Riyadh Fashion Week is a significant step towards building a vibrant local fashion scene and industry in Saudi Arabia, focusing exclusively on local talent and celebrating sustainable craftsmanship.
Riyadh Fashion Week is set to make its debut in late October, showcasing the work of over 30 local designers in a four-day event. The season aims to build a vibrant fashion scene and industry in Saudi Arabia, focusing exclusively on local talent and excluding non-Saudi designers. This approach sets Riyadh Fashion Week apart from many other emerging style capitals, which often feature a mix of local and international designers.
Among the notable designers participating in Riyadh Fashion Week are Adnan Akbar, known for his couture quality bridal collections and grand gowns, and Tima Abid, who has previously presented her Saudi-inspired couture ideas in the Paris season. Yousef Akbar, a creator of eye-catching evening wear, and Atelier Hekayat by Alia and Abeer Oraif, specializing in contemporary glamour, will also showcase their designs.
The event is being hosted by the Saudi Fashion Commission, which aims to support the growth of the local fashion sector led by emerging Saudi talents. With a population of seven million, Riyadh is the third most populous city in the Middle East and offers high growth potential for the fashion industry. The Saudi Fashion Commission sees Riyadh Fashion Week as a significant step in their efforts to build a full value chain in the country and promote local creatives.
The opening show of Riyadh Fashion Week, taking place on October 20, will be a highly anticipated event by a yet-to-be-revealed designer at a soon-to-be-announced location. Additionally, the final day of the event, October 23, will be dedicated to menswear. The majority of the shows will be staged at the King Abdullah Financial District, a burgeoning hotspot in the capital.
This debut season of Riyadh Fashion Week follows the successful participation of Saudi talents in the Paris haute couture season in July, during the Saudi 100 Brands event organized by the Saudi Fashion Commission. The country has made significant investments in local fashion talent over the past few years, resulting in a thriving fashion sector that is now gaining international attention. Riyadh Fashion Week is seen as a milestone in Saudi Arabia’s remarkable journey of transformation in the fashion industry.
In conclusion, Riyadh Fashion Week’s debut season in October is a significant step towards building a vibrant local fashion scene and industry in Saudi Arabia. By exclusively featuring local talent and celebrating sustainable craftsmanship, the event aims to support the growth of the local fashion sector and showcase the creative potential of emerging Saudi designers.
