Latest news with #FashionTrustArabia
Campaign ME
3 days ago
- Business
- Campaign ME
Harrods extends partnership with Fashion Trust Arabia to champion cultural authenticity
The luxury industry has evolved from being just a glamorous lifestyle, and has evolved into deeper experiences in which culture, localisation and intimate offerings are a make or break for brands. In light of this, Harrods is extending their partnership with Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) in which MENA designers will be platformed through in-store displays with activations that will support customer journeys. 'At Harrods, we view our buying strategy not merely as product curation but as cultural storytelling. Our continued collaboration with Fashion Trust Arabia stems from a shared belief in the power of emerging talent to redefine global luxury,' says Simon Longland, Director of Buying – Fashion at Harrods. This partnership reflects a growing trend in retail where authentic representation and strategic localisation intersect. As customers seek out designs that speak to identity, heritage and nuance, brands are responding by broadening their sourcing lens to reflect a wider cultural spectrum – and rethinking what luxury looks and feels like. As shared previously to CampaignME, Pauline Rady, Regional Managing Director – Client Lead at WPP Media MENA, said, 'Today's luxury customers throughout the region have a complex form of cultural identity, social aspiration, and personal satisfaction.' Sharing the sentiment, Longland adds, 'In an industry where similarity is not uncommon, cultural authenticity is what differentiates and defines. The FTA designers bring forward a unique design language rooted in their heritage. What makes this collaboration especially powerful is that it doesn't dilute those identities to fit into a mould – it celebrates them. At Harrods, we recognise that today's luxury consumer is curious, informed, and global; regional representation is not only welcome, it's essential.' From July 2025 onwards, Harrods will become home to the collections of four newly crowned FTA Prize winners. This partnership speaks to a larger industry trend in which, brands like Harrods are uplifting creative voices whilst creating e-commerce storytelling activations. Longland explains that their goal is twofold: they are aiming to create meaningful moments of discovery through storytelling, pairing localised narratives with luxury retail experiences. Collectively this will support commercial opportunities for the designers and a cultural, localised experience for consumers. In addition to retail support, Harrods will play an active role in FTA's mentorship programme. Clemmie Harris, Head of Buying – Contemporary, Sport & Essentials at Harrods, will lead a specialist session titled 'Product Merchandising – Building a Range Plan', offering strategic insights into assortment curation and commercial storytelling. This partnership isn't just uplifting new talent, it's setting a benchmark for what the next era of luxury looks like: personal, rooted, and culturally resonant.
Fashion Network
21-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Network
Harrods unveils Fashion Trust Arabia winners whose collections it will stock
Luxury department store Harrods has announced an extended collab with Fashion Trust Arabia to support emerging designers from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). At an event at the London store this week, it said the collab 'goes far beyond endorsement: it gives these designers a global stage – Harrods itself – where creativity meets commerce'. July will see the collections of four newly-crowned FTA Prize winners available both in-store and online at That's hugely valuable exposure given the store's high profile as a must-visit destination for both affluent international shoppers and well-heeled locals. The retailer said that 'every day, the world walks through Harrods. By placing these designers in front of an international clientele—within a store that defines taste, influence and aspiration—Harrods does more than showcase creativity: it accelerates careers, providing visibility, credibility, and commercial access in equal measure.' So just who are the four designers? They include eveningwear designer Jasmin Mansour from Qatar, who takes a conceptual approach to her looks; Egypt/UK-based Nadine Mosallam, whose ready-to-wear is inspired by Egyptian heritage; Egypt's Ramla, a sustainable lifestyle/accessories brand rooted in artisanal tradition; and Saudi Arabia's APOA whose sculptural jewellery is design in Riyadh and made in Italy. 'Our partnership with Fashion Trust Arabia represents an ideal convergence of emerging talent and established figures in the luxury industry,' said Simon Longland, director of buying – Fashion at Harrods. 'We take great pride in supporting these designers not just through mentorship, but through real retail opportunities. We believe the Harrods customer is ready—and eager—to discover and embrace their work.' And FTA co-chair Tania Fares added: 'Our mission has always been to champion designers from the MENA region by opening doors to meaningful opportunities. Harrods' continued support goes beyond retail—it's a powerful endorsement that gives our winners global visibility… and a platform to grow sustainably.' Harrods explained that its renewed collaboration with FTA supports its 'broader vision to cultivate the next generation of fashion consumers while strengthening its connection with the MENA region's thriving luxury audience. From editorial features in Harrods Magazine and high-impact event programming, to dedicated e-commerce storytelling and exclusive in-store visibility, the activation demonstrates Harrods' full-spectrum support for rising creative voices'. And the mentoring element is also key with Clemmie Harris, head of buying – Contemporary, Sport & Essentials at Harrods, set to lead a specialist session titled 'Product Merchandising – Building a Range Plan, offering strategic insights into assortment curation and commercial storytelling, 'critical skills for growing a global fashion brand'.
