“Like mother, like daughter” – a partnership that radiates with elegance and love.
Across the Arab world, in places like Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Egypt, there’s a popular saying: “Like mother, like daughter.” Passed down through generations, this saying holds deeper meaning, reflecting the strong bond between mothers and daughters. It speaks to the similarities between them, not only in looks but also in character and habits, even down to the smallest details that might go unnoticed. Just as a jar's lid fits perfectly, so too does a daughter with her mother; align in life, decisions, and tastes.
The Origin of the Proverb
The origins of this proverb date back to ancient times, and there are two main stories that explain its meaning.
The first story dates to the Ottoman era, where mothers would hang laundry on the rooftops. Rooftops were often off-limits to girls to protect due to the conservative society at the time. If a mother needed something from her daughter while she was at the roof top, she wouldn’t call out her name for fear of being overheard. Instead, she would strike a pot to make a sound the daughter would recognize, signaling her to come up and help.
The second story reflecting the Egyptian inheritance is about a man who made large cooking pots. His wife would often help him transport them, but she repeatedly dropped and broke the pots. After divorce, he asked his daughter to help, only to find she made the same mistake as her mother. Frustrated, he said, "Like mother, like daughter," highlighting their similar behavior.
Inspiration for ‘Ein Ghein’
The founder of ‘Ein Ghein,’ Dima AlAzem, drew inspiration from this ancient proverb for her “Mom and Daughter” dress designs, which reflect the deep connection between mothers and daughters through elegant, modern styles infused with tradition. Dima’s personal life and the close bond she shares with her mother and daughters shine through in her designs. The purple dress she created symbolize this connection, creating not just stylish outfits but lasting memories to be passed from one generation to the next.
The beautiful purple dress not only exudes elegance but also reinforces the idea that daughters often follow in their mothers’ footsteps, whether in their personal choices or their shared love for beauty. Each piece embodies a special moment of generational unity, bringing together the past, present, and future.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
In 'Ein Ghein’ designs, there’s always a careful balance between the rich Arab heritage and contemporary fashion. Just as the proverb carries timeless meanings, ‘Ein Ghein’ preserves the connection between the past and the present. The purple dress symbolizes femininity and grace, where girls in today’s modern world celebrate their bond to their heritage.
Ultimately, this dress from 'Ein Ghein’ is more than just clothing; it tells a story that connects generations. It’s a symbol of eternal love and an unbreakable bond between mother and daughter, much like the proverb that expresses their similarities in spirit and actions.