Not sure what you can and can’t wear during the Holy Month? Angela Beitz speaks to Emirati designer and boutique owner Sumayyah Al Suwaidi to get the lowdown on how to dress stylishly but respectfully.
During Ramadan it’s important to dress modestly and to be respectful. One of Abu Dhabi’s most stylish ladies, Sumayyah Al Suwaidi, is the owner and managing director of boutique Grafika, and also the creative director of her own range of creative abayas – Seen. We got her advice on what to wear during the Holy Month.
Why is it important to dress conservatively during Ramadan?
During the day that’s very important because you and everyone around is fasting and when you fast it’s not only from eating or drinking but it’s also from showing off your body, from talking badly and many other things, so dressing up appropriately is very important.
What clothes should you avoid?
You should avoid anything too revealing. Mini skirts, skinny jeans, midriff tops, tank tops, sleeveless blouses or dresses with high slits. In general, clothes that are too tight or inappropriate for Abu Dhabi.
What are some fashionable ways to look good during Ramadan while still being respectful?
Kaftans are very popular during Ramadan, because they are fashionable but at the same time very conservative, they come in long sleeves and short, and they are long and flowy so they do not reveal the shape of the body nor any parts that will make someone stare at you.
Tell us about your current collection. What pieces would be suitable to wear at the moment?
My current collection varies from kaftans and dresses for evening wear, which means for gatherings where you want to look fashionable and trendy, to casual abayas for daily wear.
Are your abayas designed to be worn on special occasions?
Most of my abayas are for formal and special occasions. I try not to get into the casual abayas much because casual abayas are available and sold everywhere around the country. For example, one of our Seen abayas that is more dressy and interesting, I would wear for an exhibition opening or an official function, but then when it’s time to go to work you’ll see me wearing a plain straight cut abaya with sleeves made of a different material to give it that designer touch. In general, the abayas at Grafika are unique, so women mostly buy from us because they have a special event to go to or because they want to look different.
What are your favourite ways to accessorise an abaya, kaftan or a long dress?
They are best matched with long necklaces, a matching clutch and, of course, a statement shoe.
What will you be wearing this Ramadan and why?
I will be wearing from my Seen collection, abayas and kaftans and some maxi dresses with covered shoulders for family gatherings.
Grafika, Delma Street, same building as La Coquette Beauty Center behind Trans AD, www.grafikauae.com (02 441 0511).
