JEDDAH — With Ramadan just around the corner, social enterprise Tashkeil hosted its annual Ramadan Bazaar that introduced the region's emerging designers in local fashion. For the fifth consecutive year, the bazaar launched its exhibition of multiple booths offering a wide array of Ramadan themed attire. According to founder Sofana Dahlan, Tashkeil serves as an incubator for fashion designers in that it promotes the region's creative entrepreneurs. Therefore, this bazaar is one of the organization's initiatives to achieve that goal. She added that some of the designers this year are first-time participants while others have been incorporated as regular vendors after experiencing previous success. Over 25 established as well as beginner designers displayed their trendy collections to visitors, ranging from abayas and Arabic thobes to traditional dresses. The designers included Seba Al-Amoudi, Wid Zahid, Hiba Merdad, Eman Al-Ansari and Nada Jlidan. Some Saudi designers focused on selling practical thobes that would make their clients feel comfortable. Nojoud Bakshwein, a Saudi female designer who was participating in the bazaar, said: “I focus on selling practical thobes for everyday use and the fabric of those should be suitable for the heat. "This is my first year showcasing abayas. The cost of these thobes is not more than SR1,000 or SR1,200. “Today, I found out more about clients' taste and what the market wants compared to the previous year. “Also, I can adjust to clients' needs so they feel satisfied and comfortable.” Many of the designers said they sell their collections on social media such as Instagram, while some have boutiques and studios in addition to websites. Mashael Alhussaini, a Saudi fashion designer also participating in the event, said: “This is my second year in Tashkeil and I found out about them from Instagram. “I started showcasing my designs in big bazaars such as Besat Al-Reeh but I stopped for a while. “I liked Tashkeil because it is different; the environment and everything is modern and you do not have the feeling of the traditional bazaar. “I like my section; it's isolated and very successful. I succeeded with them so I am really willing to continue. “The clients here are also different. They are more from the new generation and have a mentality that fits in with my designs, which are modern and funky.” Visitors were also given the opportunity to buy homemade crafts and household goods. The three-day bazaar, which took place at Kayan Space in Jeddah, ended on Sunday.
