Fashion Forward Dubai season two took place from the 15th until the 18th of October and was, like its first season, a great success. Established and emerging designers from Dubai, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar showcased their spring/summer 2014 collections during this event. It was a true fashion spectacle and an interesting look into the world of Middle Eastern/Arab fashion.
From all the designer collections that have appeared on the ramp last week, I have chosen my top picks. If you have missed part one, read it here: https://thefashionorientalist.com/2013/10/23/fashion-forward-dubai-season-2/
Modest and Feminine: Hema Kaul, Reem Al Kanhal, Madiyah Al Sharqi, House of Fatam
Hema Kaul produced a retro collection inspired by the glamorous 1960’s. This playful collection consists of baby doll dresses and flirty ensembles in soft, pastel shades. The designs are very feminine and youthful. My favorite item from this collection is a white number; cute, lace crop-top combined with a midi-skirt. Crisp whites are perfect for the summer.
Reema Al Kanhal’s collection is very minimalistic. White and light pastel colors take center stage. Most designs are very comfortable and casual looking. My favorite is this simple white t-shirt dress with flowy skirt. It is modest and simple and has an angelic look to it.
Madiyah Al Sharqi’s collection can be described as Marie Antoinette with a 1960’s twist. The color palette exists of soft pastel shades and whites, A solid trend for next spring summer. I like the intricate, sparkly detail and embroidery from this collection. It’s a very feminine collection, luxurious and pretty. My favorite from this collection are the mint green trousers and t-shirt style top. I just imagine the fabrics being super soft and comfortable, the overall look is still very chic.
‘The jewel collection’ by House of Fatam is inspired by their jewellery collection. This choice influenced the choice of colors, prints and textiles for their collection. I love the jewel tones, the black and white prints and embroidery detail used for this collection. It is a very luxurious collection, with silk fabric, velvet and chiffons. My favorites are the long and short capes, which gives it a more traditional Arab style. Those looking for modest designs will really like this collection.
Charbel Zoe, Endemage, Zayan The Label
Charbel Zoe designed a collection of haute couture, show pieces. While I doubt anyone ordinary would be wearing these designs to a party, I am pretty sure these extravagant pieces are perfect for either a red carpet event or a concert costume for a famous singer. A lot of glitter and glamour and sexy silhouettes. It is an amazing show to look at.
I really adore this long dress with purple floral detail from Endemage. Its modest and simply beautiful.
Zayan the label is known for its girly and feminine silhouettes. Zayan’s collection is perfect for those looking for cute dresses for next spring/summer. Dresses in meringue whites, silver-metallic and bright corals stand out from this collection. For some reason lately I’ve been a fan of jumpsuits and I really like this cute beige/pink number with girly, orange print.
Printastic: Amira Haroon, Dima Ayad, Tahir Sultan, Taller Marmo
With her new collection Amira Haroon tried to showcase different elements of the sea. Various shades of blue have been used to portray the ocean. Amira has used a lot of lace for this collection. One item of this collection stood out; a dark blue dress. It is a posh number and I really like the color blue used for this dress and the tight fit and loose, mermaid bottom.
As mentioned in part one of our review, Dima Ayad has been inspired by African-tribal culture for her new collection. This ensemble really caught my eye. The contrast of bright yellow palazzo pants with black and white tribal prints really goes well together. Perfect summertime outfit!
Tahir Sultan’s collection is one of my favorites from Fashion Forward Dubai this season. This collection deals with the notion of us as individuals and is a celebration of inner strength and beauty. What I like most about this collection are the work wear ensembles; blazers, jackets, long trousers and skirts. I’ve chosen this ensemble because it stands out. The jacket with funky print is a must have, combined with the skirt and plain top it is a funky feminine look. Love it!
Taller Marmo are known for their East meets West designs and presented their second collection during Fashion Forward. The designer duo behind the brand were inspired by Egyptian-Italian singer Dalida, a singer popular between the fifties and sixties. For this collection the designers were especially attracted to shimmering and shining fabrics. One design instantly caught my eye; an ensemble consisting of a baby blue crop-top and maxi skirt with flower print. This skirt is beautiful! I am a sucker for maxi skirts and this is one I would love to add to my wardrobe.
Fashion Forward Dubai: http://fashionforward.ae/