Designed with the Arab woman in mind, Thuna creates footwear ideal for the regional climate, offering comfort without compromising on elegant design. MOJEH spoke with founders Altaf Almudhayan and Sharifa Alsulaiti to learn more about their design philosophy and recent Ramadan collection in collaboration with henna artist Dr. Azra Khamissa.
Ten years of friendship forged a powerful bond, making Altaf and Sharifa's business collaboration a natural next step. The founders, a dynamic pair, were in perfect sync from the outset, resonating the meaning of the brand’s name. "The word 'Thuna,' inspired by the Arabic word for 'pair,' symbolises the brand's vision: creating footwear that balances style and comfort, offering the perfect blend for the modern woman," Sharifa explains. Given the Gulf region's predominantly hot climate, breathability and compatibility with the lifestyle and wardrobe of its women are paramount. However, there is also the need to tailor footwear for the colder months, even if it may only last a short time, making these pairs truly versatile. "It reflects our commitment to bringing together elegance and practicality in every design," adds Althaf.
In their search for the ideal materials, genuine leather and mesh emerged as top choices, with mesh featuring prominently in their latest Ramadan collection. "The collaboration with Dr. Azra Khamissa arose from our desire to infuse our Ramadan collection with the deep cultural symbolism of henna art, which holds significant meaning in the region," Sharifa tells MOJEH. Embroidery on the mesh fabric mimics henna applied directly to the feet, adding a touch of cultural richness to any ensemble. "Dr. Azra brought a fresh perspective to the designs, drawing inspiration from the delicate beauty of rose fields in full bloom, making each piece a work of art that honours both tradition and modernity," she adds.
Despite being rooted in the Holy Month, the collection transcends it. Altaf envisions "the modern Arab woman styling the collection with elegant, flowing abayas, kaftans, or modest dresses during Ramadan, creating a look that is graceful, perfect for family gatherings." Sharifa adds, "Beyond Ramadan, the collection can seamlessly transition into everyday wear, pairing beautifully with both casual and formal outfits.”
When Altaf and Sharifa were asked which shoes from the collection they would pick for themselves at their launch event in Level Shoes, Dubai Mall, Altaf confidently picked the Scarlet Red ballet flat, describing it as a bold, updated version of a classic style thanks to its vibrant red colour and delicate mesh roses. Sharifa, on the other hand, chose the Veila Black heel — “a perfect blend of elegance and edge,” the designer enthused. The collection is now available at Level Shoes, Dubai Mall.
