DEISGNER Camelia Al-Za’eem enjoys exploring the world of hijab fashion and discovering new fashion style and colors that suit each and every girl. According to Al-Za’eem, women with hijab can be as innovative and elegant as anyone on the haute couture circuit of Milan. Al-Za’eem was recently interviewed by Sayidaty, a sister publication of Arab News:
Why did you go for this chain of fashion?
I was raised in a religious atmosphere. My family and community influenced me. This is in fact a new idea in Lebanon and in the Arab world, and there are many opportunities and space for more innovations. I try my best to prove myself and to distinguish my collections, even though I have only three years of experience.
What is your target?
I target girls and women between the ages of 15 and 30.
What is so special and distinguished in your designs and collections?
They accompany modern fashion in terms of color, design and material. I come up with untraditional styles that would show the beauty of girls and women with hijab. There are varying designs and the girls can select what suits them.
How did girls and other designers receive your collections?
Positively, they welcomed my collection not only in Lebanon but also in other Arab counties, including, Egypt, the UAE and Jordon. I am looking forward to go to other countries especially now that I have traveled a lot and I see how fashion works in Paris and Milan.
Do you encourage girls with hijab to put on some accessories?
Sure, why not? Accessories add to the overall look, especially if they match the color of the hijab. In the past women used to suffer in order to find suitable clothes but now the situation has changed and more clothes are available.
Have you introduced your collections in Lebanon?
I am about to introduce my summer collection in Lebanon. I am thinking of inviting actresses with hijab, such as Hana Turk and Hala Shiha. I want to start from Lebanon and move to other Arab countries and Europe. I have introduced my collections there and they were widely welcomed.
What about your future plans for fall-winter collections for 2007-2008?
I have the main idea for that collection and I started designing the clothes in preparation for the launch.
What about the prices of your designs are they affordable?
Prices are average; they range from $20 to $250. I have a collection for school and college students, and I tried to cover all occasions. I believe that long clothes add to the beauty, decency and elegancy of women.
What about working women, you have introduced a collection for them?
I have designed styles for different working women, whether employees, engineers, or doctors. Clothes that would make her walk smoothly, comfortably and without being embarrassed.
What are colors do you prefer?
Black and white; they are the colors of this year.
What is your advice for a woman that wears hijab?
To see the beauty of her inner self, to wear what suits her and to go for fashion.
Who are your favorite Lebanese and international designers?
Elie Saab and Valentino, I keep an eye on all their designs.
