Muslims make up 22% of the world’s population and 5% of the UK’s, however their specific needs are often ignored by brands – whether high street or high end.
On Tuesday Dolce & Gabbana released its debut collection of hijabs and abayas, perhaps signaling a change.
Premiered on Style.com/Arabia, the collection features a range of the veils and outer garments in a neutral color palette of “luxe black and sandy beige”, reports dazeddigital.com.
Stefano Gabbana, who previewed the range via his Instagram account Tuesday morning, hinted at the collection in an interview with English-language Middle Eastern newspaper The National in July last year.
“I’m really fascinated with the Middle East and we’ve just completed a prêt-a-porter collection of abayas and sheylas,” he said, “Pieces have some lace, embroidery and some prints – but not too much. They will be available in the UAE this October.”
Western brands are increasing their presence in the Middle East – something illustrated by Chanel’s decision to present its Cruise 2015 collection in Dubai last year.
This isn’t specific to the Arab world; these brands are also catering more to the needs of Muslim shoppers around the globe. Last year Uniqlo released its debut hijab range and H&M cast a Muslim model – Mariah Idrissi – wearing the veil in its ‘Close the Loop’ campaign, showing a shift in the high street’s attitudes to inclusivity.
