New York City witnessed a celebration of heritage and love on the Parsons BFA runway this May. Palestinian designer Zeighn Abu Al Teen (Instagram), a recent graduate with a BFA in Fashion Design specialising in Fashion Product and Jewellery, showcased her debut collection, “The Palestinian Wedding,” at the prestigious “Synergies” show.
However, this wasn’t your average bridal presentation. Abu Al Teen, a rising star sponsored by Swarovski and recipient of their AY23/24 Scholarship, unveiled a collection that transcended the typical notions of weddings. Titled “The Palestinian Wedding,” it explored the complexities of Palestinian identity through the lens of love.
Think intricate hand-crafted pieces that shimmered with Swarovski crystals, gleaming brass, and cool silver. Each of the five unique designs – earrings, necklaces, and body chains – drew inspiration from Abu Al Teen’s poem, “Love Palestinian-Style,” reflecting a deep personal connection to her heritage.
The collection resonated with the audience on a deeper level. As Abu Al Teen explains, “The Palestinian Wedding” is about the duality that defines the Palestinian experience: “With death comes birth, with destruction comes hope, with displacement comes a yearning for home.” This sentiment echoed in the interplay of light and dark, of delicate stones and sturdy metals.
Abu Al Teen, a member of the Palestinian diaspora, has honed her craft through internships with renowned brands like The Row, all while showcasing her work at prestigious events like Amman Design Week. Her design language transcends borders, using visual storytelling to amplify the voices of the Palestinian people.
“The Palestinian Wedding” delves into the rich tradition of adornment within Palestinian culture. Traditionally, these pieces served as a narrative, speaking of a woman’s lineage, her identity, and her deep connection to the land. Abu Al Teen translates these narratives into contemporary design, utilising contrasting colours and textures to capture the essence of being Palestinian.
This wasn’t just a fashion show – it was a love letter to a homeland, a celebration of resilience, and a testament to the enduring spirit of the Palestinian people.
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