Mothers and Daughters by SemSem

Abeer Al Otaiba, Founder and Creative Director of SemSem, was inspired to create her collection by the special bond between mothers and daughters. At the heart of SemSem is Al Otaiba’s own daughter Samia, whose nickname «SemSem,» means sesame seed in Arabic.

SemSem incorporates two widely recognized Egyptian symbols — the triangle and the lotus flower – into the branding and clothing design. The lotus flower represents the sun in ancient Egyptian culture, and signifies rebirth and creation, while the triangle motif evokes the iconic pyramids of Egypt. These elements are treated with a sophisticated European sensibility and design aesthetic. The collection’s mother daughter styles are aligned with subtle design elements, balanced color palettes, and complementary fabrics.  Using the finest fabrics from all over the world, SemSem is proudly manufactured in New York City.

«Once I had my daughter, now two and a half years old, I was inspired to create a collection of simple yet sophisticated coordinating styles for mothers and daughters,» states Al Otaiba. «These fashions are luxurious yet wearable for the woman on the go and by giving a donation to a women’s empowerment organization each season we hope that SemSem will become much bigger than a fashion brand since it is a collection with a purpose.»

Al Otaiba grew up in Egypt and pursued a career in civil engineering before deciding to focus on her creative pursuits. Inspired by her French education, her Egyptian heritage, and her time in the Emirates, Al Otaiba applies a keen eye for detail to each piece in her collection. Al Otaiba is a committed philanthropist, mother, and wife of a Washington diplomat.

Just as SemSem epitomizes the qualities of a luxury brand it is equally informed by its mission and by Abeer’s charitable pursuits. SemSem will partner with organizations dedicated to supporting gender equality, literacy, health, legal awareness, and education among women and children. Above all, SemSem aims to support female empowerment especially that of mothers and their daughters.

For Resort 2016, SemSem is supporting The Association for the Development & Enhancement of Women (ADEW) a non-governmental, non-profit organization in Egypt. Specifically supporting ADEW’s Girls’ Dreams Program and the House of Eve Shelter for Abused Women, SemSem’s donation will directly aid in the advancement of safety, education, and empowerment for female heads of households and their children in Egypt.