Moroccan stylist Khaoula, known as “Zif 7ayati,” has sparked a heated debate after asserting ownership of the traditional scarf-styling technique known as “Zif Hayati.”
The controversy erupted when Khaoula took to social media to accuse singer Manal Benchlikha of copying her style after Benchlikha posted a photo of herself wearing a silk scarf in a similar manner.
On Instagram, Khaoula shared the picture on her story, accompanied by the caption, “Having a big artist as a fan of my concept is truly empowering. I’m thrilled to see ‘@zif7ayati’ slaying the world. Keep shining Manal!”
However, on Twitter, Khaoula posted a screenshot of her story, declaring, “It’s okay to be inspired, the problem is copying,” implying that Manal, a talented singer known for incorporating elements of Morocco’s rich heritage into her music videos and personal style, had copied Khaoula’s style.
Khaoula has long been associated with the “Zif Hayati” style, which involves draping and tying a thin scarf in a delicate and intricate manner. However, many Moroccans have taken to social media to point out that the technique has been used for centuries by women across the country.
In a series of tweets, Khaoula defended her claim to the style, saying that she had “made it fashionable.” However, she has faced widespread criticism for her attempt to appropriate a cultural staple.
“Zif Hayati” is not just a fashion trend; it is a part of Moroccan heritage. The technique has been passed down from generation to generation, and it is a way for women to express their culture and identity.
One Twitter user wrote, “The Zif Hayati is not just a fashion trend; it is a way for Moroccan women to express their culture and identity. It is disrespectful for anyone to claim ownership of it.”
Another user said, “The Zif Hayati has been used by Moroccan women for centuries. It is a part of our heritage, and we should not let anyone take it away from us.”
The debate over “Zif Hayati” is a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation. It is also a call for people to be more respectful of the cultures of others.
A source close to Manal stated that the artist herself never claimed that style as her own, yet always incorporated it and other elements from Moroccan culture in her music videos and personal style.
Khaoula did not reply to Hespress EN requests for comment.
Known on Twitter as “Carbonara”, the stylist in question went on to share a Tweet by the platform’s owner, Elon Musk, saying that “Competition is fine, Cheating is not.”
After numerous replies of people recalling moments of their mothers, sisters, grandmothers, and themselves styling scarf in a way known to be associated with Zif Hayati throughout the years, the stylist got defensive and said “taking artistic pictures with “zif7ayati” my concept, /styling “zif7ayati” with a modern fit also my concepts.”
While some social media users praised Khaoula as a trendsetter who made the fashion staple “fashionable,” many disagreed, asserting that Zif Hayati is a cultural national heritage that cannot be appropriated by an individual.
The incident has fueled a broader dialogue on cultural preservation and respect, with individuals emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and honoring the origins of traditional practices.
Over the years, headscarves have always been used as fashion staples, by some of the world’s biggest stars in models.
Notably, international rap icon Snoop Dogg, recognized for his impeccable style over the years, has frequently been seen wearing a scarf with a pattern similar to Manal’s. However, Snoop Dogg has never claimed ownership of the idea and even launched a luxury scarf collection with his wife, titled the “Broadus Collection,” in 2022.
The international supermodel, Imaan Hammam whose of Moroccan and Egyptian origins shined bright in a Versace scarf in 2022, wearing a full look by the global brands Fendi and Versace, which wasn’t a first.
The model often poses wearing scarves in fashionable ways, bridging between the newest fashion trends and her Arabic roots.
The Zif Hayati was originally made so that women tie their hair after shower, to dry their hair while retaining a healthy level of moisture.
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