An Eye for Muslim Style

An eye for Muslim style
By Carolyn Kissoon

Saturday, October 13th 2007


Zuryda Edoo
Photos: Dave Persad

By Carolyn Kissoon

Saturday, October 13th 2007

Whether its attending a religious function or simply going to the beach, practicing Muslims are supposed to be fully dressed.

And Zuryda Edoo knows that very well.

She has travelled to more than a dozen countries seeking the latest trends in Muslim wear for local women.

With few stores catering to the Muslim woman, Edoo decided to open her own establishment - Sakina's along Todd Street, San Fernando.

A practicing Muslim, Edoo spends a lot of time studying the scriptures and attending religious functions. "I am very absorbed in Islam and I am preparing to attend Hajj this year," she said.

Coming from a family deeply involved in business, Edoo has support and advice from all corners.

A mother of two, Edoo said she has spent many sleepless nights researching the latest fashions in Muslim garb. She has attended seminars in Turkey, Egypt, India and Pakistan on oriental clothing.

"I cater for the Muslim women, mainly in South Trinidad. I provide them with a variety of clothing which would suit any age. I do a lot of research and I try to source material which is suitable for Trinidad's climate," she said.

Although demand peaks only during the month of Ramadhan, Edoo offers a wide range of shalwars, bridal wear, topees and hijabs throughout the year.

"It is known that Muslim men and women are supposed to be fully clothed, so I offer the full range of items at all times," she said.

But there is one piece of clothing which has caught the attention of women across the country - swimwear for Muslim women.

Edoo explained that for many years Muslim women have been shying away from the beaches. "Many women don't go to the beach because they don't feel comfortable in the clothing they have to wear. The conventional beach attire does not suit the Muslim woman's style and practices," she said.

Edoo, who lives in San Fernando, said she learned about the swimsuits during one of her trpis to Turkey last year. "It was launched in Turkey last year, so we are getting the latest trends in Trinidad," she said.

Edoo said Muslim women no longer have to steer clear of the beaches, they now have appropriate clothing which will not only cover their bodies but protect them from the sunlight.

"These suits were tested and the material is ideal for water. The water runs off quickly and it protects you from ultraviolet light. Women no longer have to wear old dresses and track pants to go to the beach," she said.

The swimwear, which is made of nylon, come in all designs - some with hijabs, long pants, long sleeves and others without the headpiece and sleeveless.

"There are many men who would not want their women to be seen in conventional swimsuits, so now they have a choice," she said.

Edoo said the customers have already

started rolling in. "Many women did not know about the swimwear. They are now hearing and coming to have a look. They are interested in the styles. Many men have come in to buy for their wives," she said.

Edoo said she believe the swimwear would create a new lifestyle for Muslim families. "They can now go to the beach without having to think about what to wear. Other women who love the beach can now look nice, feel nice and don't have to hide behind anyone," she said.

Edoo said customers can also place orders which would be sent to India and made to their likeness. Orders are filled within six to eight weeks. "We try to meet the demand of our customers. We invite them to tell us what they want so we can source it and satisfy them," she said.

When she is not busy in her store or travelling in search of new styles, Edoo spends her time tending to her garden and reading on the history of Islam. "I am a very spiritual person and I try to impart a little of my knowledge to everyone I meet," she said.