Apart from the high-profile armed robbery that everyone has now heard about, the latest Paris Fashion Week mostly escaped the
circus-like ambiance of former seasons.
This quieter atmosphere enabled a greater spotlight on
notable showroom events, such as Fashion Forward Dubai (FFWD), a Middle Eastern
platform that made its debut in Paris this year, running from Sept. 30 to Oct 5
and attracting fashion buyers and prospective fans.
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| Design by Zena Presley (photo: Coste) |
Held in the popular Marais district, the presentation
showcased a “carefully curated selection” of apparel and accessory designers
who included Amira Haroon, Bedouin, Bil Arabi, Hâshé, Kage, Madiso, Maram, NS
By Noof, Orkalia, Rula Galayini, Salta and Zena Presley.
Their designs comprised clothing, jewelry, handbags and other
accessories, most of which stood out for the exceptional fabrics and other
materials used.
Syrian-born, Dubai-based designer Presley, for instance,
displayed delicate dresses with tailored cuts for her spring / summer 2017
collection.
Meanwhile, Bil Arabi's Nadine Kanso – who was born in Lebanon and is also based in
Dubai – showed her unique rings, earrings and bracelets, which she said are based on her
handwriting. This was her second show in Paris.
Ava Hashemi, the creative director of Hâshé, said that the
region has a new generation of designers who are forging new directions in
fashion, drawing upon their multi-cultural heritage for their singular
creations.
Originally from Iran, Hashem was raised in the United Arab Emirates,
and her work is “fueled by Middle Eastern culture, architecture, art and
environment,” according to the company. Her ready-to-wear line blends a modern
flair with traditional elegance.
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| Jewelry from Bil Arabi (photo: Coste) |
The FFWD, launched three years ago, has now showcased seven
events, twice per year, gaining recognition in the style world. It will enter
its eighth season on Oct. 20 in Dubai, presenting ready-to-wear, couture and
accessory designers in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region over four
days.
Endorsed by the Dubai Design and Fashion Council (DDFC) and
supported by strategic partner Dubai Design District (d3), the platform in August 2016 launched
an empowerment program called EPIC (Empowerment Program through Industry
Collaboration).
This is sponsored by the company Samsung Electronics Mena, and it aims to provide business development opportunities to regional fashion talent through a series of initiatives, a spokesperson stated. - Tasshon
This is sponsored by the company Samsung Electronics Mena, and it aims to provide business development opportunities to regional fashion talent through a series of initiatives, a spokesperson stated. - Tasshon
