When craftsmanship, culture, and art meet, it’s history in the making. Such as the showcase of Amal Al Raisi’s Spring/Summer ’24 Collection at the iconic Oman Across Ages Museum. Thus, history was made when the first ever fashion show was held at the exquisite edifice on October 14, 2023.
The remarkable museum with its unique architecture and interiors played a key role in providing a surreal experience to the show. Held under the umbrella of the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Youth and co-conducted with Dar Al Herfya, the Amal Al Raisi SS’24 – ‘An Authentic Journey To Oman’ show featured 40 designs proving to be a spectacular visual treat to the guests.
Taking place in the longest aisle of the Museum, the show was attended by dignitaries, prominent public figures from Oman, regional & local influencers, and Amal’s clients as well as regional media.
‘‘It was an honour and a dream come true to showcase my SS24 Collection at the Oman Across Ages Museum (OAAM). Reflecting the Omani heritage in my Collection is the USP of my brand; so presenting my collection inspired by the precious Omani history in a location where the valued Omani history is preserved was truly an honour. It was an absolute pleasure working with OAAM and I would personally like to thank them and our sponsors SoharInternational, Omantel, Mohsin Haider Darwish, Marsoliel, Ministry of Heritage & Tourism, SMEs Development Authority for all their support,” said Amal Al Raisi, the Founder and Creative Director of the brand. The show also marked the launch of Amal Al Raisi’s Fashion Design Graduate Program sponsored by Sohar International.
The Spring Summer 24 Collection is an ode to the rich history of Oman, inspired by Oman’s maritime history which opened the doors to trade with different nations. The Sabaiya is a type of weaving in Oman, made by hand using traditional techniques from local materials such as wool and cotton. Famous for being used in making traditional clothes and fabrics in Oman for men and women, this type of weaving reflects the cultural and craftsmanship heritage of the Omani people, and is an important part of the local culture in the region.
Sabaiya arrived in Oman through historical trade and cultural exchange with other regions in the Middle East and South Asia. Oman shared ancient trade networks that connected different regions of the world, and this led to the transfer of cultures, technologies, and skills between people. Over the centuries, Oman was an important port on the southern coast of the Arabian Sea and was involved in trade with India, China, the Arabian Peninsula, North Africa, and other regions. Through the flow of trade and culture, textile techniques related to the Sabaiya reached Oman and became a part of its cultural and craft heritage.
Today, Dar Al Herfya has a major role in preserving and developing Oman’s rich handicraft skills by supporting the families of the existing craftsmen and craftswomen across the Sultanate. In collaboration and guidance of Dar Al Herfya, a modern take on the Sabiaya is created and used throughout the SS24 Collection. The collection beautifully incorporates Sabaiya capturing timeless elegance through fluid fabrics, contemporary silhouettes, and feminine details. The collection also features intricate hand embroidery on an ethereal colour palette of soft luxurious silks and crepe chiffons. The silhouettes are dreamy featuring elegant layers and soft ruffles. The show ended featuring contemporary traditional designs with a modern twist embellished with Amal’s signature embroidery elements.