MAYADA KHAMMU

‘YOUNG BLOOD’ is a reflection of the political voice of these second generation British-Arabs. As the dictators had their rise in the 80s, their fall is now with the Arab Spring, as the young generation is fighting against the old constraints and shaping a new reality.

This collection tells the tale of the New Age nomad, with roots in two different worlds. “We want to hold on to our Arabic culture, while at the same time moving forward with the times,” says May. The modern and the traditional are represented through the contemporary shapes, conventional techniques and detailing.

In order to move forward, one must know their past – the essence of the collection. Traditional Bedouin techniques are re-used as a reflection on the Arabic culture, as is the color palette of black and gold mixed with a taste of acid toned print - a nod to the colorful interior of the Bedouin tents.

The important meanings of jewellery and concealing costume of the Bedouin woman is reinterpreted for the girl who can show her own identity through the way she dresses. The sexual repression of the Arabic women in the past is represented through the use of strapping and harnesses, while oversized woven jackets serve as a cover from the world.

The collection challenges the conventional norms of the masculine and the feminine by incorporating original fetish materials such as latex in masculine shapes. “This is a representation of how women are equal to men,” explains May. Couture lingerie and functional swimwear pieces are integrated into the collection in contrast to the 80s Buffalo style street wear garments such as recreated MA1 jackets and biker jackets in luxury fabrics.

‘YOUNG BLOOD’ is about creating ones own identity and fashioning a unique style. “I want to move away from the disposable fashion culture of today, where everyone ends up looking the same,” states the designer.