JEDDAH: Saudi designer Nasiba Hafiz unveiled her latest Japan-inspired collection at Asian fusion restaurant Crustacean in Jeddah this week and she spoke to Arab News about the aquatic inspiration. The designer’s Koi Collection drew inspiration from Hafiz’s transformative 2017 visit to Japan, with the designer telling Arab News: “Koi fish often symbolize perseverance, strength, and transformation. In many cultures, particularly in Japan, koi fish represent the ability to overcome obstacles as they are known for swimming upstream and against currents.” Koi is actually the informal name for this species — they are often referred to as Japanese koi or by their Japanese name, Nishikigoi. The fish is known as the “swimming jewel” in Japanese culture, which is apt given Hafiz’s use of vibrant colors in her sartorial creations. “Their vibrant colors and graceful movements can also evoke a sense of peace, beauty, and resilience. I felt so drawn to them when I visited Japan in 2017, I felt like they symbolized how I felt, and it all resonated with my own experiences of facing challenges, personal growth, or the desire to transform in life,” the designer explained. Reflecting on the journey to create her collection, Hafiz added: “I designed the collection before COVID and I wasn"t sure how to proceed. Then, I decided to relaunch it with new fabrics and three-piece tailored suits, along with complementary pieces like neckpieces, creating a striking contrast. I am all about redoing, repurposing, and believe in sustainable fashion.” Each design in the Koi Collection features vibrant hues and exquisite detail, something the designer has built up a fanbase for. Meanwhile, Crustacean complemented the event with a coastal-inspired menu, enhanced by its modern Vietnamese interior, which features a sunken koi pond.