Fashion: Art of style

The legendary couturier, known for her breathtaking bridal masterpieces, effortlessly bridges the gap between timeless tradition and modern sophistication — one meticulously embroidered stitch at a time. And her Ramadan collection? A masterclass in couture storytelling.

“In the Bunto Kazmi Exclusive Bridal Series, we believe in fusing classic craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics,” says Kazmi. Luxurious fabrics, intricate embroidery, and traditional silhouettes remain at the heart of her creations, but modern cuts, subtle embellishments, and unexpected colour palettes add a fresh twist. Her collection pays homage to Middle Eastern heritage while embracing today’s refined, fashion-forward sensibilities.

Kazmi’s artistry isn’t confined to one cultural influence. In a striking example of global inspiration, she infused her bridal collection with the ancient South Asian Bandhani tie-dye technique, blending the vibrant patterns of Indian craftsmanship with the timeless grace of Middle Eastern bridal wear. “The fusion of these two traditions created a unique lehenga that resonated deeply with our audience,” she shares. “It was a celebration of cultural diversity, proving that fashion is a universal language.”

The reaction? Absolutely electric. Brides and fashion enthusiasts alike praised the bold yet elegant crossover, loving how Kazmi’s designs honour multiple heritages in a single, seamless creation. “It was refreshing to see such a harmonious blend,” she reflects. “Clients appreciated the innovation while recognising the deep-rooted elegance that defines our brand.”

Sana Safinaz’s Ramadan collection is a love letter to tradition, infused with just the right touch of contemporary flair — because who says heritage can’t be fashion-forward?

“At Sana Safinaz, we honour the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East while embracing modern aesthetics,” says the design duo — Sana Hashwani and Safinaz Muneer. Their secret? A seamless blend of intricate handwork, innovative cuts, and luxurious fabrics that cater to the evolving tastes of the style-conscious woman.

Embroidery plays a starring role in their collections. “We draw from archival motifs for both handwork and machine embroidery, but refine them with contemporary stylisation,” they explain. The kaftans and draped ensembles retain their iconic structure and intricate detailing but come alive with fresh hues, minimalist embroidery, and innovative layering.

Their ability to fuse cultures is equally impressive. The Mastaani bridal collection, for example, channels the grandeur of Mughal artistry. “We took intricate Mughal motifs, reminiscent of miniature paintings, and wove them into rich textiles with opulent embroidery,” they say. The palette, deeply inspired by the Indian subcontinent, is juxtaposed with modern silhouettes, creating a striking harmony between past and present.

The response? Nothing short of phenomenal. “Our clientele loves how we reinterpret tradition while keeping it relevant,” they say. By seamlessly merging heritage with innovation, Sana Safinaz proves that cultural craftsmanship isn’t just a relic of the past — it’s the foundation of luxury fashion’s future.

Zainab Salman’s Ramadan collection is a masterclass in blending tradition with contemporary flair — proving that modest fashion can be both timeless and on-trend.

“Ramadan is a time for reflection and connection, and I believe fashion should mirror that balance,” says Salman. Her latest collection stays true to traditional Middle Eastern attire with flowing fabrics, easy-to-wear kaftans, and modest silhouettes — perfect for suhour nights. But don’t mistake tradition for outdated. “We’ve infused modernity by incorporating fusion cuts and keeping global trends in mind,” she adds. The result? Lightweight yet luxurious pieces in pure silks and crepes, exuding sophistication without compromising comfort.

Salman doesn’t shy away from bold influences. This season, she introduces eclectic prints inspired by global cultures, bringing fresh energy to classic designs. “My personal favourites are the Bengali Tiger and Rainforest prints,” she reveals. “They tell a delicate story and merge beautifully with the elegance of Middle Eastern kaftans.”

One standout piece is the Vivid Kaftan — a fusion of Japanese and Middle Eastern craftsmanship. “It’s a kimono-kaftan hybrid that embodies both structure and fluidity,” she says. Hand-embellished motifs on the shoulder add a signature Zainab Salman touch, making the design modest yet striking.

The response? Overwhelmingly positive. “Our clients love the seamless cultural blend — it feels fresh yet respectful of tradition,” Salman says. Her collection has become the go-to for women seeking effortless style during Ramadan and Eid.

Misha Lakhani’s approach to fashion is all about blending heritage with versatility, proving that traditional silhouettes and modern aesthetics can coexist beautifully.

“As our world becomes more global and fashion ceases to be ethnic, styles transcend boundaries, and silhouettes start to influence each other,” says Lakhani. Her Ramadan collection is a testament to this philosophy, seamlessly marrying timeless craftsmanship with contemporary ease. Flowing drapes, relaxed tailoring, and exquisite embellishments define the pieces, making them as functional as they are luxurious.

Lakhani understands the modern woman’s need for versatility, especially in Dubai. “The women here love craftsmanship and luxury but need their clothes to do double-duty,” she explains. Whether it’s a handwoven tunic styled for a casual iftar or a statement piece that transitions effortlessly from day to night, her designs prioritise adaptability while staying undeniably chic.

By drawing inspiration from cultures beyond the Middle East, Lakhani ensures her pieces resonate with a diverse audience. Her collection celebrates tradition without being bound by it. “It’s about honouring heritage while embracing a modern, global sensibility,” she says.

Mini Sondhi’s latest collection, Threads of Belonging, is a dazzling fusion of Middle Eastern heritage and contemporary aesthetics — where tradition meets reinvention in the most glamorous way.

