Fatma Mostafa, Egyptian jewellery designer
It was a pivotal point on the Silk Road trade routes, with textiles being transported back and forth between Europe and Asia. As a result, combining cross-global influences with the region’s own cultural traditions made the Middle East a melting pot for brands and artisans, embracing heritage and history in everything they do.
In Saudi Arabia, the establishment of the Fashion Commission by the Ministry of Culture signals a commitment to nurturing the kingdom’s clothing industry while safeguarding its storied heritage of craftsmanship. Burak Cakmak, chief executive of the commission, emphasises its mission, saying: “The Fashion Commission was set up to build a forward-looking fashion industry in Saudi Arabia that amplifies local talent and champions the local value chain and local craftsmanship.”
Source: How traditional Middle Eastern crafts are inspiring contemporary fashion design