PARIS, Jan 25, 2011 / FW/ — For Spring 2011, Zuhair Murad was inspired by a legend, the historical Tin Hinan, a 4th century woman woman of prestige whose monumental tomb is located in the Sahara at Abalessa in the Ahaggar or Hoggar region of Algeria.

Translating the queenly persona to today’s style, Zuhair Murad emphasized the everlasting charm of gold, silver and pearls, the jewelry that was found buried with Tin Hinan.

Using Tin Hinan’s desert home as another source of inspiration, Zuhair Murad translated the curvy lines of the sand dunes into voluminous drapes and the sparkling sand as metallic embroideries.

There is also some tribal element, perhaps from the Tuareg tribe who lived in the area during Tin Hinan’s lifetime. There are also modern elements like the wide belt that is reminiscent of Wonder Woman.

Yet, if we think about it, Tin Hinan pre-dated Wonder Woman by about 1600 years. Maybe, Tin Hinan was the muse for Wonder Woman’s jewelry… Now, that is something to think about.

[MARI DAVIS]
Photos courtesy of Zuhair Murad

Paris Hatue Couture Spring 2011