“My eye was deprived of sleep last night

Deprived by the hardships of time

I was patient yesterday, the day before, and today

And I watch ten diminishing to eight”

The prelude to the Abadia showcase was not merely an introduction but a dramatic performance that captured the soul of a maritime era.

To the melodic strains of the Samriya "Jaza Al-Bareha," the performer Manayer presented the "Khamari" dance, a poignant portrayal of the heavy sorrow and watchful waiting experienced by the women left behind

The term "Khamari" itself speaks to the act of a woman veiling her face in her garment, embodying the silent tension of those awaiting the return of fathers and husbands from the pearl diving expeditions.

The second Samri followed:

“My beloved, I did my best

But fate was against me…”

This conveyed a sense of self-reproach and regret, the feeling accompanying the wait for the unknown, Whether it brings sorrow or joy, rest or toil.

The performance concluded with the final Samri:

“Be glad, my eye, good news has arrived for you

Tomorrow you will rejoice with your soulmate”

The performance transitioned through the heartache of the unknown, where one is caught between the hope of comfort and the fear of loss, finally culminating in a moment of profound relief and joy at the safe return of the divers.

Shahd Al-Shehail meticulously built her collection as a three-chapter novel, where each act corresponded to a Samriya that defined a phase of the maritime journey.

This was a story of life itself: grief, anticipation, and ultimately, the light of homecoming.

The "Al-Ghaus" collection draws its spirit from the traditional rituals of pearl diving and the personal legacy of Al-Shehail’s grandfather, who braved the sea as a rite of passage into maturity.

The designs featured Abadia’s signature dropped waistlines and a neutral, comforting palette suitable for both day and night. The focus remained steadfastly on artisanal quality and sustainable design, with garments intended to be worn for a decade rather than a season.

Even the bags were conceptualized from the functional tools of the diver, resembling the nets and buckets used in the depths of the Gulf.

Traditional motifs were integrated with a quiet clarity, showcasing the refined touch of Saudi artisans in every piece.

The textiles themselves evoked the patterns found on the "Wizra," the wrap traditionally worn by sailors, with skirts draped in a manner that mirrored the historic garment with precision.

Abadia possesses a unique stillness that allows every detail to resonate, avoiding the fleeting nature of trends to speak directly to both local and international audiences

The show concluded with a finale of undulating chiffon that captured the light like the moon reflecting on the midnight sea, bringing the narrative of the dive to a triumphant close.

-Mansooj: Your front-row seat to Saudi fashion-