Wid Zahid is a Saudi designer with a fashion degree. She is following her dream of establishing her own fashion brand. Her fascination with fashion and style stem from when she was a young girl. Her grandmother and her father both had a great deal of influence and assistance in attracting her to the fashion world. “My grandmother established and ran the first fashion house in Saudi and my father is in the ready-to-wear business since the early 90s,” she said.
Her fashion brand, “W” by Wid Zahid, is a newly born brand. “I have established it and it is still in the process of development to achieve the highest international quality standards and leave its imprint on world fashion,” she said.
Before establishing “W” by Wid Zahid, the designer worked on gaining experience to be able to launch her own line, not only through studying and taking courses, but through combining coursework with actual business experience. “I have joined internship programs and worked in many different companies as a designer while I was still working on getting my degree. This enabled me to get to know that I am ready to start my own brand to achieve my dream,” said Wid.
We spoke with the Saudi designer, who told us about her fashion career, her brand and her future plans.
What are the fabrics and materials you like to use in your designs?
It mainly depends on the garment. For example, I usually use cottons and crepe for casual and smart casual, while in haute-couture garments, I tend to use organza, pure silk and taffeta.
Your thobes are a great mixture between modern and culture. How did you make this possible?
I like to do a lot of research in fashion history and current fashion trends. This includes cuts and color; yet I find myself always going back to my roots. Islamic architecture has influenced me the most, especially our old cultural wear. For example, in my previous Ramadan collection, I was inspired by Jeddah’s spirit from old buildings, Red Sea coral colors and traditional Hijazi men’s “abayas,” which I have combined with major trends of the 60s in prints and simple cuts.
How do you update yourself with the latest fashion trends?
I do a lot of research and keep myself updated by following fashion shows in New York, London, Milan and Paris fashion weeks of each season of the year. I analyze the trends put forth by the shows by comparing them to previous historic trends, which I publish in a periodic fashion trend report that I make and keep as a reference for myself.
What inspires you when designing a new line?
Mostly western and ancient eastern architecture and interior design details inspire me. Sometimes, I combine that with modern architecture. I try to mix that in my designs and transform it to an edgy but feminine design.
Do you think the Saudi market is a competitive market when it comes to thobe designs?
Indeed. Thobes are highly demanded by various types of customers, especially in Ramadan, which makes Ramadan a season for all designers to focus on thobes. Yet each designer has her own style. Some prefer modern and trendy thobes, while others like traditional and classic designs.
What makes your thobes special and different from other designed thobes?
I follow the latest modern international trends and transform them into elegant modern thobes that are suitable for Ramadan and other occasions.
How do you want your client to feel when wearing your designs?
Unique, stylish and elegant.
Where do you sell your designs and where do you wish to sell?
Right now, I take part in various bazaars and I sell them through social media outlets. I wish to put my collection in famous boutiques in Saudi and the Gulf area. Additionally, I am planning to open my own boutique.
What is next for Wid Zahid?
Currently, I am working on a new collection that includes cocktail dresses, haute-couture, smart casual and ready-to-wear garments.
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