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RIYADH: A new generation of Saudi designers is redefining what fashion means by looking to the past. From traditional architectural motifs to sustainable materials, young creatives are crafting handbags that celebrate Saudi identity and craftsmanship.

In the heart of Jeddah’s UNESCO World Heritage Site Al-Balad, a brand was born — not just a result of leather and stitching, but of memory, home, and identity.  

For Sara Alsaeed, the founder of Surrah, it all began while walking through the district’s narrow streets.

She told Arab News: “I was surrounded by stories — textures on old walls, the colors of roshan windows, traditional architectural features used for balconies or windows in historic Jeddah, and the weight of history. That’s when I began sketching.”

Inspired by heritage and driven by elegance, she imagined a modern handbag that paid tribute to Saudi culture. 

From the curves of ancient architecture to the palette of historic homes, every detail was carefully considered. 

Even the name Surrah holds meaning. In classical Arabic it refers to a pouch or bundle — something personal and protective. It is a word still used in the Najd region, and for Alsaeed it captured the soul of her brand: deeply Saudi, beautifully intentional.

Surrah began in late 2021 as a small stationery line during the pandemic.

She said: “In my third year of university I had time to reflect. I noticed a lack of Saudi representation in local products. I wanted to create something that felt authentic, that honored our identity.” 

As tote bags became popular, the brand naturally evolved and shifted toward handbags with the Ashiq Collection, inspired by Jeddah’s architecture.

“Each bag became a canvas, carrying pieces of our history in its design,” she said.

Surrah’s mission goes beyond fashion, and Alsaeed added: “We want to bring back the stories of Saudi women from the 1950s to the 1970s. To help young girls see where they come from — and to carry that heritage proudly into the future.”

While Surrah is proudly Saudi, its ambitions are global, and Alsaeed said: “As the Kingdom supports local talent more than ever, we have a chance to share our culture with the world.

“We want people from different places to feel connected to our designs, to be curious about the stories they carry.”

On the other side of the design world, another brand is making waves — not just for its style, but for its philosophy.

Remah, founded by Saudi designer Hatem Abdullah, brings a fresh take on handbags that is both ethical and deeply personal. 

“I was searching for something that reflected my identity — simple, luxurious, and meaningful,” he said.

That search led him to vegan leather made from apples.

He explained: “It’s not just an alternative to animal leather. It’s smart, luxurious, and environmentally conscious. Why create beauty at the cost of another living being?” 

For Abdullah, handbags are not limited by gender.

“They are expressions of art, taste, and culture … I design for people who appreciate stories and craftsmanship,” he said.

The name Remah, meaning strength, precision, and determination, was chosen intentionally. “We design for women who know what they want — calm, confident, and graceful,” he added. “Every piece embodies that spirit.”

Similarly rooted in cultural pride, another Saudi creative reshaping fashion is Abdulrahman Al-Abed, founder of Qormuz.

For him, inspiration comes from the forgotten, from “old walls, street conversations, and unfinished stories.”

He added: “I find beauty in things that still smell like history. I don’t chase trends; I chase truth.”

Qormuz emphasizes sustainability through meaningful production. He chooses fabrics like camel leather, natural cottons, and camel hair — materials that are both durable and native to the region.

From Surrah’s heritage-rich designs to Remah’s sustainable elegance and Qormuz’s soulful silhouettes, Saudi designers are weaving history into every stitch.

Through their work these designers ensure that Saudi heritage does not just live on but thrives.