Syeda Amtul Saudi Gazette Toby, meaning My Thobe is an aesthetic brand created by Hatem Alakeel that caters to not only all fashion-forward men but young ones too. Alakeel's creations meets the traditional with the contemporary in perfect harmony. The young and dynamic designer got his calling for fashion when he went to New York and was smitten by the evolving fashion world. Unique in design, Alakeel's creations are unconventional and trendy.”Altering something that is traditional was very difficulty at first, and even more was the perception. However, when people realized that I wasn't changing traditions but merely adding something stylish to it, they started looking forward to it.” Variety is the spice of life, Alakeel said, now he is giving people more choices to choose from. He wants people to view the thobe as a coveted fashionable item that can be worn for every occasion. Working as a fashion designer for the past six years, Alakeel believes that the quality of the fabric and good stitching also play an important role in the creation of a dress as that is what makes it stand out. He defines personal style as “simple but with an edge.” Color is the next important step in creating an outfit and one has to keep himself up-to-date about the trending colors in the fashion world. Sky blue, beige and white are colors which Alakeel likes to play around with. Alakeel said that the ideas for designs can come at any time, at an art gallery or even in the shower; it is the execution process that requires hours and days to complete at an end. Although Alakeel started off his career designing thobes for adults, he later sensed the growing need to guide the fashion-oriented young boys in the right direction. And eventually Toby Junior was born, with Alakeel's nephew Salman being the face of the young and fresh brand. Designing for boys is something Alakeel loves.”I have more freedom when I design for children. I feel nostalgic too as it takes me back to my childhood.” Alakeel has garnered much success as a fashion designer and being a successful designer is no easy feat, as it consumes loads of time and energy. To unwind, Alakeel finds solace in art, music and architecture, strange as it may sound. Some of Alakeel's favorite designers from whom he derives inspiration are Sarah Burton of Alexander Mcqueen and Al Elbaz of Lanvin. To have a look at Alakeel's aesthetic collections, visit one of his boutiques on Rawdah or Prince Sultan street in Jeddah, or at Saks Fifth Avenue in Dubai, or log on to www.urtoby.com. “People should express themselves and remain true to their fashion aesthetic,” Alakeel advices all fashion enthusiasts.
