KML: Creating a new identity for Saudi menswear 

KML: Creating a new identity for Saudi menswear 
The label’s minimalist designs and sharp tailoring are reshaping Saudi menswear by reimagining traditional garments from the Kingdom’s history through a contemporary lens. (Supplied)
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Updated 13 March 2025
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KML: Creating a new identity for Saudi menswear 

KML: Creating a new identity for Saudi menswear 
  • Siblings Razan and Ahmed Hassan’s brand is only just over a year old, but has already gained global attention

DUBAI: Siblings Razan and Ahmed Hassan are on a roll. Since the launch of their menswear label KML in 2022, the Saudi brand has rapidly gained recognition, most recently as a semi-finalist for the prestigious LVMH Prize — an annual award for young fashion designers run by the eponymous fashion conglomerate — placing them among global fashion’s most promising new voices. And, in November, celebrity stylist Law Roach opted for a KML creation to wear to the “1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” event in Riyadh.  

Through creative director Ahmed’s minimalist designs and sharp tailoring, KML, of which Razan is the owner, is reshaping Saudi menswear by reimagining traditional garments from the Kingdom’s history through a contemporary lens: jackets with shawls, large leather belts of the type seen on Bedouin men, and skirts reminiscent of the ones historically worn by men in the Eastern Province, Jazan and Hijaz.  

Ahmed says that their grandmother was a huge influence when he and his sister were growing up in Riyadh. He fondly recalls both her progressive nature and inimitable style. As a young boy, Ahmed would often accompany her to fabric shops so she could get her designs stitched by a local tailor. That exposure to craftsmanship left an impression, though fashion was not initially an obvious career path.  

“The family would oppose my trips to the fabric stores,” he tells Arab News. “My uncles would tell her she was ruining me, and her reply would be: ‘Ahmed has taste, so why not?’”  

When he decided to venture into fashion, his grandmother wholeheartedly supported him when other family members expressed their concerns — concerns they had despite the fact that the family were progressive, with writers and poets among them, he says. With time, he realized their hesitation stemmed not from disapproval but from societal perceptions of men in the industry. “They wanted to protect me from the stigma associated with men in fashion,” he explains.  

With no formal fashion education programs for men in Saudi, Ahmed instead studied architecture, later interning at Zaha Hadid Architects, where he developed an appreciation for structure and form. Razan, meanwhile, pursued law at Prince Sultan University and she went on to practice it full-time.  

“One summer, we both realized we weren’t doing what we truly wanted to do, so I decided to go to the UK to study creative writing, and Ahmed went to Central Saint Martins (in London) for a few courses,” Razan explains.  

The pair often discussed starting a brand together, and they frequently talked about fashion, delving into historical research, while Ahmed continuously sketched — though he kept his drawings private.  

“It struck us that we have so much that we can bring to the realm of reality from our imagination. We wanted to do something meaningful. Tradition and intention were very important to us,” Ahmed says. “Razan looked at me sketching, and was, like, ‘You better do something with these. You better make them a reality.’”  

That was the catalyst for the launch of KML. In August 2023, they launched their debut capsule collection. “We just did three shirts and two pairs of pants, and filled the studio walls with references, research and development sketches,” explains Ahmed.  

Towards the end of that year, they applied to the Saudi 100 Brands program. “When we presented our sample pieces to (Saudi Fashion Commission CEO) Burak Cakmak, we didn’t even talk about the brand. Instead, we discussed what fashion can and should be, and how people are going back to their roots and want to (express) their culture more.”  

The Fashion Commission recognized their potential, providing support that led to KML showcasing its collections at fashion weeks in Paris, Riyadh and Milan.  

“Paris was a wonderful experience. People found our clothes rebellious—especially the skirts for men,” says Ahmed. “But it was rebellious to wear pants in Saudi Arabia 200 years ago! Men everywhere here wore skirts — there were different names for them.”  

However, the historical relevance of the clothes was not immediately apparent to many online commentators.  

“We’re on a high right now, so we tend to forget the lows,” Ahmed says. “We were slaughtered on social media — people told us we were ruining the culture and how men look. It became toxic, so we quit social media temporarily to focus on our work.”  

