Most first-generation Syrian Americans grew up thinking they had no cultural clothing to be proud of. On March 30, Students Organize for Syria at the University of Michigan proved that to be far from the truth. Guests gathered in the Michigan Union’s Rogell Ballroom to learn about the long and rich history of Syrian textiles. The event, “Threads of Heritage,” was the first of its kind. It was hosted in collaboration with The Wow Boutique, a fashion business and cultural initiative dedicated to preserving and reintroducing traditional Syrian textiles.
Featuring a display of traditional Syrian clothing, a fashion show and a live presentation from Dema Kazkaz, founder of The Wow Boutique, SOS brought the beauty of Syrian culture to light.
Up on stage, Kazkaz brought out remarkable textiles from all over Syria, explaining the labor required to produce each piece and the history behind them. Through direct collaboration with Syrian artists, as well as intense sourcing and restoration efforts, The Wow Boutique is working to bring these recovered pieces back to life — all in the face of major regional conflict and displacement.
As part of her process, Kazkaz personally travels to Syria in search of antique pieces from different regions. She explained that many textile shops are often unaware of just how valuable these clothes are to preservation efforts, with some craftsmanship techniques and styles of weaving on the brink of extinction.
“The Wow Boutique keeps Syrian culture alive through fashion by working with artisans and supporting traditional craftsmanship,” Kazkaz said. “Each piece feels meaningful. It carries history and tells a story, not just something you wear. It’s something more personal, something you can actually connect to.”
LSA sophomore Joanna Masri, SOS Co-Education chair and the daughter of founder Kazkaz, spoke to The Michigan Daily on her experience being a part of The Wow Boutique.
“We began The Wow Boutique five years ago — a mother-daughter business, two generations, one brand. Initially, we supported Syrian refugees in Turkey and later focused on Syrian artisans,’’ Masri said. “Now, we specialize in reviving abayas and mother-of-pearl products.”
Masri recalled a trip the duo took to Syria searching for antiques in hopes of collecting and preserving even more vintage and traditional Syrian garments such as the Qandoura.
“In the summer of 2025, we traveled to Saraqib, about 70 kilometers north of Hama, looking for the traditional Qandoura.” Masri said. “We knocked on doors, asking if anyone would share theirs. One household invited us for tea, where five women shared that the Qandoura was part of their dowry, stitched over months. They were preparing to wear them at a wedding the next week, and we celebrated with them.”
The beauty of this art form was not lost on them, she explained. To be a part of a culture that celebrates community and giving is something the founders hope to share with all who interact with The Wow Boutique.
“Inspired by this tradition, we now revitalize Syrian textiles with a modern touch,” Masri said. “Recently, Students Organize for Syria created a knitted sweater inspired by Saraqib, a Syrian textile, and our story — blending heritage with modern creativity.”
In an interview with The Daily, LSA senior Lianne Wimbush shared that this event opened her eyes to the extensive history of Syria and emphasized the importance of staying involved with different cultures.
“I loved this event,” Wimbush said. “It was very informative and I learned more about Syria through the local context represented in each of the textiles. I also really enjoyed seeing my friends wear the pieces, it made everything feel more personal, and I was honestly amazed by how detailed and complex the process of making them is.”
Amid the bustle of campus life, many students appreciate opportunities to feel connected to a culture that often feels too far away. LSA freshman Lujaine Sadoun, a Syrian American student and a model for the showcase, shared how attending SOS events has helped her make connections with fellow Syrian students and establish a sense of belonging on campus.
“Being Syrian American, it meant so much to me to see people take interest and engage with something that reflects a part of my identity,” Sadoun explained. “It gave me a sense of pride wearing and displaying these clothes, and also a sense of belonging knowing that my culture was being recognized and valued in this event.”
SOS has made it its mission to continue to educate and raise awareness for Syria, both on campus and to the general public. As the organization grows, they hope that their work at the University is able to aid the Syrian cause and help establish a strong sense of community for fellow students on campus.
Free and open to the public, “Threads of Heritage” is located in Hatcher Graduate Library’s Clark Library until the end of April. The student organization encourages everyone to visit and read about different pieces from all over Syria.
MiC Columnist Kinana Abdalla can be reached at kinana@umich.edu.