Built in the aftermath of the 2019 bruit explosion, Gadir Rajab & Raquelle Saba (who initially met at a festival), have built one of the industry's fastest-growing labels to date. Recently gaining stockist status on ssense, you will see corsets, dresses, and oversized football jersey’s. The womenswear heavy label is created for the post-internet generation. You have probably seen new-age influencers such as Tatiana Chudnovskaia pictured in a corset piece and playboi carti rocking their staple hat. Originating in Lebanon and recently relocating to Melbourne, the arabic roots run deep, even referenced in this piece with the words “Habbibi” boldly printed across the chest. These designers have managed to create pieces with a vintage-esque, while also maintaining a modern edge. It's like stepping into a time machine that is going forward and backward at the same time.
When elite designers come to mind, few arabic creatives make it to that list.Gadir and Raquelle, both of Lebanese descent and having grown up with immigrant backgrounds, started Raga Malak in 2019 in Beirut, within the ongoing economic challenges in Lebanon. An almost “order out of chaos” situation. Their creative process represents a new type of creative entrepreneur- one who doesn't necessarily need a formal fashion education and can work from anywhere, not just a “fashion” city. Bridging the gap between western freeform pieces and more traditional pieces in the eastern world.
Malak incorporates arabic themes in their designs; those same themes which have been portrayed in a more negative light throughout the past few decades due to the seemingly never ending conflict in the middle east.
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Raga Malak serves as an inspiration for young designers looking to make their mark on the fashion world. By forging a unique aesthetic and staying true to their roots, Gadir and Raquelle are demonstrating that authenticity and storytelling are essential for emerging brands, but it is not needed to have the traditional story of a creative who worked in a fashion house and started their own brand after the fact. All that is needed to disrupt the industry is an Iphone, a unique edge, and an internet connection.
Their journey highlights how balancing cultural heritage with contemporary design elements can create an identity that resonates globally and influences trendsDespite being a relatively new brand, Raga Malak has already gained a strong following and caught the eye of fashion industry veterans, including among major celebrities like Kanye West, who raquelle has collaborated with on various yeezy projects. This success can be attributed to their bold designs that combine Y2K-inspired aesthetics, but take it to another level. With a signature style that feels dark and rebellious, Raga Malak’s pieces channel a raw, modern tone, featuring bare bones pieces like this bomber jacket with no torso. Or this halter top that looks like an outfit straight out of mortal combat.
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This unique aesthetic has resonated with fashion-forward audiences, especially those who appreciate the blend of traditional and contemporary styles, making Raga Malak a go-to for those seeking edgy, culturally resonant clothing.
Malak is not just crafting apparel but sparking dialogue around cultural identity and creative expression, making it one of the most exciting brands to watch in today's fashion landscape.
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