“Gold and black are at the heart of this collection,” says Sondhi. “They symbolise luxury and grandeur, capturing the essence of Middle Eastern fashion and culture.” Inspired by the region’s breathtaking palaces, the collection reinterprets architectural splendour through modern silhouettes. Think fluid yet structured pieces — floor-length dresses cinched with belts for effortless elegance, and structured blazers paired with anarkalis for a nostalgic-meets-modern edge.

One of the most enchanting pieces, The Dream House, pays homage to Dubai’s majestic palaces. “It features intricate embroidery depicting a princess with a bird — symbolising grace and freedom,” Sondhi explains. It’s more than just fashion; it’s a tribute to her grandmother, whose timeless elegance mirrors the sophistication of Middle Eastern attire. “Through Threads of Belonging, I want to honour tradition while reimagining it for today’s global, fashion-forward woman.”

Sondhi’s artistry doesn’t stop at Middle Eastern influences. As an Indian designer, her work is deeply rooted in vibrant colours, rich textiles, and intricate craftsmanship. “My approach to embroidery is highly experimental,” she says. By blending traditional Indian techniques with modern artistry drawn from contemporary installations, she crafts pieces that are both timeless and fresh.

Sawan Gandhi’s Ramadan collection is where timeless tradition meets contemporary elegance, proving that modest fashion can be effortlessly chic.

“Sawan Gandhi as a fashion label has always embraced a distinct and timeless design philosophy,” says Gandhi. His collections balance simplicity with opulence, ensuring every piece is intricately detailed yet refreshingly understated. “Our garments blend tradition with modern aesthetics, creating ensembles that celebrate individuality while remaining graceful.”

Expect flowy silhouettes, modest cuts, and a colour palette ranging from rich jewel tones to soft pastels. The brand’s signature touch? A play on textures, featuring sequins, Chikankari embroidery, and appliqué work — crafts that resonate deeply with the UAE’s cultural landscape. “These elements have significant value in the region, reflecting a shared appreciation for heritage and craftsmanship,” Gandhi notes.

But inspiration for the brand isn’t confined to one region. A standout creation in his collection is the Cutwork Saree, a piece that draws from the intricate jaal patterns found in architectural monuments across the world. “It transcends eras and cultures, crafted in regal jewel tones that epitomise global royalty,” he explains. This design became an instant favourite, seamlessly blending historical influences with contemporary finesse.

The response from fashion lovers has been nothing short of glowing. “Each garment tells a unique story,” Gandhi reflects. “Our clients appreciate pieces that honour tradition while embracing modernity.”

Onori by Sharifa Alhashemi is an ode to fashion’s golden eras — think the effortless sophistication of the ’60s, the bold drama of the ’80s, and the sleek minimalism of the ’90s — all seamlessly blended with contemporary Middle Eastern elegance.

“My creative process always starts with a mood board,” says Alhashemi. “Fashion history, art, and culture inspire me, but fabric selection is key — it defines the structure and feel of each piece.” Beyond history, she finds inspiration in people’s everyday gestures — the way they carry themselves, their accessories, even their lipstick choices. “It’s the little details that spark my creativity,” she adds. At the heart of Onori’s identity? The unapologetic, ever-evolving Cher. “She embodies empowerment, femininity, and individuality — values we weave into every design,” Alhashemi explains. It’s this fearless reinvention that gives Onori its signature edge, fusing tradition with modernity. Pearls, a nod to the region’s heritage, add timeless elegance, while traditional embroidery and draping techniques get a contemporary refresh.

For Ramadan, Onori offers effortless sophistication. “I want women to feel confident, refined, and comfortable,” she says. Pieces like the Ribboned Reverie set and the Reverie Coat strike the perfect balance between modesty and modern elegance. Designed to transition seamlessly into Eid, Onori’s collections make it easy to mix, match, and style for any occasion.

With its luxe fabrics, refined details, and subtle embellishments, the label celebrates beauty and grace in every stitch. Because she believes, “Luxury is deeply rooted in our culture, and that’s exactly what Onori reflects.”

If fashion were a language, Nahla – Ecstacy Convivial Couture would be fluent in both tradition and modernity, effortlessly code-switching between timeless Middle Eastern elegance and contemporary chic. With its latest Ramadan collection, the brand once again proves that heritage and high fashion can go hand in hand — without missing a beat. “In Ecstacy, we believe in elegantly blending tradition with modern style,” says the designer behind the label. “Classic silhouettes remain, but we infuse them with contemporary touches — think luxurious fabrics like silk, crepe, and shimmer, paired with breathable materials for all-day comfort.”

The brand takes a refined approach to embroidery, swapping elaborate embellishments for minimalist geometric patterns that feel sleek and sophisticated. While soft neutrals and rich jewel tones anchor the palette, trendy hues breathe fresh energy into the designs. Cultural motifs — Islamic patterns, calligraphy — are reimagined with a modern aesthetic, proving that modest fashion can be both timeless and cutting edge.

But Nahla doesn’t stop at regional influences. A standout piece in the brand's latest collection borrows inspiration from Western draping, seamlessly blending fluid silhouettes with Middle Eastern modesty. “Our kaftans maintain the elegance favoured in the region while introducing a contemporary Western flair,” she says. And it was a resounding success. “Our clients loved the fusion of heritage craftsmanship with modern tailoring. It particularly resonated with women seeking unique, sophisticated pieces that celebrate cultural diversity while staying wearable in the region.”