Breaking fashion stereotypes.
There’s a new wave of street fashion being embraced both internationally and locally, giving people more room for self-expression through their unique style. We speak to some of our favorite up-and-coming style icons about how this subculture is taking over.
TURKI AL HARBI
Founder of Saudi Swag and street fashion influencer Turki Al Harbi speaks to those who are not afraid to be bold, stand out, and lead change. “This younger crowd is brave, more open to expressing individuality. They will lead the fashion industry and introduce a depth to street fashion and the art of fashion,” Turki says.
According to him, Saudi Arabia’s prior focus on traditional dress codes and casual wear is a huge factor to our struggle for self-expressionism. “It’s been changing gradually, and I’m optimistic that with our attention to street fashion, we can bring it to a whole new level of self-expressionism and streetwear.”
HAYAT OSAMA
“Some people introduce themselves to the world through their style, and others let their fashion represent them. Do what your personality dictates,” she says. Hayat is excited about how brave Saudis have become in the last few years when it comes to experimenting with streetwear.
“Visions are becoming very creative!” she says, adding that there’s less focus on labels, and more on strong pieces that help any outfit stand out.
Do what your personality dictates.
ABDULLAH BAGALB
Abdullah remembers a time in the recent past when you don’t see streetwear on kids. “Today, though, not only are Saudis getting into street fashion, there are also many Saudi brands in the streetwear category being established.” He has also noticed how society is now more accepting of our differences in terms of fashion, and if that isn’t evolution, what is?
If this isn’t evolution, what is?
LAMIA OTAISHAN
According to Lamia, fashion is more than what is current and popular. “It’s a medium of expression that extends to preference, individuality, and culture. The ability to express ourselves and the availability of means to do so says a lot about fashion’s flexibility,” she adds.
The ability to express ourselves and the availability of means to do so, says a lot about fashion’s flexibility.
MAZIN MAIMANI
“More than society embracing self-expressionism, people in fashion are themselves learning to embrace different styles, appreciating the fact that we don’t all have to be following the same style or have the same taste,” Mazin says. “For a while, fashion in Saudi was categorized as either right and wrong – but there’s no right or wrong in fashion!”
We don’t all have to be following the same style, or have the same taste.