Amal Al Raisi has done shows in London and Paris – though she never formally studied design. The well-known Omani designer first started creating fashion in 2007, although at the time she thought that only her friends and family would be her clients. Now she retails out of her own multi-brand store, Dar Al Aseel, in Muscat, as well luxury e-tailer Ounass and Kuwait’s Harvey Nichols. Known for her ultra-feminine aesthetic, Al Raisi recently launched the Aroos bridal line, which offers both bespoke pieces and a selection of dresses available for rent. She spoke to FTA about her new bridal collection.
Q Would you call yourself an accidental designer?
A Yes you could say that, because it wasn’t my first career choice. It all started when I was looking for my wedding dress but couldn’t find “the one.” So I ended up designing my own wedding dress, which received a lot of positive feedback from my family and friends. During this process, I realized how much I loved fashion design, and it took off from there!
Q And now you’re designing a bridal line?
A Launching a bridal line has always been in the back of my mind, since the first piece I ever designed was my wedding dress. Even though weddings have become smaller due to COVID-19, couples are still getting married and a smaller event should not compromise a bride’s dream dress. Many women have imagined their wedding since childhood so I want to help them bring that dream to life.
Q You will be able to rent these dresses – that seems so Millennial!
A I’m creating a selection of styles that allow brides to rent a dress for their wedding. Everyone has been affected by the pandemic, so some women may not have the budget they had first hoped to spend on a wedding dress. This option allows them to still have their dream dress, just at a more affordable price point. Also renting fashion items is becoming more popular these days due to the sustainable aspect.
Q Who is the Amal Al Raisi bride?
A She is timeless, feminine and a romantic at heart.
