JEDDAH – John Galliano once said: “That's what I'm working for. The couture house of the future.” Amused by his concept and genius work of art in the world of couture, an Emirati girl created her own dream brand “MALAAK,” which was launched in May 2010. Creative director Huda Al Nuaimi told Saudi Gazette: “I had just got back from London College of Fashion. I was in need of some Abayas but I wanted something that suited my sense of style.” So she decided to work on a collection exercising her knowledge to revamp the Abaya. “I launched my initial collection that year and fast forward two years and six collections, we have gained international recognition and credibility in the market.” If you thought couture was an idealistic concept fixated with only red carpet dresses and affairs, well you were wrong. If there is anything closely related to couture and Abayas – it is MALAAK. MALAAK offers couture in the form of Abayas, dresses and their signature turbans. Prices range between AED 600-1500 for turbans and AED 2000-6000 for Abayas. She is looking to expand the range of Abaya's, dresses and turbans to focus on a more regional and international presence of the brand. This year will showcase two main seasons, SS13 and FW13 and the resort collection. The seasons vary with SS13 being a soft and flowy collection and FW13 being bolder with wools, tartan and hardware. The Arab fashion scene, more so evolution of the Abaya has developed rapidly in the past few years. Huda said: “As the world develops, so do our countries, technology and people and therefore so should the Abaya. There is so much more understanding and education to the importance of garment making and fashion in the region, hence you have seen a complete revamp of the silhouette of the Abaya in the past five years. Women are more fashion and brand conscious and really want their clothes to reflect their lifestyle.” With all MALAAK collections, each season brings a new edgy twist to the Abaya. “My direction as a designer is to always create a statement by merging the latest trends and fabrics in a way that works. “I really love to play with new patterns, taking it a step forward, challenging the norm and really creating unique edgy pieces that compliment a women's figure. I design a Abaya that makes them look unique, beautiful and compliments their lifestyle. Personally, I believe the Abaya you wear is just as important as the bag you carry.” The education of couture techniques and the education of garment making has managed to take the ‘Abaya' from a simple A-line cut to the new mainstream Abaya. “This has gained international presence and respect in the fashion world.” When asked what completes the look, she said: “I believe it all depends on the style of the Abaya. With any styling, it is important to first wear a piece that compliments your figure and personality. When accessorizing I always follow the saying ‘less is more' with regards to your outfit. Keep it as a one-statement piece with complimenting bag and shoes, not overdoing it with many statement pieces as it becomes too busy to the eye. It is very much about merging pieces that work together.” Talking about her favorite designers, she said: “I would love to collaborate with an international designer John Galliano, one of my favorites, he is the king of the catwalk. We have pretty amazing designers in the region, as well as up and coming, which makes me so proud. I would love to dress Daphne Guiness and Rihanna who are both my muses.” Huda said life, fashion, fabrics, culture and women are a few of the many factors that influence a designer. “But what is important is to narrow those inspirations each season into one theme to get the best out of the collection that remains unique to the season.” Every one has a favorite. We asked MAlAAK about hers. “I have a favorite from each season. FW11 was the MALAAK piece, SS12 was Dalia and Gardenia, FW12 Throne & Scandal.” She added: “One thing you are guaranteed when wearing MALAAK is to make a statement.” MALAAK showrooms are in Jumeirah, Symphony, Dubai Mall, SAKS Fifth Avenue and will soon be in the Kingdom.
