Emirati Elan

Lottie Mungavin / 12 July 2012

The lively atmosphere of The Dubai Mall was a fitting setting for the fifth Sheila and Abaya Fashion Show, which is the only fashion event aimed specifically at the Sheila and Abaya market.

The event showcased the creations of two designers from 3abaya.com, a website that promises one-of-a-kind Islamic couture delivered to your doorstep. The show saw Hessa Falassi for Nabraman and Huda Malaak blend traditional Arabic culture with international influences.

The Nabraman collection was classically elegant with the contemporary twist that Hessa Falassi has become known for. Flashes of vivid colour and all manner of bows, sashes, ruffles and ruching highlighted the individuality of the Pre-Fall collection.

Though Falassi always aims to incorporate “a touch of everyone” into her designs, her particular inspiration for this collection was the fashion-conscious Arab woman. Through combining luxurious fabrics with unique details, Falassi has created a stylish and sophisticated collection that all women will feel like “stars” in.

Huda Malaak, a new designer for the online store, which caters to the independent modern woman, displayed creations that were both fun and fashionable. Tropical patterns, iridescent materials and even a shorter length abaya, boldly slashed to the knee, highlighted the flirtatious mood of this collection, which was inspired by the spirit of summer.

Undoubtedly, the highlight of the show was Malaak’s final piece, a romantic creation of black lace that was gathered at the waist. The piece was inspired by the 1800s and Malaak divulged that this was a “taster” of her next collection, which, judging by the audience’s rapturous response, has the potential to be an even bigger hit for the up-and-coming designer.