Wisps of pastel hues, floral embroidery, petal embellishments, and soft gradients grace the debut collection from Olpha Studios, bringing to life the lifelong love of art cherished by its designer. Founded by Mona Serag - who initially studied architectural engineering before pursuing her fashion dream at The École supérieure des arts et techniques de la mode in Paris - Olpha reimagines timeless silhouettes with a nod to vintage charm and the slow elegance of a just-blooming flower.

Named Aster after the perennial flower, the collection draws inspiration from both the namesake bloom and an oil painting of flowers by Serag's grandmother, who instilled in her a passion for creativity. "Olpha is named after my grandma. This debut collection pays tribute to the painting of an Aster flower I have of hers," Founder Mona Serag tells Scene Styled.

Rich pastel shades of lilac, green, yellow, and pink suffuse the pieces, crafted in a way that captures the spirit of blooming late, yet beautifully. Simplicity and subtle embellishments characterise the designs, which Serag envisions as something "timeless that grows to be appreciated."

Taking five years to launch her label on her own terms after first starting with custom creations at her studio in Maadi, Serag set out to build an approachable and light homegrown brand. “There is a certain side to fashion that tends to be intimidating, I want to be approachable,” Serag adds. The results shine through in the relaxed yet artful execution of the Aster collection, which brings a subtly feminine and timeless flair.

Though blooming late, Olpha arrives in season. The floral details adorning minimal silhouettes evoke the charm of fresh blooms while capturing the wisdom gained through the journey along the way. Serag's designs blossom beautifully—a flowering of patience, passion, and skill coming to colourful fruition at last.