Zena Presley, a Syrian-born designer with an eponymous label based in Dubai, is the latest in a new crop of emerging Middle Eastern designers to add something worthy to the fashion conversation. Her inaugural collection features strong, feminine tailoring and versatile options for day and evening, but it is her artistic prints that really capture the imagination.
When creating her vivid prints, Presley was influenced by African culture —  its word-of-mouth customs, religious practices, and strong collectivist identity in particular. “The Zena Presley FW15 collection portrays my interpretation of the numerous facets of the rich culture that is Africa – a land that tells countless stories of courage and faith through colors and movements. From their stories, I have learned that if you mourn every tragedy, you will never stop grieving. I learned to celebrate the simple things in life and to see hope everywhere, and I learned that stands of true strength will live to inspire generations.”
By collaborating with a range of international artists from across the globe, she forged her signature identity as a designer. The imagery and scenes on her clothing depict struggle, survival, and hope. Her empowering message and cross-cultural contributions serve to invigorate a collection of wearable, thought-provoking clothes. In this feature, Savoir Flair debuts Presley’s work for the first time, but we know we have much to look forward to in the future from this promising young designer.
For an exclusive look at Presley’s Fall 2015 collection, click through the gallery.
Zena Presley Fall/Winter 2015 collection will be available at Harvey Nichols – Dubai, Mall of the Emirates from June 2015.
Photos: Courtesy of Zena Presley
