Celebrating Moroccan Craftsmanship: Siham El Habti at the Sustainable Goals Banquet

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By Jeanine Ballone

As the world gathers for the much-anticipated 4th Annual Sustainable Goals Banquet during the 79th Session of the UNGA, hosted by Fashion 4 Development in partnership with the Human Kind Institute, the Education Above All Foundation, and Years of Culture, the spotlight shines on the artistic brilliance of Siham El Habti, a designer who embodies the rich tapestry of Moroccan culture through her exquisite creations. Elected as the African Art & Culture Ambassador in Benin in 2011, Siham has not only marked her place in the annals of Moroccan craftsmanship but has also inspired countless women globally with her signature Dream Caftans.

Siham's journey began in the picturesque landscapes of Morocco, where she returned after studying optics in Nancy in 1999 to immerse herself in her family’s esteemed workshop. Under the guidance of her mother, the renowned seamstress Mme Fouzia Berriah, Siham honed her craft, learning the delicate art of model making and the importance of quality materials. This familial legacy catalyzed her passion for fashion, leading her to further her studies at LaSalle College, a prestigious institution that bridged Moroccan fashion with global standards.

At the core of Siham’s work lies a profound respect for the artisans who have dedicated their lives to the craft. Siham believes in the essence of collaboration, fostering a creative spirit where knowledge and skills are shared among her team. This ethos reflects in each piece she designs, where precision and attention to detail transform fabric into a canvas of cultural expression.

With Dream Caftan, Siham aspires to create more than just garments; she aims to encapsulate the identity and elegance of each woman who wears her creations. Her designs are not merely clothing but are a celebration of heritage and artistry. The caftan, a traditional Moroccan garment, becomes a symbol of empowerment and individuality, allowing women to express their uniqueness while honoring their roots.

Siham’s color palette is deeply inspired by nature, with green holding a special significance for her. She views this color as a representation of purity, nature, and creativity, often integrating various shades of green into her designs to evoke a sense of tranquility and elegance. This connection to the earth is further manifested through the motifs and patterns drawn from Moroccan architecture and nature, which Siham masterfully incorporates into her work.

Her journey in fashion has seen her creations grace the stages of renowned fashion weeks and events across the globe, from Paris to Los Angeles, showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of Moroccan culture. Siham’s dedication to preserving the artisanal heritage of Moroccan sewing ensures that the legacy of the caftan continues to thrive in a modern context. Each piece tells a story, crafted with love and expertise, embodying the spirit of collaboration and cultural pride that Siham holds dear.

As we prepare for the Annual Sustainable Goals Banquet, Siham El Habti stands as a beacon of sustainable fashion, intertwining tradition with contemporary aesthetics. Her work not only highlights the importance of artisan craftsmanship but also emphasizes the need for sustainability in fashion. By supporting local artisans and fostering a sense of community, Siham is paving the way for a more responsible and inclusive fashion industry.

Sigma El Habti is not just a designer; she is a custodian of Moroccan culture and an advocate for sustainability. Her Dream Caftan collection is a testament to the power of fashion as a means of storytelling, cultural preservation, and empowerment. As the world celebrates the convergence of culture and sustainability at the banquet, Siham’s creations remind us of the beauty that lies in our shared heritage and the responsibility we hold to honor it.

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