Syrian refugee, mother of four, and focus of the Academy Award nominated short documentary film ‘Watani: My Homeland’, Hala Kamil made her red carpet debut tonight at the 2017 Oscars in a custom look from Brandon Maxwell.

The two-piece gown consisted of a floor-length crepe black skirt, lilac velvet jacket with layered peplum, and a lilac velvet hijab which she styled with a Jimmy Choo ‘Sweetie’ clutch.

Brandon Maxwell’s inspiration for his work has always been the strong women surrounding him, and as the story of Hala Kamil’s extraordinary life moved him, he was thrilled to create the look for her on this special occasion.

Maxwell said, “To me, every woman is a star and every star has a story. Hala’s story sincerely touched me and I am truly honoured that I had the privilege to create this look for her celebrating this momentous occasion,” Maxwell said. “The goal for my collection is always to empower all women and to not just make them look beautiful, but feel beautiful as well. Hala’s strength and courage throughout her experiences is supremely admirable. Seeing her walk the red carpet full of confidence and elegance, and being a small part of her special night means the world to me. I hope she is having the time of her life.”