There were plenty of memorable moments at the inaugural Riyadh Fashion Week, from Halima Aden’s return to the catwalk to Ashi Studio’s homecoming
Riyadh Fashion Week has officially put Saudi Arabia on the fashion map thanks to a star-studded inaugural event that took place from 20 to 23 October. A showcase of innovation, craftsmanship and culture, the packed roster at Riyadh Fashion Week included Ashi Studio, Adnan Akbar, Arwa Al Banawi and Honayda, all debuting their phenomenal creations to the world and highlighting the prowess of regional talent.
Ashi Studio Celebrates His First Show In Saudi
Saudi Arabian couturier Mohammed Ashi is renowned for the romantic, structural marvels at Ashi Studios. He was the first designer from the Gulf to show at Paris Haute Couture Week and was recently featured in the Business of Fashion 500 list alongside fellow industry titans. Ashi Studios had never shown in Saudi Arabia before Riyadh Fashion Week, where the Maison opened the inaugural event with a collection titled “8PM: An Evening in Riyadh.” The collection marries multiple elements of The Kingdom, taking inspiration from its breathtaking landscapes, Bedouin culture and innovative architecture. Dramatic evening gowns, feminine expressions and an infusion of natural materials comprised his love letter to his hometown.
Halima Aden Returns To The Runway
Halima Aden graced the runway at the Honayda SS24 presentation in a triumphant return to the fashion world after a years-long hiatus; a fitting occasion, given the Maison’s collection is inspired by the resilience, bravery and determination of females working in outer space. Halima Aden’s all-turquoise ensemble featured a mermaid gown, voluminous coat and crystal-adorned headdress. The intergalactic collection was adorned with embellishments of crescent moons, stars and planets, with gemstones mimicking twinkling stars.
Brides-To-Be Took Notes
Riyadh Fashion Week provided a hefty dose of inspiration for those with imminent nuptials. There were theatrical, intricately embroidered gowns at Atelier Hekayat; a full-blown bridal collection courtesy of Fatima Alabdulqader; Adnan Akbar’s opulent marvels; svelte silhouettes on the runway at Tima Abed; and an abundance of white creations at Ashi Studio.
Adnan Akbar Was A Hot Ticket
Adnan Akbar
Adnan Akbar kicked off day two of Riyadh Fashion Week. Known as the first couture House in Saudi Arabia, the collection more than lives up to the Maison’s glittering reputation. A kaleidoscope of colours lit up the runway as gowns of purple, blue, pink and red sashayed past the FROW, rounded out by a strapless bridal gown complete with lace accents and a mermaid-esque train.
Karen Wazen, Nour Arida And Dana Hourani Sat On The FROW
Of course, for the first-ever Riyadh Fashion Week regional tastemakers descended to celebrate The Kingdom’s talents. Some of the famous faces on the front row included Karen Wazen, Nour Arida and Dana Hourani, who sat side-by-side at the Adnan Akbar show.
Tima Abed Celebrates Riyadh Fashion Week With A Dedicated Collection
Tima Abed
Tima Abed designed a special collection to celebrate the momentous occasion. Paying tribute to the region, the Jeddah-born designer infused sartorial elements from Arabian culture into her gowns, as well as extravagant embellishments. Think: feathers, traditional embroidery techniques and plenty of sparkle.
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