Emirati Women’s Day: 9 Emirati designers to know

Fashion feels like a natural place to start when looking at the Emirati women creating their own labels today. Some are giving the abaya a new spin, while others are creating occasionwear, ready-to-wear or jewellery, but each has built a brand that feels personal to them. We’re introducing you to a few of the designers to follow, support and shop – and where to find their work this Emirati Women’s Day. As the founder and Creative Director of Dubai-based fashion house ONORI, Sharifa Alsharif Alhashemi brings a mix of creative instinct and business know-how to the label. With more than a decade spent around her family’s fashion and beauty business, she grew up with a close eye on craftsmanship and the details that give a brand its identity, later adding experience in finance and at the United Nations to her skill set. Launched in December 2023, ONORI reflects her love of timeless, feminine design, with Sharifa closely involved from the first sketch through to production. Family is at the heart of the label too, with her parents and sisters serving as a lasting source of inspiration. A post shared by Savolinna Jewelry (@savolinnajewelry) Founded by Hessa AlShafar, Savolinna Jewelry draws inspiration from her hometown of Dubai, weaving Emirati heritage into contemporary designs. From calligraphic coin pendants and marquise-cut solitaires to geometric rings, statement ear cuffs and playful spider earrings, the collection brings together traditional references and a more experimental approach to jewellery. The brand is also known for its take on modern layering, creating pieces that can be styled together or worn as stand-alone signatures. Celebrating the women of the nation this Emirati Women’s Day A post shared by فريال البستكي (@feryal_albastaki_fashion) Feryal Al Bastaki brings together Emirati heritage and a contemporary approach to fashion, creating traditional and haute couture pieces with a distinctly modern feel. Based in Dubai, her work draws on the beauty and history of Emirati dress while introducing fresh silhouettes, intricate details and a polished finish. Her collections are designed to celebrate Emirati identity while appealing to women looking for something with a strong sense of place and personality. A post shared by Aisha Baker (@aishabakerjewelry)