The "Takreem" collection by Reem Al Kanhal was akin to a voyage into the collective memory shared by the designer and her audience. Inspired by her great grandmother and the intricate details of her jewelry and attire, Reem went beyond simple nostalgia.

She reinterpreted the Najdi dress with a contemporary vision and presented a layered construction that reflects movement and continuity.

This approach bridges the gap between memory and modern renewal in Saudi design.

By AlThaqafiya

The designer utilized materials such as poplin, silk, brocade, and "Tulle Al Munikhal" alongside traditional fabrics like "Khat Al Balda" and "Al Karta".

The fusion was balanced and intelligent as it connected familiar textures with modern execution lines. The pieces possessed a heritage touch yet served a contemporary function which resulted in designs that are both intelligible and wearable.

By AlThaqafiya

n my view, the sustainability observed in this collection was the greatest tribute to our heritage. It is well known that our grandmothers selected luxurious materials destined to endure. When they commissioned a garment, they ensured it could withstand various circumstances and be easily altered if necessary.

This philosophy was evident in "Takreem". The flowing cuts, detachable sleeves, and multiple styling options are details that ensure a piece survives more than one season in a wardrobe. It appears Reem conceived these garments as long term investments rather than concepts that expire after fashion week.

By AlThaqafiya

Ancient elements are approached not as fragile relics requiring cautious preservation, but as dynamic instruments for sartorial evolution. This philosophy manifests through the seamless integration of rich brocades and the striking linearity of Khat Al Balda into contemporary silhouettes, alongside the inventive weaving of the traditional Shaila directly into the hair.

A playful visual dialogue emerges as Khat Al Balda trousers are teasingly revealed beneath a sweeping dress hem. The objective transcends a mere superficial beautification of heritage; rather, it is a deliberate transportation of tradition into a modern epoch.

True beauty here is rooted in the palpable joy of the creative process, an aesthetic exploration guided by profound consciousness and masterful craft.

By AlThaqafiya

Ultimately, the collection balanced the past and the present. Reem Al Kanhal presented an enjoyable method of dealing with heritage. It was as if she gave the old a chance to live again in people's daily lives instead of being treated as museum pieces.

By AlThaqafiya

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


Editorial team: Ghadah AlNasser, Hajar Mubarak, Manar Khaled, Danah Alnuaim Wejdan Almalki.


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