Now that’s a fashion statement

Ahsan Apparel is South Africa’s first online Islamic men's clothing store. Aarif Saib spoke to the man behind the garments

ISLAMIC men’s clothing is traditionally imported into South Africa, but one innovative fashionista has blended local trends with a successful e-commerce platform.

Muhammed Patel, 32, is the owner and designer of Ahsan Apparel and began the company in Benoni in 2011.

“Ahsan is derived from the Arabic word ‘the best’. It is what the company strives to encompass in everything we set out to do, be it our friendly yet professional service or the finest quality Islamic attire you can purchase,” he said.

Ahsan Apparel is a premium brand for men and boys and began with Patel making thobes (the ankle-length robe worn by Islamic men) for himself.

“The intention was to encourage people to wear Islamic attire and also feel good and proud of their dress when doing so. I began making a few thobes for myself, then for friends and family. Thanks to the Almighty, within a matter of a year, I needed a factory to keep up with demand,” he said.

Patel’s decision to branch into Islamic apparel for men was due to the limited fashion choices available. “Since the creation of Adam, men have had a very limited choice for quality Islamic apparel, whereas women have surpassed us in leaps and bounds.

“For a guy who is always particular about the way I dress, wearing shirts, suits, and European garments, I too, wanted to express my dress sense as a Muslim. I asked, ‘Can I not then do so by creating contemporary designs using the best fabrics and have them made into thobes?’ From that, Ahsan Apparel was born,” he said.

The company has dressed international Islamic artists like Meelad Raza Qadri.

Currently employing 10 people, Ahsan Apparel is sold online and through local distributors in Durban, Joburg and Cape Town. It also has international distributors.

The online venture has been very successful, says manager Goolam Hoosen Loonat.

“We have established South Africa’s first online Islamic apparel store with a fully secured encryption and global delivery system. We can also be found on all major social networking sites,” said Loonat.

“We have this year introduced a junior range of boys’ thobes for children aged 2 and upwards,” said Patel.

The Souk has been an amazing experience. “Last year was our first year and the response was remarkable and well beyond our expectations. We look forward to great sales this year,” said Loonat.

Patel attributes his success to the support of his family. “None of this would have been possible if it were not for the Duaas (prayers) and the financial assistance of my mother who believed in me, my friends and family who assist in the sales and the support from my loving wife,” Patel said.

For more information visit www.ahsan.co.za