The fashion house unveils a collection that is an elegant evolution of the brand.
With unmistakable allusions to its Middle Eastern roots, Qasimi presented its Spring/Summer 2021 collection, the first since the unexpected death of founder and creative force, Khalid Al Qasimi. His twin sister, Hoor Al Qasimi, has taken up the reins to continue the work he started.
The collection’s earthy palette—drawn from the desert, rocks and minerals, fruit and spices—and military details maintain Qasimi’s DNA of clothes for the urban nomad. Inspiration was taken from Al Sadu, a traditional Bedouin weaving technique. Geometric patterns and stripes traditionally found on tents and mats have been woven into luxurious loungewear, adorning bomber jackets, blousons, trousers and bucket hats. Field jackets, romper suits and tunics in sandy tones call to mind the colours of the desert. A focus on craft is contrasted with an emphasis on technology that lends the collection a sense of futurism.
Sheikha Hoor gave the architectural streetwear a twist by creating a womenswear collection alongside. She sees the collection as a “soulmate rather than a romantic partner” to the menswear line. Indeed, the oversized looks carry the same architectural yet relaxed, flowing silhouettes as the menswear, and also incorporated Al Sadu detailing.
The collection was shown online, with a set that could have been a desert campsite and a soundtrack by Somali-born, UAE-based hip-hop artist FREEK. Khalid Al Qasimi always included nods to his homeland, and his sister is continuing his legacy. —Catherine Mazy