Neither KLM’s skirts nor its wrap shirts with circular cut-outs at the back were intended to be controversial. Ahmed stresses that throughout the Kingdom’s history, men’s garments have been layered and draped, creating freedom of movement. KLM was simply offering a fresh perspective on them. “People forget: 70 years ago, wearing jeans and a T-shirt in Saudi would have been considered controversial,” he says. “The intention is not for it to be provocative. If anything, we are bringing back dying traditions.”  




Ahmed Hassan. (Supplied)

Despite the social-media furor, the skirts sold out.  

Much of Ahmed’s design philosophy is rooted in cultural reinterpretation. The idea for cinched waists — or highlighting the waist in some way — was inspired by how Bedouin men would wrap a leather belt or fabric round their waists. He has also designed a long coat with hidden zippers that can be turned into a cropped jacket, highlighting that, traditionally, there have been multiple ways of styling a single garment.  

Another key piece is the one-shoulder tunic. During their research, the siblings discovered that the one-shoulder silhouette was shared across ancient civilizations, from Greece to India — highlighting a universal connection.  

Last year, celebrity stylist Roach discovered their designs. What started as a casual Instagram message turned into a studio visit, during which Roach spent hours trying on their pieces.  

“We thought he would just send someone to pick up a few items,” Ahmed says. “Instead, he showed up himself, spent time with us, and repeatedly told us how this is a cultural product.”  

Then came recognition from the LVMH Prize — one of the most prestigious awards in the industry. “Thousands of designers apply, and only 20 make the cut. We were one of them. It still feels surreal,” says Ahmed. 

Despite their success, one of the siblings’ biggest challenges is production. Currently, KML’s garments are manufactured in Europe, but the ultimate goal is to bring everything back to Saudi Arabia.  

“The fashion ecosystem here is still developing, but we want everything — design, development and runway presentations — to be fully Saudi,” Ahmed says. “Being a Saudi designer is great, but contributing to the bigger ecosystem? That’s even more meaningful.” 


Saudi-shot action thriller ‘Seven Dogs’ drops first-look images

Saudi-shot action thriller ‘Seven Dogs’ drops first-look images
Updated 18 March 2025
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Saudi-shot action thriller ‘Seven Dogs’ drops first-look images

Saudi-shot action thriller ‘Seven Dogs’ drops first-look images

DUBAI: First images for Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah Saudi-shot action thriller “Seven Dogs” have dropped as the production shoots outside the capital of Riyadh.

The $40 million project from the “Bad Boys for Life” directorial duo is being shot at the newly inaugurated Alhisn Big Time Studios in Riyadh, one of the Middle East and North Africa region’s biggest film and television production facilities, with additional filming at Riyadh Boulevard. Riyadh will also serve as a stand-in for multiple international cities, including Mumbai and Shanghai.

Karim Abdel Aziz and Ahmed Ezz on set. (Supplied)

The thriller is based on an original story by Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority.

Egyptian stars Karim Abdel Aziz (“The Blue Elephant,” “Kira & El Gin,” “Abu Ali”) and Ahmed Ezz (“Kira & El Gin,” “The Cell,” “Welad Rizk”) headline the action film.

Ezz plays Interpol officer Khalid Al-Azzazi who apprehends Ghali Abu Dawood (Aziz), a high-ranking member of the clandestine global crime syndicate known as Seven Dogs. A year later, the organization resurfaces, trafficking a dangerous new drug — Pink Lady — across the Middle East.

With time running out, Khalid reluctantly joins forces with Ghali, the only person with intimate knowledge of the syndicate’s operations. Their uneasy alliance propels them on a high-stakes mission across multiple global cities as they strive to dismantle the organization and prevent the drug from flooding Arab streets.

“Seven Dogs” is slated for a late 2025 release.
 


Zuhair Murad unveils Marina Rinaldi collection inspired by the Tang dynasty

Zuhair Murad unveils Marina Rinaldi collection inspired by the Tang dynasty
Updated 18 March 2025
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Zuhair Murad unveils Marina Rinaldi collection inspired by the Tang dynasty

Zuhair Murad unveils Marina Rinaldi collection inspired by the Tang dynasty

DUBAI: Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad has unveiled his latest collaboration with Italian label Marina Rinaldi. Murad designed the brand’s Spring/Summer 2025 capsule collection inspired by China’s Tang dynasty. 

Drawing from the dynasty’s introduction of peony cultivation in imperial gardens, Murad infused the collection with images of the flower.

