Sahar Al Aufi
Founder & Creative Director
"Fashion is not just about clothes; it's about making women feel confident and beautiful in their own skin."
Sahar Al Aufi, a visionary Omani fashion designer, is renowned for her ability to seamlessly blend traditional Arabic aesthetics with contemporary elegance. With over two decades of experience, she has significantly influenced the haute couture industry through her brands Sahar Al Aufi and Melis. Her designs are celebrated for their luxurious fabrics, intricate embroidery, and timeless sophistication, catering to diverse clientele through wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, evening wear, and custom-made men's suits.
As a pioneer, Al Aufi has showcased her work internationally, including at New York Fashion Week, where her collection highlighted modern elegance fused with cultural heritage. Her commitment to quality, innovation, and the integration of Omani and Italian craftsmanship has established her as a leading figure in global fashion, inspiring women worldwide to embrace creativity and individuality through her designs.
Sahar Al Aufi: Pioneering Global Fashion with Omani and Italian Excellence
Sahar Al Aufi began her entrepreneurial journey in 1998 by founding Reflection Company while simultaneously pursuing a career as a designer and stylist in Italy, specializing in clothing trade and manufacturing. Over the years, she developed her expertise and in 2014 established two distinct brands: Melis and Sahar Al Aufi, each with specific clothing lines.
Melis by Sahar Al Aufi
Melis focuses on high-quality Italian and Omani-made garments. Its collection includes:
- Wedding gowns
- Bridesmaid dresses
- Mother-of-the-bride attire
- Prom, evening, pageant, and cocktail dresses
- Men's suits, tuxedos, sport jackets, overcoats, shirts, and pants
The brand emphasizes ancient tailoring techniques, meticulous attention to detail, and the use of premium fabrics sourced from Italy, France, Japan, and Korea. It specializes in haute couture, custom-made suits, and wedding gowns, offering unique, personalized designs crafted to clients' tastes. The company also employs 3D modeling technology for precise customization.
Collaborations and Global Expansion
In 2020, Sahar partnered with Giuliano Rubini, the owner of Clothing from Italy in Boston, to co-found Weddings from Italy, a venture targeting the U.S. market. This collaboration specializes in wedding gowns, groom suits, and cocktail and evening dresses.
Recent Developments
In 2024, Sahar introduced Melis Arabia, a clothing line inspired by Arabic styles, further emphasizing traditional craftsmanship and cultural aesthetics. All garments are produced in Oman and Italy using luxurious materials and blending tradition with modern elegance.