Lebanese Fashion Label: Assyla

Who are Assyla?
Hares Haidar, a former student of architecture, and artist Najwa Rifai Sinno.

What’s the deal?
Inspired by old hand-loomed fabrics and antique clothes, particularly those of the Bedouin community in and around the Bekaa Valley, the pair set about reviving old methods of embroidery, and knitting. All of Assyla’s distinctive items of clothing are unique and made by hand. They’re popular with wealthy socialites, especially women from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Where can I buy them?
At the Assyla house in Baalbek, which faces the ancient temple ruins, or at the Assyla boutique in Beirut’s Saifi Village (Said Akl Street, +961 (0)1 970 333). There are plans to open Assyla boutiques in London and Paris.