The collection focuses largely on eveningwear.

The collection focuses largely on eveningwear. (Supplied)

“Grand evening gowns go beyond the pure object, they are a way of investing in one’s personal history,” the designer said in a released statement. True to his signature style, the collection features hourglass silhouettes and intricate hand-embroidered details.

The collection’s color palette mirrors another element of Tang dynasty artistry — delicate chinaware. Soft shades of cream, sky blue, aquamarine green and pink infuse the flowing chiffon gowns, pleated bodices and long plisse skirts. 

“These looks wrap and enhance all women,” said Murad, highlighting the collection’s inclusive and flattering designs. The pieces are crafted from a mix of luxurious fabrics, including cady, pure silk georgette and shimmering sequins hand-sewn onto tulle to create a wave effect.

This is Murad’s second collection for Marina Rinaldi. (Supplied)

The silhouettes range from semi-fitted bodices that gently flare out to rich, flowing kaftans adorned with peony motifs. The collection also features long-sleeved gowns with deep V-necklines that emphasize the waist, along with sleek trouser suits for a modern touch.

The Tang dynasty ruled china from 618 to 907, with an interregnum between 690 and 705. The period was known for its flourishing arts and culture scene, with imperial ceremonies reviving the practice of hosting orchestras and companies of dancers. China in this period was also open to outside influences as as Arabian and Persian seamen did trade in the area.

This is Murad’s second collection for Marina Rinaldi that merges historical influences with contemporary fashion. 

The designer has been recognized for his detailed craftsmanship in haute couture and bridal fashion. Since founding his brand in 1997, he has gained international attention. His creations have been worn by celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Taylor Swift, Celine Dion, Sofia Vergara, Blake Lively, Kristen Stewart, and Scarlett Johansson on major red carpets. 

He is also one of a handful of Arab designers on the official Paris Fashion Week and Paris Haute Couture Week calendars.


May Calamawy promotes indie film ‘The Actor’

May Calamawy promotes indie film ‘The Actor’
Updated 17 March 2025
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May Calamawy promotes indie film ‘The Actor’

May Calamawy promotes indie film ‘The Actor’

DUBAI: Egyptian Palestinian actress May Calamawy took to social media this week to promote her latest film, “The Actor.”

The actress, who previously took on a leading role in Marvel series “Moon Knight,” stars alongside US actor Andre Holland and English actress Gemma Chan in the indie film.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by May Calamawy (@calamawy)

“Had the BEST TIME with everyone on #TheActor, showing in select theatres today  (sic),” Calamawy wrote on Instagram alongside a carousel of behind-the-scenes images from the set of the film.

The movie follows fictional actor Paul Cole who is beaten and left for dead in 1950s era Ohio.  He loses his memory and finds himself stranded in a mysterious small town where he struggles to get back home to New York and reclaim what he has lost.

The film was directed by Duke Johnson, co-produced by “Suits” alum Abigail Spencer and executive produced by Ryan Gosling. The film was scripted by Johnson and Stephen Cooney and is based on the bestselling novel “Memory” by Donald E. Westlake.

Calamawy is known for her roles in US Netflix series “Ramy” and “Moon Knight” (2022), where she plays dual characters Layla El-Faouly  and the Scarlet Scarab.

She made headlines in late 2024 when almost all her scenes were cut from Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator II,” with fans taking to social media to complain.

Her casting in the film was first announced in May 2023.

At the time, Deadline reported that Scott had cast Calamawy after a lengthy search, writing: “While many of the leading roles were straight offers, Scott wanted to do a similar search he did for the (Paul) Mescal part for the role that Calamawy ultimately landed.

“Given the importance of the character to the story, Scott wanted a thorough search, and following multiple auditions Calamawy landed the part,” Deadline added.

However, fans noticed that in the final cut, which hit cinemas in November, Calamawy is only seen in passing and she has no dialogue. Scott did not comment on Calamawy’s removal from the two hour and 28-minute film.


Farjana Salahuddin explores AI, tradition through interactive installation in Qatar

Farjana Salahuddin explores AI, tradition through interactive installation in Qatar
Updated 17 March 2025
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Farjana Salahuddin explores AI, tradition through interactive installation in Qatar

Farjana Salahuddin explores AI, tradition through interactive installation in Qatar

DOHA: Artists from around the world are showcasing their work in Qatar at “Ai or Nay? Artificial vs. Intelligent,” an exhibition running until May 15 at Doha’s Media Majlis Museum at Northwestern University.

