I had the pleasure of speaking with Somayia Khan, the Creative Genius behind the award winning Somy London! I absolutely loved and really appreciated Somayia’s openness on the struggles she had faced as an Afghanistan women born and raised in Saudi Arabia, her life took a significant turn when her family forced her into an arranged marriage to her cousin who is 20 years older than her, in order for her family to receive the dowry (money, gifts), If that wasn’t bad enough… at the tender age of just 16 years old, Somaiya fell pregnant! I felt completely enamoured by Somayia’s, fearless, courageous and strong determination to get her 2 young children out of this terrible situation which Somy had endured for 5 years with her then husband. Thankfully she saved enough money in 2016 to book a one-way ticket and fled Saudi Arabia to London entering as a refugee with her children.

Now at first the difficult times still continued, when Somayia arrived in London…. from not being able to speak a word of English to experiencing homelessness, however this never stopped her positive can-do attitude and her dedication to learn English and the fire in her heart to get an education in England. Not only did Somayia pass her BA (Hons) in Fashion Design with flying colours, afterwards she successfully completed her Master’s Degree in Fashion Business Management all while raising her 2 children!!!

What a difference a few years make! Somy London fashion brand is born! In the world of fashion, where creativity is paramount, and innovation is revered, Somayia aka (Somy) stands out as a true artist and visionary from her diverse heritage to the global fashion stage is a truly remarkable tale of passion, talent, and dedication. Her immigration and heart-breaking story adds another layer to her unique narrative, making her a trailblazer in the fashion industry.

I have always been extremely passionate about Woman Empowering Women, and it makes my heart warm to hear Somy full of gratitude about her mentor Laura Timm, being an instrumental part of her success! Somy explained to me that Laura pushed her to chase her dreams and make them into a reality!

Somy and her mentor Laura Timm

And what an amazing reality it has been for Somy! Now a Bonafide fashionista growing her Somy London brand bigger and bigger each year, which has allowed her to become well-travelled exploring different cultures, art forms, and design philosophies, enriching her fierce creative designs. Her experiences during her travels and her interactions with people from various walks of life has giving her a broader perspective on fashion. Somy recognized the power of clothing as a means of self-expression and cultural celebration. Somy’s designs are a very important bridge between her Afghan heritage and her international experiences, which has given her the ability to create pieces that resonate across cultural boundaries. It’s no wonder this year Somy had the privilege to have one of her fabulous designs grace the red carpet at the 2023 Cannes Films festival!


Sandra Sisley looks stunning at the Cannes Film festival in a Somy London Couture gown!

Somy’s journey from nothing to becoming a fashion guru is truly inspirational, from creating 2 fashion collections at the prestigious London Fashion week, starting her own designer T-shirt line, creating a signature silk scarf line to name just a few of the accomplishments she has already achieved in just a few years Is a true testament to the power of talent, passion, perseverance and positivity. Her ability to blend her Afghan heritage with her global experiences has resulted in a fashion line that’s inspiring. She envisions her brand to become a global symbol of cultural fusion, inclusivity, and sustainability. With each collection, she strives to push the boundaries of fashion, redefining what it means to create clothing that is not just beautiful but also meaningful. Somy told me “she has dreams of one day having Lady Gaga wear her designs”, I am pretty sure that dream will also come true for Somy!

If you would like to learn more about Somy please go to: www.somylondon.com or follow her on Instagram @somylondon