PARIS — Saudi fashion designer Alia Al-Salmi has achieved widespread fame with her artistic vision that embodies Saudi heritage, showcased through her designs for the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024. Her modern yet heritage-inspired creations touched the hearts of a global audience, making her a symbol of elegance and cultural pride. Al-Salmi expressed her gratitude on the X platform, stating, "I extend my sincere thanks for the opportunity to share my goal, which is to express my pride and appreciation for my country by presenting modern designs inspired by Saudi heritage. These designs aim to keep pace with the latest international trends, enhance our identity, ensure its continuity for future generations, and convey our culture to the world." She further added "The opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024 reinforces our goal of highlighting our rich culture and heritage through this global forum, introducing the international community to Saudi culture." The costumes for the Saudi team at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony were adorned with traditional drawings and engravings that reflect Saudi Arabia's ancient history. Al-Salmi's creativity was recognized after she was selected from among 128 designers to execute the Saudi Olympic mission's costumes, chosen for her vision and ability to blend heritage elements with innovative modern touches. The Saudi delegation shone in traditional Saudi attire, with male athletes wearing the bisht and shemagh, and female athletes donning the abaya. These outfits featured drawings and engravings that reflect Saudi Arabia's rich heritage and cultural identity. Al-Salmi said: "Our Kingdom is distinguished by its cultural diversity, with each region having its own unique touches and charm in its clothing. Among these regions, I chose the patterns of the Nashal dress with its bright golden color from the Eastern Province, the Kurta from the Central Province, and the head coverings from various regions of Saudi Arabia." The Nashal dress, a renowned traditional costume in Saudi Arabia, is characterized by fine embroidery and luxurious gold decorations. Its history dates back hundreds of years, traditionally worn on special occasions such as weddings and celebrations. Made from luxurious fabrics like silk and cotton, the dress symbolizes luxury and elegance, embodying pride and honor in authentic Saudi traditions, making it a piece of heritage art passed down through generations. For the men's outfit, Al-Salmi chose to combine the thobe and bisht, explaining, "The men's outfit is shared by Saudi men, consisting of the thobe and bisht, with the white color chosen." The thobe and bisht are traditional costumes for men in Saudi Arabia, with the bisht made of wool or silk, symbolizing luxury and prestige. The Saudi dress worn by the country's representatives during the parade of participating nations at the 33rd Olympic Games in Paris garnered admiration from the international audience. Most attendees applauded the Saudi athletes as they entered the Seine River, appreciating their traditional attire and cultural representation.