Fashion Network
21-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Network
Harrods unveils Fashion Trust Arabia winners whose collections it will stock
Luxury department store Harrods has announced an extended collab with Fashion Trust Arabia to support emerging designers from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). At an event at the London store this week, it said the collab 'goes far beyond endorsement: it gives these designers a global stage – Harrods itself – where creativity meets commerce'. July will see the collections of four newly-crowned FTA Prize winners available both in-store and online at That's hugely valuable exposure given the store's high profile as a must-visit destination for both affluent international shoppers and well-heeled locals. The retailer said that 'every day, the world walks through Harrods. By placing these designers in front of an international clientele—within a store that defines taste, influence and aspiration—Harrods does more than showcase creativity: it accelerates careers, providing visibility, credibility, and commercial access in equal measure.' So just who are the four designers? They include eveningwear designer Jasmin Mansour from Qatar, who takes a conceptual approach to her looks; Egypt/UK-based Nadine Mosallam, whose ready-to-wear is inspired by Egyptian heritage; Egypt's Ramla, a sustainable lifestyle/accessories brand rooted in artisanal tradition; and Saudi Arabia's APOA whose sculptural jewellery is design in Riyadh and made in Italy. 'Our partnership with Fashion Trust Arabia represents an ideal convergence of emerging talent and established figures in the luxury industry,' said Simon Longland, director of buying – Fashion at Harrods. 'We take great pride in supporting these designers not just through mentorship, but through real retail opportunities. We believe the Harrods customer is ready—and eager—to discover and embrace their work.' And FTA co-chair Tania Fares added: 'Our mission has always been to champion designers from the MENA region by opening doors to meaningful opportunities. Harrods' continued support goes beyond retail—it's a powerful endorsement that gives our winners global visibility… and a platform to grow sustainably.' Harrods explained that its renewed collaboration with FTA supports its 'broader vision to cultivate the next generation of fashion consumers while strengthening its connection with the MENA region's thriving luxury audience. From editorial features in Harrods Magazine and high-impact event programming, to dedicated e-commerce storytelling and exclusive in-store visibility, the activation demonstrates Harrods' full-spectrum support for rising creative voices'. And the mentoring element is also key with Clemmie Harris, head of buying – Contemporary, Sport & Essentials at Harrods, set to lead a specialist session titled 'Product Merchandising – Building a Range Plan, offering strategic insights into assortment curation and commercial storytelling, 'critical skills for growing a global fashion brand'.
Fashion Network
21-05-2025
- Business
- Fashion Network
Harrods unveils Fashion Trust Arabia winners whose collections it will stock
Luxury department store Harrods has announced an extended collab with Fashion Trust Arabia to support emerging designers from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). At an event at the London store this week, it said the collab 'goes far beyond endorsement: it gives these designers a global stage – Harrods itself – where creativity meets commerce'. July will see the collections of four newly-crowned FTA Prize winners available both in-store and online at That's hugely valuable exposure given the store's high profile as a must-visit destination for both affluent international shoppers and well-heeled locals. The retailer said that 'every day, the world walks through Harrods. By placing these designers in front of an international clientele—within a store that defines taste, influence and aspiration—Harrods does more than showcase creativity: it accelerates careers, providing visibility, credibility, and commercial access in equal measure.' So just who are the four designers? They include eveningwear designer Jasmin Mansour from Qatar, who takes a conceptual approach to her looks; Egypt/UK-based Nadine Mosallam, whose ready-to-wear is inspired by Egyptian heritage; Egypt's Ramla, a sustainable lifestyle/accessories brand rooted in artisanal tradition; and Saudi Arabia's APOA whose sculptural jewellery is design in Riyadh and made in Italy. 'Our partnership with Fashion Trust Arabia represents an ideal convergence of emerging talent and established figures in the luxury industry,' said Simon Longland, director of buying – Fashion at Harrods. 'We take great pride in supporting these designers not just through mentorship, but through real retail opportunities. We believe the Harrods customer is ready—and eager—to discover and embrace their work.' And FTA co-chair Tania Fares added: 'Our mission has always been to champion designers from the MENA region by opening doors to meaningful opportunities. Harrods' continued support goes beyond retail—it's a powerful endorsement that gives our winners global visibility… and a platform to grow sustainably.' Harrods explained that its renewed collaboration with FTA supports its 'broader vision to cultivate the next generation of fashion consumers while strengthening its connection with the MENA region's thriving luxury audience. From editorial features in Harrods Magazine and high-impact event programming, to dedicated e-commerce storytelling and exclusive in-store visibility, the activation demonstrates Harrods' full-spectrum support for rising creative voices'. And the mentoring element is also key with Clemmie Harris, head of buying – Contemporary, Sport & Essentials at Harrods, set to lead a specialist session titled 'Product Merchandising – Building a Range Plan, offering strategic insights into assortment curation and commercial storytelling, 'critical skills for growing a global fashion brand'.
