(Handout to DNE)
According to the oldest rules of fashion worldwide, trends change every six months. However, the current decade has successfully created a much faster cycle, which is capable of introducing new trends every other week.
Through this hectic and constant change, one trend managed to establish a true solid platform. The traditional Japanese garment, the Kimono, found its way into each Egyptian wardrobe three years ago.
“It is untraditional and very different from the usual hijabi style. It is also suitable for all ages and styles which makes it both different and trendy,” said Hagar Ghareeb, a local fashion designer who specialises in kimonos.
Ghareeb started designing kimonos in 2013, when the idea was still revolutionary to the Egyptian market. At that point Ghareeb’s ready to wear brand, Arabian Princess, was a haven for trendy hijabis in Egypt.
As a veiled woman, no one could understand the needs of hijabis more than Ghareeb herself.
“I prefer kimonos because they are comfortable and diverse in terms of colours and prints. They can also be styled in many different ways. Kimonos are currently the main boho-chic trend for the third year in a row,” Ghareeb explained.
(Handout to DNE)
Arabian Princess’s designs celebrate the brand’s Arabian culture, through reinterpreting traditional prints. Their garments mainly depend on their avant-garde prints and vibrant colours.
“We import most of our fabrics from Italy and Dubai. Nonetheless, lately we started customising our own patterns.” Ghareeb added “For this year’s collection, we implemented our handmade patterns on the fabrics for the first time.”
The authentic brand defines itself as the most comfortable and modern locally.
“It is not easy to maintain our Arabic persona, which is why we constantly carve our way into the design world by doing endless researches to see the latest trends. I believe it is worth it,” Said Ghareeb.
Arabian Princess’s garments are designed by the Ghareeb sisters, Hagar and Chayma. The two sisters are not only in love with fashion, they also come from a family with a great talent.
“My grandmother was the main reason we got into this industry, as she was a celebrity designer. Her designs were worn by Laila Mourad and Zbaida Tharwat,” said Ghareeb.
Hagar has always been a fashion lover, as she enjoyed dressing her Barbies like any other growing designer. But it was not until graduating in 2011 that she decided to pursue a career in her grandmother’s world.
(Handout to DNE)
The Ghareeb sisters work hand-in-hand to bring their vision to life.
“It is awesome to have your sister as a partner. It helps in choosing colours and patterns. We usually share our ideas and inspirations together then we select the strongest,” said Ghareeb.
The brand has been the choice of many stars including Esaad Youness, which is the sister’s favourite. However, the duo dreams of dressing other women such leading ladies as Jordan’s Queen Rania and Qatar’s Sheikha Moza.
“We aim to establish branches around the Middle East countries within the next five years, and I would also love to see Arabian Princess go international. It would be really delightful to see American and European women wearing our designs,” concluded Ghareeb.
