazaar Saudi Summer 2021 Issue.