CairoScene
05-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
SPOTLIGHT: Alia bin Omair Transforms UAE's Heritage into Wearable Art
Alia bin Omair weaves Emirati heritage into organic textures and dainty jewellery pieces. Under The Spotlight: The statement, culturally-infused jewellery designs of Emirati designer, Alia bin Omair. The Setting: Across the UAE. The Frame: Striking forms, organic textures, statement pieces, and dainty accents—where contemporary elegance and Emirati heritage intertwine. Alia bin Omair in One Sentence: "A reflection of experimental design grounded in tradition, merging contemporary artistry with cultural heritage," the founder says. About the Designer: Alia bin Omair is an Emirati jewelry artist, born and raised in Dubai. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Applied Communications from Dubai Women's College, specializing in Graphic Design. Her creative journey has encompassed photography, product design, and illustration, but her true passion lies in jewelry design. 'I've always had a deep interest in heritage and the traditional craftsmanship of jewelry,' bin Omair shares. In 2013, she pursued a Diploma in Jewelry Design and Production at the Damas Jewellery Academy, where she was awarded Emirati Jewellery Designer of the Year. Three years later, she launched her eponymous label, and in 2021, she won the Fashion Trust Arabia Prize. 'The recognition from Fashion Trust Arabia was both humbling and empowering,' she says. 'Itelevated my brand's visibility on an international scale and gave me the confidence to continue pushing my creative boundaries.' The Muse: "Being Emirati, I'm drawn to my cultural roots—that's where my journey began," bin Omair explains. 'I started my brand to merge these rich traditions with experimental and contemporary design. ' The designer finds inspiration in a variety of artists, including Leigh Wells, Janine Janet, Karl Blossfeldt, and Elsa Peretti, as well as elements from their studios and libraries. 'The creative spaces and approaches of these artists deeply resonate with me,' she says. 'I'm particularly drawn to their ability to push boundaries while maintaining a connection to natural elements and materials.' These influences shape her designs through texture, form, and the integration of organic and abstract elements. bin Omair's Storytelling Philosophy: "I make sure each piece carries a story or significance, whether it's rooted in heritage, emotions, or a specific experience," bin Omair says. For the Satami collection, she shaped designs with clay molds, later cast in 18k gold, drawing inspiration from pre-oil era Gulf necklaces. 'Reinterpreting traditional coin necklaces was about bringing something from the past into a modern context,' she explains. 'I focused on preserving their cultural symbolism while using contemporary techniques to make them more wearable for today's generation.' Another significant collection, Touminah, is inspired by a traditional religious celebration in the UAE that honors children who have memorized the Qur'an. 'This practice holds deep cultural significance, and the collection reflects the beauty and reverence of that moment.' The Leaf collection is an experimental jewelry line inspired by palm fiber, a material often collected during the pruning of palm trees. 'I've always been intrigued by the bags of palm fiber gathered at home and wondered how I could transform this raw material into jewelry.' Each fiber is carefully harvested from shed leaves and bark, resulting in unique, textured gold pieces that capture the essence of the UAE's natural landscape. The Designs Through Alia bin Omair's Lens: "I believe that when someone wears a piece that speaks to them on a personal level, it becomes more than just jewelry—it's a form of self-expression." The Behind-The-Scenes Process: A naturally curious designer, bin Omair enjoys experimenting with materials and methods that reflect the UAE's rich heritage and traditional craftsmanship, all handmade in Dubai. She is constantly seeking new techniques to fuse art and design, a signature approach evident in her inaugural collection, Tears. This collection showcases casts of frankincense nuggets—often referred to as 'tears of the tree'—as striking statement earrings, studs, necklaces, rings, and bracelets. bin Omair is also a strong advocate for gold vermeil in her designs. 'Gold vermeil allows me to offer high-quality pieces with the richness and warmth of gold—without the higher price tag of solid gold,' she explains. 'It creates pieces that feel luxurious and accessible at the same time.' bin Omair's Stand-Out Pieces: "One of my favorite pieces is the Levonah Necklace from the Tears collection. This collection, and particularly this necklace, stands out for its weight and distinctive shape." Another standout piece comes from Alia bin Omair's collaboration with Odeem—the Fibre Leather Bag. In this partnership with the UAE-based luxury bag brand, bin Omair designed gold-plated silver ornaments for Odeem's purses. The collaboration also includes jewelry, with the R Gold-Plated Silver Earrings standing out for their geometric design and bold silhouette. The Future of Jewelry Design in the UAE: "I believe there will be a continued rise in sustainable practices and materials, with more focus on ethically sourced gems and metals. In the UAE, we're also seeing a blend of modern minimalism with traditional craftsmanship, as designers embrace both their heritage and contemporary global influences." In the Words of Alia bin Omair… "For me, thoughtful design means creating pieces that are intentional in every aspect—from the materials used to the emotions they evoke. It's about designing not just for aesthetics, but with a deeper connection to culture, history, and personal stories."
