All categories of fashion and luxury, from clothing to accessories and jewelry, from cosmetics to body and air fragrances, from tableware to design, are now striving to meet the expectations of the Muslim world with capsules dedicated to Ramadan.
Here comes the sacred month when, through the long fast from sunrise to sunset, we remember to appreciate the taste of food, the value of water, the strength of prayer and meditation, the importance of generosity. We also better appreciate the beauty of beings and things, because abstinence creates empathy, and the eyes look with a new depth. This month is also, paradoxically, a continuous feast. Because breaking the fast can only be understood through conviviality and sharing. Every evening, the first meal after our deprivation is the occasion for a great reunion with family and friends, where one must be elegant to honor one’s hosts or guests.
A generous month, which ends with the sacred gift to the needy, alms for the fast breaking, or zakat al fitr, Ramadan is, like all holidays, a month of consumption.
The Muslim world, in its immensity, represents an exceptional market that deserves to be met. This has been done for a few years through creations specifically for Ramadan in all areas of fashion and luxury, from clothing to accessories and jewelry, from cosmetics to skin and air fragrances, from tableware to design. Comfort and lightness are essential during long days without hydration. Elegance and luxury are reserved for festive evenings.
Pulse has taken a long look at the novelties and surprises created by some of our favorite brands for this Ramadan.
Dior, pop-up stores and a filter
At Dior, capsule collections of sumptuous “Dior Or” outfits and accessories appropriate for suhur evenings are available in spaces specially created for this most sacred occasion. Dedicated pop-up shops have been installed in the main shopping malls of Riyadh, Kuwait and Dubai, like large jewelry boxes surrounded by 3D walls with studded motifs. Moreover, for the second year in a row, Dior has developed an augmented reality filter dedicated to Ramadan. Designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri’s studio, the filter is available across Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook.
Ounass collaborates with Bottega Veneta
Speaking of luxury, Ounass, the online “definitive home of luxury” has launched limited-edition Ramadan pieces for the Middle East with Italian fashion house Bottega Veneta. The collection brings to Ounass the house’s iconic, best-selling bags: The Mini Jodie, The Mini Loop and the Mini Pouch in three distinct colors, Lollipop, Parakeet and Gold. The collection also features two styles of women’s sandals: The Lido Heel and The Lido Flat. The entire collection features nine bags, two styles of sandals for women and for men rubber slides, one bag and three small leather goods.
Louis Vuitton, lace, embroidery and polka dots
Louis Vuitton has launched an exclusive capsule collection dedicated to modest fashion. Thinking of all the social occasions offered by Ramadan, the luxury house in turn offers up three signature elements, polka dots, English lace and embroidery, to highlight the elegant cuts of a silk blouse, day to night pajamas or a simple t-shirt. Peace, prosperity and love are the common threads of this small line, whose palette is dominated by emerald green. Added to the collection is the scent of a new floral fragrance with a name as precious as its bottle: “Desert Flower”.
Dr Azra Hennas Les Benjamins
Collaborations also abound, and we particularly love that of the famous henna artist Dr Azra, also a chiropractor and creator of accessories, who has designed a capsule for Ramadan with the label Les Benjamins, a streetwear brand based in Istanbul. Accessible online, Les Benjamins has just opened its own store in Dubai, at the prestigious Mall of the Emirates. The 14-piece unisex collection, titled “Peace in the Middle East”, features refreshing Pop patterns by Dr Azra.
The Giving Movement invents “modest” sportswear
TGM or “The Giving Movement”, the region’s first sustainable athleisure brand, and one that was born in the UAE, re-introduces its modest collection during the holy month of Ramadan. New additions feature the Modest Crinkle Abaya, and the Active Rib High-neck maxi dress which are available in a range of different colors in light to dark tones such as Opal Blue, Sage Green, Tangerine Orange, True Black, Tarmac and White. Ranging from flared leggings, to shackets, hoodies, abayas and hijabs, The Giving Movement’s modest collection has something for everyone.
Victoria’s Secret, satin dresses and oud bombs
Because a lingerie brand is in the best position to offer comfortable clothes, Victoria’s Secret has also thought of Ramadan, through a campaign that highlights the strength of Arab women. It embodies a journey of self-reflection through mosaic detailing and reflective mirrors. Celebrating women and their inspiring life journeys, the campaign aims to connect with local communities. Showcased in the campaign is Victoria’s Secret’s smoky and intriguing fragrance, Bombshell Oud, a deep, exotic twist to the Gulf’s signature scent, as well as an exclusive set of long-sleeved satin robes and long pant pajamas.
Marcolin, the “Italian touch”
Marcolin Eyewear’s latest collection of statement sunglasses and opticals are meant to furnish our Ramadan wardrobe with avant-garde designs and strong silhouettes that emanate a contemporary and timeless aesthetic. “Take your pick from the latest Guess, Swarovski, Tom Ford, Barton Perriera and Adidas collections that will add the perfect touch to complete your sleek Ramadan attire” said the company in a statement. All of them are part of Marcolin’s licensed brands.
Rituals Cosmetics and The Ritual of Oudh
Ramadan can be a challenging time, and we need something to soften up our days. Thankfully, cosmetic brands can help. This Ramadan, Rituals Cosmetics offers gifts that are much more than presents—they are meaningful experiences of luxury and happiness. For home, bath and body, inspired by a rare fragrant ingredient, The Ritual of Oudh collection is enriched with a woodsy, smoky and sensual perfume composed of oudh and carefully blended with patchouli. This complex and delightful fragrance will enrich your senses and surround you with warm notes.
Anghami keeps you company
Finally, because we need to be encouraged throughout long days of abstinence, and because every day of fasting ends with a well-deserved party, the streaming platform Anghami has “all the content to keep you company this holy month”. From audio series featuring some of the Arab world’s favorite actors, to a special collection of podcasts covering topics like meditation and spirituality, sport news and religious stories, to Quran recitals and live radio shows, they have you covered.