The show features more than 20 installations by international artists exploring themes of artificial intelligence, creativity and identity. Among the contributors is Doha-based Bangladeshi artist Farjana Salahuddin, whose interactive installation “Patterned Deserts: Where AI and Traditions Meet” is a key highlight.

The experiential piece invites visitors to run their fingers through sand, encouraging them to reflect on the dynamic relationship between human creativity and technological advancement, Salahuddin said. As they move their fingers, shapes and lines form in response to their touch.

“It’s an interactive, sensory experience where people can connect with the piece and move their fingers through the sand,” Salahuddin told Arab News. “It’s a way to contemplate how much impact we’re really having, or whether technology is taking over all aspects of our lives.”

Inspired by natural elements such as desert roses and shells, the installation blends human-made forms with tech-driven designs. “Sometimes the sand follows your movements, but other times it moves on its own,” Salahuddin said. “This reflects how technology is evolving, sometimes complementing us and other times taking its own course.”

The interactive media artist, who was raised in Doha, drew inspiration from the city’s changing landscapes. “Doha is my home and it is transforming so much. In some places, you'll see that their identity is completely changing, and it’s all steel and glass,” she explained. 

“But then in some other places, we are trying to preserve the meaning in so many different ways, like the National Museum. It is such a contemporary place. So, we can build contemporary things, while keeping our identity in place as well.” 


Ikram Abdi spotted at Moncler show in French ski resort

Ikram Abdi spotted at Moncler show in French ski resort
Updated 16 March 2025
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Ikram Abdi spotted at Moncler show in French ski resort

Ikram Abdi spotted at Moncler show in French ski resort

DUBAI: Swedish Somali model Ikram Abdi attended the Moncler Grenoble Fall/Winter 2025 runway show in Courchevel, France, on Saturday, as Saudi Arabia-based model Georgina Rodriguez hit the snowy catwalk.

Courchevel is a French Alps ski resort located in the Tarentaise Valley. It is a part of Les Trois Vallées, the largest linked ski area in the world.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Moncler (@moncler)

“The energy of winter sports, the warmth and joy of experiences shared on the snow, and the brand’s dedication to dressing all aspects of mountain life, combining high performance and high style, will be celebrated with a memorable brand experience at high altitude,” Moncler said in a statement released in December, before the unusual runway location was unveiled.

Fast forward to March 15 and the luxury label invited the who’s who of Hollywood to the resort’s snow-capped peaks as models walked a landing strip-turned-runway in a flurry of snow.

Abdi was joined by actress Ashley Park, Oscar-winner Adrien Brody, actress Jessica Chastain and South Korean star Lee Jae-wook, among others.

Jessica Chastain at the show. (Getty Images)

While the star-studded audience took in the show, Rodriguez walked the runway in a chunky knitted look complete with knee-high, fur-lined boots.

The model, who is the longtime partner of football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, has modelled for luxury brands before and was recently spotted sitting front row at Lebanese label Elie Saab’s Paris Fashion Week.

Rodriguez walked the runway in a chunky knitted look complete with knee-high, fur-lined boots. (Instagram)

Elie Saab’s Ready-to-Wear Fall/Winter 2025-2026 collection transported the Paris Fashion Week audience to the world’s most exclusive mountain retreats, where relaxed glamour meets alpine allure.

At the show in March, Rodriguez wore a pristine white outfit that was in tune with Saab’s alpine theme. The ensemble featured a luxurious, textured top adorned with delicate feather-like details, adding a touch of avant-garde flair.

Rodriguez also recently joined forces with Lebanese dance group Mayyas, who won the 17th season of “America's Got Talent,” for a new campaign released earlier this month.

They starred in an advertisement for Egyptian real estate company Horizon Egypt Developments, where Rodriguez and the Mayyas promote Saada, a real estate development in New Cairo in Egypt.

For her part, Abdi, who posed for photographs at Moncler’s latest show, made her catwalk debut in 2018 during London Modest Fashion Week. She went on to walk for the likes of Iceberg and Charles Jeffrey and she has fronted campaigns for major international brands, including Burberry and Nike.