Lina Alhussan’s creative journey is a heartfelt tribute to her Saudi heritage and an ode to the Kingdom’s promising future. A graduate in Fashion and Textile Design from the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Alhussan crafted her final project with deep reverence for Saudi Arabia, giving birth to “Wahy,” a local brand that weaves the country’s rich heritage and culture into luxurious, hand-illustrated scarves.Honoring Tradition through ArtRecognizing a gap in the market for distinctive and meaningful gifts that truly represent Saudi Arabia, Alhussan embarked on her mission to create pieces that embody her country’s narrative. Her scarves are more than accessories; they encapsulate Saudi Arabia’s essence, countering negative stereotypes through vibrant and intricate illustrations. Her inspiration flows from every corner of the nation, be it its natural landscapes or historical landmarks. Particularly influenced by Islamic design, Alhussan admires its geometric shapes, floral motifs, calligraphy, and intricate patterns that have evolved over centuries.A Cultural Tapestry in SilkAlhussan’s inaugural collection is a testament to her enchantment with Saudi Arabia. Comprising four scarves, each draws inspiration from distinct regions within the Kingdom. “Asir” pays homage to generations of Saudi women who adorned the walls of their villages and homes with vibrant decorations. “Al Diriyah” captures the historic Salwa Palace, while “Alula” features a flower from the Nabataean tombs at Hegra. The “Jeddah” scarf is a nod to the coral architecture of the ancient town of Balad. Alhussan meticulously sketches these patterns on paper before translating them into digital drawings that are then delicately printed on silk. Collaborating with a local supplier, she ensures the scarves are crafted from high-quality fabric.A Fusion of Meaning and StyleBeyond cultural expression, Alhussan recognized the practicality of her venture. With the luxury market in Saudi Arabia experiencing unprecedented growth and the global scarf market predicted to expand by 4.5% from 2022 to 2030, Alhussan seized the opportune moment to launch Wahy. Her scarves, she notes, are not only fashionable and trendy but also carry a meaningful message, allowing wearers to complete their outfits in a stylish yet profound manner. While Alhussan initially connects with customers online, she aspires to showcase her creations in physical spaces, including pop-up stores.A Family-Fueled JourneyAlhussan’s path to success is paved with familial support. Fond memories of watching fashion shows and interior design programs with her mother shaped her creative aspirations. Her mother’s encouragement nurtured her confidence, while her own role as a designer instilled Alhussan with the skills she needed. Family remains integral to her endeavor; her sister Shahad takes charge of finance and accounting, turning Wahy into a collaborative family project.A Continuing Story of Cultural PrideLina Alhussan’s narrative of cultural pride, passion, and familial love is just beginning. While Wahy is currently centered on scarves and the tales they tell, Alhussan’s aspirations extend beyond. With determination and a touch of destiny, she envisions Wahy reaching a global audience, sharing the story of Saudi Arabia’s heritage and craftsmanship. As her brand continues to unfold, one thing is certain: Wahy’s journey, fueled by love for her nation and family, will undoubtedly resonate worldwide.
Wahy: A Tale of Cultural Pride and Hand-Illustrated Scarves by Saudi Designer Lina Alhussan
