Cultural Couture

The Intersection of Tradition and Modernity with Fashion Designer, May Boulfaraj

Dalia Darweesh

24 March 24

Inspired by fabrics, colors, and patterns, May fell in love with textiles, as she learned the origin and history of each fabric during her previous job. “It made me envision them in different light, and even setups of the interior design world, and into my wardrobe and my kids'.”

Saudi Heritage

Known for her signature traditional vests for men, she shares: “Everything in the Saudi culture inspires me with a story and anecdote that I narrate in my designs.”

The Saudi heritage is diverse, and May has a special touch that combines originality with modernity, exuding the essence of the past.

As a fertile environment for creativity, everything about the Saudi culture and heritage inspires her in various ways.

“What our grandmothers left behind in ancient times in terms of traditional fashion is like a treasure that is passed down through generations,” and this is currently seen with Saudi female designers especially during the Saudi Cup.

With constant efforts by the Fashion Commission under the Ministry of Culture, May believes that all eyes worldwide will shift towards the Saudi fashion industry, especially since fashion designers keep offering unique, sophisticated and creative designs, and various fashion events, starting with the first Riyadh Fashion week last year.

Supporting Women in Fashion

Saudi universities also play an effective role in graduating knowledgeable and capable fashion designers, who look forward to competing in the global market.

May aims to encourage craftswomen and include their works in her designs. She also collaborates with female Saudi designers to create pieces that represent both brands.

“I believe that working as a team gets the best out of you and takes you out of your comfort zone, which reflects positively on the project.”

Wanting to support women in the industry, she also cooperates with King Abdulaziz University to train students who specialize in fashion and textiles.

Vision

“One of the most beautiful memories and dearest to my heart is the Insan collection, which was displayed at the National Museum in Riyadh in 2021, commissioned by the Ministry of Culture.”

The Insan collection, which fell within the Writing and Calligraphy Exhibition, shed light on human beings, who are all the same despite their differences in place, time, circumstances, and customs and traditions.

“This collection is a tribute to my dear father, who had an influence on my personality.”

Through her authentic creations, May aims to leave a positive impact on people by inspiring them to create and connect to the Saudi culture and heritage.

Her last advice is, ”be yourself, work with confident steps, and draw your strength from your originality and history.”

All images via maboulfaraj_collections