Egyptian label Mamzi’s newest collection pays homage to traditional Saudi art form
Al-Qatt Al-Asiri is a traditional art form deeply rooted within the identity of the southern region in Saudi Arabia and is practiced exclusively by women. Billed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, the art form involves decorating the interiors of the home with geometric shapes and tribal symbols. Al-Qatt Al-Asiri also served as the starting point for Egyptian designer Mariam Abdelghany’s newest collection of tailored separates for her ready-to-wear label Mamzi.
“(Al-Qatt Al-Asiri) is an extremely inspirational, authentic art that opened my mind in a way that helped me create unique pieces,” Abdelghany said.
The designer, who established her label in 2014, admits she was drawn to it from the moment she saw it at an event in Saudi Arabia.
“There was an old woman painting Asiri art, and from that moment I was hooked on it,” she adds.
The designer’s new collection has been in the making for nearly two years, mostly because “Al-Qatt Al-Asiri needs to be given time, patience and commitment in order to create something that would do it justice as it is incredibly unique and involves many colors,” Abdelghany explains.
“I wanted to showcase it in a modern way that would also represent the vision that I see for my brand.”
To create the 18-piece collection, Abdelghany used embroidered and printed fabrics. She also used handcrafted khayameya embroidery shaped specifically for Asiri art to add an authentic touch.
The collection features a line-up of tailored separates, including skirts, blouses, jumpsuits and trousers that are each crafted with the geometric designs.
Comments are closed.