Iraqi-Egyptian Suez is a Stylistic Passage Through the Middle East

Growing up on foreign or westernised Arab streets often leads to an inevitable disconnection from one's authentic style origins. Wherever we go, we're bombarded with billboards showcasing garments that bear no resemblance to our identity or heritage. Even as East Asian fashion gains popularity, the unique essence of Arab fashion remains forgotten and silently observed from the sidelines.

This ethnic disconnect troubled Egyptian-Iraqi Suez Studio founder and curator, Serag El Meleigy, throughout his time in London. As he grew older, wiser, and more inquisitive about traditional Arab costume, Serag's yearning for identity-aligned fashion expanded. Thus, after graduating with a bachelor's in international development in May 2020, he seized the opportunity to venture into the world of fashion.

While it would be tempting to rush and start his own label, Suez, Serag chose the challenging but correct path. He interned and worked at reputable local labels such as Talal Hizami's Pacifism and Rav Matharu's clothsurgeon. In November 2021, Suez, a one-man show entirely run by Serag, was born.

"I run Suez myself, but I have an amazing network of people I can call upon when I'm in need of assistance," Serag shares with SceneStyled. "I'm fortunate to have many bright and talented friends doing amazing things, always willing to help - after all, 'no man is an island'."

Representing a 'passage through the Middle East' (akin to the Suez Canal), Suez's vision lies in reviving central elements of Arab heritage, evident in their diverse range of keffiyeh bucket hats and jackets. In a show of support for Arab businesses, Serag sources keffiyehs from two local shops in London, one Egyptian and one Iraqi, adding an ironic twist to his journey. From the Iraqi Kufa to the pan-Arab keffiyeh, and thanks to Serag's hand-sewn designs, Suez contemporised traditional Arab costume through the ages.

Suez's House of Wisdom t-shirt serves as a fashionable ode to the Islamic Golden Age in Science and Medicine, made entirely of 100% cotton tees with a relaxed fit, perfectly suited for the growing streetwear collection of Arab youth. Inspired by Serag's collection of Middle Eastern art and culture books, the tee embodies their creative designs.

"Inspiration comes in all forms. However, I find myself most inspired when reading about history or art. Words, in particular, serve as one of the most inspiring mediums, triggering the imagination in a less literal way than other art forms," Serag shares.

So, what's next for Suez, you may ask? In a recent visit to Cairo, Serag had the opportunity to stock up on khayamiya fabric from local artisans, inspiring a collection that will soon be launching as part of an enticing project scheduled for September. And sooner still, the brand will be unveiling the versatile Keffiyeh Curved Panel Trousers in around a month.