By The Arabian Leaders
Published on: 30-06-2025
ARWÁ: Arwa Al-Banawi’s New Chapter in Saudi Modest Fashion
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – In Saudi Arabia’s thriving fashion scene, Arwa Al-Banawi has carved a unique niche by merging Eastern heritage with the crisp tailoring of European fashion. Her bold step to rebrand her label as ARWÁ in December 2024 signals more than just a name change—it’s a declaration of global ambition and a celebration of the modern Arab woman.
A Creative Journey Rooted in Culture
Born and raised in Jeddah, Al-Banawi’s early exposure to art, architecture, and travel shaped her distinctive design perspective. After studying fashion in Dubai and Paris, she launched her eponymous label in 2015, bringing structured tailoring and cultural motifs together in a fresh, elegant style.
Her pieces are instantly recognizable: sharp blazers, flowing separates, and bold prints that speak to women who value identity, versatility, and confidence.
Design Philosophy: Tailoring, Modesty, Empowerment
Since its inception, Al-Banawi’s brand has championed:
- Impeccable Tailoring: Pieces designed to flatter while remaining versatile.
- Modern Modesty: Collections that respect cultural values yet push the boundaries of contemporary style.
- Empowerment: Bold statements and thoughtful design that encourage women to embrace their individuality.
“Every piece I create is meant to empower the women who wear it,” Al-Banawi often says—an ethos woven through each blazer, dress, or statement coat.
Rebranding to ARWÁ: A Milestone for Saudi Fashion
In December 2024, Arwa Al-Banawi unveiled her rebrand: ARWÁ—a move that reflects her growing global identity. The relaunch included a dedicated e-commerce platform, allowing her audience worldwide direct access to her latest collections.
The new campaign featured Gabriela Rickli-Gerster, a 70-year-old Swiss model, capturing the brand’s commitment to timeless elegance, inclusivity, and the idea that true style knows no age.
Key highlights of the ARWÁ era include:
- A new digital platform for seamless global shopping.
- Versatile, day-to-night pieces for the modern professional woman.
- A campaign narrative rooted in empowerment and authenticity.
Global Presence and Cultural Diplomacy
Al-Banawi’s designs have graced international runways, from Paris to Milan, with celebrities, influencers, and royals alike wearing her pieces. Her collections bridge East and West, challenging stereotypes about Arab fashion and celebrating Saudi cultural identity on the world stage.
Notable milestones:
- Collaborations with global brands that fuse Saudi craftsmanship with contemporary Western cuts.
- Features in major fashion publications, building her reputation as a pioneer in modest luxury.
- Her designs showcased on celebrities and tastemakers, increasing visibility for Saudi fashion.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Looking ahead, ARWÁ aims to lead by example in sustainability, with plans to:
- Integrate eco-friendly fabrics and ethical production.
- Promote slow fashion by creating timeless, durable pieces.
- Use her platform to advocate for mindful consumption in the luxury fashion space.
Empowering Women Through Fashion
Beyond fabric and fit, Al-Banawi uses her collections to send a message: modesty can be modern, identity can be powerful, and fashion can inspire confidence.
Her pieces frequently include subtle cultural symbols—Arabic calligraphy, traditional textiles, or nods to Saudi craftsmanship—woven seamlessly into modern cuts that appeal to global audiences.
What’s Next for ARWÁ
With the relaunch complete, Arwa Al-Banawi’s vision for ARWÁ is clear:
- Expand into more international markets with curated retail partnerships.
- Grow her direct-to-consumer digital presence.
- Develop sustainable collections that blend timeless design with responsible production.
- Lead cultural collaborations that position Saudi fashion as a creative bridge between East and West.
Conclusion: A Saudi Designer Shaping Modern Modesty
Arwa Al-Banawi’s evolution from an emerging Saudi designer to the founder of ARWÁ is a story of resilience, cultural pride, and groundbreaking design. By blending structured tailoring, modern modesty, and empowerment, ARWÁ is not just a fashion label—it’s a movement redefining what it means to be a modern Arab woman on the global stage.
As Saudi Arabia’s creative industries flourish under Vision 2030, designers like Al-Banawi ensure that Saudi fashion is celebrated worldwide for its sophistication, innovation, and authenticity.
