Yahya Al Bishri is a true innovator, full of conviction and an endless supply of creativity. He entered the world of fashion in the late 1980s and refused to give up his vision despite extraordinary pressure and criticism.
He opened his first boutique in Saudi Arabia that carried the revised version traditional attire in 1990. His elaborate perspective and traditional roots inspired him to incorporate elements such as leather, embroidery and jean patches in his looks.
This concept was not received well by his family and community. “Many people were shocked I was developing the Thobe,” he said in an interview with the Washington Post. “I was accused of trying to destroy our culture.”
But support started flowing in after his meeting with King Abdullah, who commissioned him to design 1,000 bisht (outer cloaks) in support of his vision.
Today, Yahya Couture has designed for many members of the royal family, as well as international celebrities and royals. His luxury boutiques are located in Jeddah, Riyadh and the fashionable streets of Paris.
Follow us on
