Syria has long been a cradle of art, culture, and craftsmanship, and its fashion designers are no exception. Today, the country’s rich history of craftsmanship is finding a new voice in the world of fashion. Whether they are based in Dubai, London, or Paris, Syrian creatives are taking the traditions they grew up with—from detailed embroidery to luxurious silks—and giving them a fresh, modern twist. In addition to making very beautiful clothes, they are also preserving heritage, and proving that fashion is one of the most powerful forms of expression. Below, seven Syrian designers you absolutely need to know about.
Rami Al Ali
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As one of the most beloved Arab couturiers in the region and beyond, Rami Al Ali, who founded his eponymous label in Dubai in 2001, has seen his creations on virtually every red carpet and glamorous A-lister you can think of, such as Naomi Campbell, Jessica Chastain, Carrie Underwood, and many (many) others.
Nabil El-Nayal
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The Syrian-born British-based designer’s journey has taken him far from Aleppo, where his family originally emigrated to northern England. Following a fashion education at art schools in Manchester and the Royal College of Art, he has now established his studio in London. He was selected as a finalist for the annual LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers twice, in 2015 and 2017.
Mariam Al Sibai
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Based in London, Mariam Al Sibai launched her eponymous label in 2017 in New York, and quickly gained a cult following, catching the attention of Gigi Hadid, Priyanka Chopra, and Eva Chen. A graduate of LA’s Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising college, the designer is known for cozy, expertly-crafted ready-to-wear with timeless appeal.
Zina Khair
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The Damascus-born entrepreneur and fashion designer moved to Dubai in 2012 following civil war clashes in her home country. Years later, she co-founded Le Marais 101 in 2019 alongside her partner Angélique Tournoud. Inspired by Paris’s eclectic Le Marais district, the label specializes in handmade leather accessories crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Yara Tlass
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Syrian-born Yara Tlass launched her namesake jewelry brand in Dubai in 2016 as a way to advocate for human rights and give back. She works in partnership with grassroots charity organizations so that a percentage from each sale goes towards supporting displaced Syrian communities in need.
Maya Chantout
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Originally from Syria and now based in Paris, Maya Chantout is a graduate of the renowned Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. Her impressive CV includes roles at Hermès, Chloé, and Céline, where she collaborated closely with Hedi Slimane. In 2018, she earned the prestigious LVMH Fashion Graduate Prize. Today, she serves as the creative director of French womenswear label Mirae.
Joana Hakki
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The designer founded her eponymous label in 2019 on the principles of slow fashion and sustainability, creating versatile and striking pieces that are meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans utilizing traditional techniques. By sourcing sustainable, eco-friendly materials and employing a zero-waste, made-to-order production model, Joana Hakki honors cultural heritage while promoting ethical fashion practice.
