FENDI has unveiled a special Emirati edition of its iconic Baguette handbag, bringing together Italian luxury design and the UAE’s traditional Talli craftsmanship in a collaboration with Emirati designer Khalid Shafar and Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council.
Unveiled by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi at Al Hamriyah Studios in Sharjah this morning, the limited-edition design celebrates the country’s artisanal heritage through the work of 12 Emirati craftswomen, who dedicated 435 hours over two years to handcrafting its intricate details.
At the heart of the collaboration is Talli, a traditional Emirati embroidery technique in which threads are intricately interlaced to create decorative patterns. Under Shafar’s creative direction, the craftswomen adapted the centuries-old practice to the Baguette, translating their inherited skills into a contemporary luxury accessory.
The design draws inspiration from the UAE’s natural landscape, with a palette spanning the deep green of palm trees, the grey and light green of the Ghaf tree, and mustard and gold tones reminiscent of Ghaf blossoms and desert sunlight. Silver threads also reference materials traditionally used in Talli craftsmanship.
A distinctive feature is Shafar’s reinterpretation of the Arabic letter, drawing on the geometric qualities of Kufic calligraphy and FENDI’s recognisable visual identity. Translated into a handwoven Talli pattern, it creates a meeting point between Arabic lettering and the Italian house’s design language. Dark green silk fringes add movement across the bag’s body and strap, while a gold-detailed metal clasp featuring the signature FF logo completes the piece.
The collaboration also carries a philanthropic dimension, with part of the proceeds supporting The Big Heart Foundation’s humanitarian initiatives for refugees and vulnerable communities worldwide.
For Irthi, the project represents another step in its efforts to preserve traditional Emirati craftsmanship while creating opportunities for female artisans within the international fashion industry. The council has developed more than 80 Talli designs and patterns through its programmes and skills development centres, extending the technique beyond its traditional application in Emirati dress.
Her Excellency Reem BinKaram, Director General of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, described the partnership as an opportunity to translate inherited artisanal skills into contemporary applications with creative and economic value.
Dima Hallal, General Manager of FENDI Middle East, said the collaboration brought together the house’s Italian expertise and Emirati craftsmanship, while supporting local talent and preserving artisanal skills.
By placing Talli at the centre of an internationally recognised design, the UAE Baguette offers a contemporary expression of cultural heritage, demonstrating how traditional craftsmanship can find new relevance within global luxury fashion.
fendi.com
