Miniature mannequins sold off in Abu Dhabi charity auction

A visitor takes a photo of ‘Nested Love’, a miniature mannequin by Sumayyah al Suwaidi at the Ghaf Gallery. Silvia Razgova / The National

ABU DHABI // Twenty glass cases containing miniature mannequins were auctioned off at The Ghaf Gallery to raise money for the Ewa'a Shelter for Women and Children.

The mannequins, which were more than 30cm in height, were dressed in beads, lace, ribbons, sequins, buttons and roses then sold to the highest bidder.

Some of the more glamorous designs were made up of crystals, acrylic pieces, wood, bird’s nests and even metal spikes.

The dress styles went from elegant, old-time Edwardian costumes, to bridal outfits and outrageous modern wear.

The bids for ranged from just Dh500 up to Dh50,000 for the more luxurious ones.

The show was devised by Sumayyah Al Suwaidi, founder of Grafika Boutique.

“This is not another trade show, it will enhance the fashion industry in Abu Dhabi and will the support the community,” she said.

Noor Shamma, 28, who works in media and marketing, created an elegant gold dress covered in beads and pearls.

“It’s all handmade, hand embroidered with a lot of needle work. I’m not into fashion, I’m more into painting, but it’s good exposure in the Abu Dhabi art community and it’s for a good cause,” she said.

Her 16-year-old sister, Dimah, also participated by creating a simple gown made out of rose petals. She said her design signified “femininity and romance”.

“She stole petals out of our sister’s wedding bouquet, which is in two days. She won’t find out,” Noor said.

One of the most simple designs called “Within” was inspired by Islamic patterns, said its designer Ameena Al Hammadi.

“It reflects our identity from within, and it’s spread to the outside. It shows interaction with our identity from within,” said the 23-year-old graphic designer.

“It’s for a good cause and a lot of people are coming in for that purpose,” she said.

Supporting designers who participated included Feryal Al Bastaki, Amal Murad and Hamdan Al Shamsi, as well as many others.