In a historic moment, Saudi Arabia, a nation renowned for its rich culture and heritage, is all set to host its very fashion week in the capital city, Riyadh, from October 20 to 23, 2023. Organized by the Saudi Fashion Commission, this landmark event is a platform for 30 local brands, showcasing a remarkable blend of emerging designers and established labels. Riyadh Fashion Week aims to catapult the Saudi fashion industry onto the global stage, fostering growth, development, and international recognition.
A Diverse Showcase of Saudi Talent
The Riyadh Fashion Week promises a mesmerizing lineup of Saudi brands, each with its unique style and vision. Among the participating brands are 1886, Abadia, Adnan Akbar, Arwa Albanawi, Atelier, Hekayat, Dar Alhanouf, Dazluq, Eman Joharji, Fatima AbdulQader, Hajruss, Hala Algharbawi, Honayda, Jubb, Kaf by Kaf, Lomar, Mazroud, MD29, Moja Majka, Mona Alshebil, Nabela Nazar, Noble and Fresh, Not Boring, Nour Dhari, Noura Suliman, Pavone, Tima Abid, Uscita, Yasmina Q, and Yousef Akbar. These visionary brands will showcase their collections on the runway, captivating an audience that includes celebrities, VIPs, buyers, and global industry leaders. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be live-streamed, ensuring a global reach.
Showcasing Designs at the Showroom
In addition to the runway shows Riyadh Fashion Week will feature a showroom where local designs will be proudly displayed. This showroom provides a unique opportunity for both local and international buyers to explore the diverse range of products and styles offered by Saudi brands. Visitors will have the chance to engage with designers, gain insights into their creative journeys, and learn about the inspirations behind their collections.
A Glamorous Opening Gala Dinner
The Riyadh Fashion Week will commence with an extravagant Opening Gala Dinner on October 20. This event will bring together more than 250 influential figures and key players from the global fashion industry for networking and the exchange of innovative ideas. The dinner will serve as a celebration of the achievements and potential of the Saudi fashion scene, recognizing its significant contributions to the cultural and economic development of the country.
Supporting Local Talent: The Saudi 100 Brands Program
Riyadh Fashion Week is an integral part of the Saudi Brands program, an initiative launched by the Saudi Fashion Commission in June 2023. The program is designed to mentor and support 100 local fashion brands over a period of 12 months, with the aim of enhancing the quality and competitiveness of Saudi fashion products and services. Through training, workshops, consultations, and exposure opportunities, the program seeks to elevate the presence of these brands in both domestic and global markets.
Empowering the Saudi Fashion Industry
The Saudi Fashion Commission, established by the Ministry of Culture in 2019, is at the forefront of fostering growth and innovation in the country's fashion industry. Led by Burak Cakmak, a former dean of fashion at Parson School of Design in New York, who was appointed as the CEO in August 2020, the commission regulates, supports, and nurtures the fashion sector. It aims to create an environment conducive to the industry's growth and development while preserving the nation's cultural identity.
A Landmark Event for Saudi Arabia
Riyadh Fashion Week marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia's journey towards diversification and modernization. It is a testament to the country's vision of embracing modernity while preserving its rich cultural heritage. Moreover, it reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to empower its creative talents and introduce them to the world stage. The event is expected to garner attention from regional and international media and audiences, firmly establishing Saudi Arabia as a leading fashion destination in the Middle East and beyond. Riyadh Fashion Week 2023 is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the vibrant future of Saudi fashion.
