If we learned anything from the “cerulean blue” monologue delivered by Meryl Streep as Miranda Priestly in Devil Wears Prada, it’s that decisions made by leaders at the top of the fashion industry affect how we experience clothing and fashion in our everyday lives, whether we’re conscious of it or not. To stay abreast of these key players is to stay one step ahead of the game, which is why it’s so fortunate that The Business of Fashion created its BoF 500 index back in 2013. The BoF 500 rounds up the most influential players in the fashion industry across eight categories: designers, executives, media, retailers, entrepreneurs, creative class, models and muses, and catalysts for change. This list of people has been updated for the first time in three years, and 103 new members have been added. While there are dozens of Arabs already on the list, such as Elie Saab, HRH Reema Bandar Al Saud, and Amal Clooney, three new members from the MENA region have been added this year. Ahead, get to know the three new Arab members who have earned their seats in The Business of Fashion‘s BoF 500 Class of 2022.
Amina Muaddi
From developing original, high-end designs to creating mainstream trends, the Jordanian shoe designer Amina Muaddi is one of the most potent talents impacting the fashion industry today. The success of her namesake brand has made her a household name and secured her place within the BoF 500 Class of 2022.
Aseel Omran
The Saudi Arabian actress, musician and model Aseel Omran landed a spot within the BoF 500 Class of 2022 for her work within the fashion industry. This multi-hyphenate talent carries a lot of star power within the Arab world and has become a key player in the fashion industry. Some of her standout partnerships include L’Oréal Paris, Bulgari, and Dior (making her the first Middle Eastern spokesperson for the brand).
Rachid Mohamed Rachid
Egyptian entrepreneur and investor Rachid Mohamed Rachid was recognised by the Business of Fashion for his sway within the fashion world as the chief executive of Mayhoola for investments. This position makes him a key player within luxury fashion brands like Valentino and Balmain and an impactful player within the fashion industry at large.
