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Designers from across the region are gathering in neighbouring Saudi Arabia over the holy month to showcase their special Ramadan collections.
Twelve talented creators are participating in the event that aims to support both emerging and established regional designers by highlighting their brands that are exclusive to the Middle East.
It’s the third annual fashion event to be organised by Fashion Forward Dubai (FFWD) and it is being staged this year in Jeddah’s department store Rubaiyat.
It features an impressive line-up of Ramadan and Spring Summer 2019 collec tions from designers such as Saudi-born Arwa Al Banawi, Emirati Mai Albudoor, Syrian-born Rami Al Ali and Bahraini Noon by Noor.
“Our first two editions have resulted in several success stories for our designers,” said Bong Guerrero, CEO and co-founder of FFWD. “We are confident that this momentum will continue as we tap into new talent and markets with our growing roster of fantastic designers.”
ARWA AL BANAWI
Arwa’s label features an eclectic mix of contrasts designed for the subtle woman. Her aesthetic is both classically cool and feminine. She has received recognition from vogue.com and holds a finalist position at Jeddah Vogue Fashion Experience.
IAM MAI
This is a vibrantly-hued experimental fashion brand created in 2014 and based on capsule collections. It transforms juxtaposing art and minimalism into modest fashion. Aside from fashion, Mai has a background in art, architecture, interior and graphic design. Her designs are based on self-expression of how she sees design.
RAMI AL ALI
Rami, who graduated from the College of Fine Arts in Damascus, started his fashion career in Dubai and Beirut. Today, he is one of the most sought after designers with clothing worn by several international stars such as Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, Kerry Washington, Chanel Iman, Aishwarya Rai and Vanessa-Mae. His modest line offers a hyper-feminine core aesthetic and can be worn by a blushing bride or an elite socialite.
NOON BY NOOR
The celebrated women’swear label was founded in 2008 by Shaikha Noor Al Khalifa and Shaikha Haya Al Khalifa. The cousins and friends since childhood studied fashion design in the US and after graduating, returned to Bahrain to bring their vision to life.
The designs are modern and effortless with a focus on striking prints and intricate embellishments. Its refined aesthetic fuses understated luxury with a playful femininity drawing on inspiration from both Eastern and Western influences. The tailoring is sharp with clean silhouettes and an attention to detail.
Stars and celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Solange Knowles, Alexa Chung, Kate Bosworth, Poppy Delevingne, Olivia Palermo and Blake Lively, to name but a few, have been spotted wearing their glam garbs.
Other brands featured include Beige, Bint Thani, Bthainia, Marina Qureshi, Nasiba Hafiz, Sara Altwaim and Zayan the Label. Accessories from Sarah’s Bag are also on display.
The event runs until June 3.
