Many people in the 1970s and ‘80s thought that the Kingdom’s traditional dress would pass into history. Who would ever have imagined that Saudi women, from all age groups, would be so interested in wearing traditional clothing?
For the last decade, Jalabiya has become increasingly popular during the holy month of Ramadan in the Kingdom. Women enjoy wearing a traditional dress which echoes the spiritual atmosphere of the fast. Islam has played a great role in traditional Saudi Arabian costume since it is responsible for promoting modest attire.
Due to a growing demand, especially from the younger generation, the Jalabiya’s long established shape has been infused with a new sense of fashion.
Jinan Raidan was one of the very first Saudi designers to present special collections for the month of Ramadan.
Sold under the brand name “Jinan,” her first collection established her in the market as it showed a Jalabiya with a modern touch.
“It all started when my friends used to ask me where I bought my Jalabiyas, not knowing that I designed them myself. They asked me to design for them as well. This continued as a chain reaction which pushed me all the way to release yearly collections of ‘Jinan’ Jalabiyas,” says Jinan.
Her loose designs have just the right degree of low-slung slouch. The long gowns involve sinuous, draped jersey and voluminous shapes in lightweight fabrics. Their languorous, yet assertive shapes, offer a perfect balance. All have the same fine attention to detail and structure, as well as an indisputable seductive touch.
Jinan follows the trend in fashion toward more structure and less embellishment as well as a growing regard for quality and realistic pricing. The lack of embellishment has been replaced by bold jewelry, especially necklaces, which come in all kinds of shapes, colors and materials.
Jinan is aware that she is not part of the competitive brand culture but she describes her clients as “elegant, educated and fashion conscious,” from all over the Kingdom.
“Knowing that they wait for my collection every year makes me happy and motivates me. I keep the European trend as my guideline for setting the concepts,” she adds.
A stylish cut of colorful textiles is essential for a stylish Jalabiya. Jinan’s flagship design is the “princess cut” Jalabiya, which has remained over the years the most popular.
Motivation is also the key to Jinan’s successful business which also includes her involvement in the Zouari Salon & Spa of which she is owner and general manager.
“I do my best to save my energy for what I love the most — design and fashion. Nevertheless, the responsibility for my clients is what keeps me looking forward to color their holy month the same way I try to color my Jalabiyas,” she says.
This designer’s label is definitely part of the Kingdom’s niche fashion. Jinan Raidan has opted for low-key exposure and her long traditional dresses are hard to find.
That should not however, affect your desire for seeking something new and different. Owning one of her pieces is what exclusivity is all about.
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