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In the ever-evolving world of fashion, trends come and go like the seasons. From mini bags to chunky sneakers, the fashion industry is known for its cyclical nature, where styles from the past make triumphant comebacks. In a recent unexpected twist, a vintage accessory has risen to the forefront of the fashion scene: gloves. This resurgence of retro fashion has been embraced by celebrities like Beyonce, Blake Lively, Rihanna, and Ariana Grande, all donning the old-school accessory.
Opera gloves, in particular, experienced a runway renaissance, gracing the catwalks in Valentino’s Spring 2020 collection and Kim Jones’ tribute collection to Judy Blame at Dior.But how does a garment with historical roots dating back to the 16th century capture the attention of Gen Z? The answer lies in the creative genius of Jeddah-born, New York-based designer Alaa Balkhy. Alaa Balkhy, a former graphic designer, recently launched her eponymous label, Alaa bint Hashim, with a strong focus on delicate, hand-sewn gloves that are making waves in the fashion world.Alaa’s journey into the world of gloves began when she experienced her first winter as an adult abroad. “They just became an integral part of my style,” shared the 30-year-old designer. She added, “Obviously, I kept in mind that the gloves and their fabrics have to be wearable, ethereal, and comfortable.”These exquisite gloves feature transparent, hand-embroidered lace designs in subtle, elegant hues like pistachio and lavender. Their ultra-feminine designs can be worn alone with a gown or paired with a stack of rings and bracelets for those who seek to make a bold statement.
Remarkably, they are thin enough to allow you to use your iPhone without any hindrance.What sets Alaa Balkhy’s gloves apart is not just their captivating aesthetics but also their origin and production process. Each delicate glove is handsewn in Saudi Arabia at Ot Kutyr, a fashion house that embodies the principles of slow fashion. This approach not only supports Saudi designers and artisans but also aligns with ethical fashion practices, including fair trade and workers’ rights.Alaa Balkhy shared her vision for her brand, stating, “When Alaa Bint Hashim was coming into its own, one of the main aspects and missions of the brand was to have it based on slow fashion and ethics, which include fair trade and workers’ rights.” In an industry often criticized for its environmental impact and labor practices, Alaa Balkhy’s commitment to slow fashion and ethical production stands as a beacon of change.While wearing gloves may no longer be a necessity or a common fashion habit, Alaa Balkhy designs for a particular clientele. She caters to “the woman who is nostalgic for the past and its glamour.” Her gloves are not merely functional; they are expressions of a bygone era’s elegance and sophistication.
For those contemplating wearing gloves for the first time without feeling like they’ve stepped out of a period costume, Alaa Balkhy offers some advice: “I would suggest picking gloves with a color that contrasts well with at least half of your closet, to make sure they feel comfortable and fit your wrists and fingers perfectly and to avoid long nails, especially if the fabric is see-through.”In conclusion, Alaa Balkhy has breathed new life into a timeless accessory, making gloves cool and fashionable once again. Her designs combine ethereal beauty with modern utility, and her commitment to slow fashion and ethical production adds a layer of depth and responsibility to her brand. As gloves continue to grace the hands of celebrities and fashion-forward individuals, Alaa Balkhy’s name will undoubtedly be synonymous with the revival of this classic fashion statement.
