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. Make sure you look out for part two which follows tomorrow!
Touch of Pink: Endemage, Toujouri, Ezra, Amato by Furne One
Omani designers Endemage went for feminine looks in soft pinks, purples, white and corals. I really like this simple jumpsuit with white detail, a comfortable and pretty look for next spring. Toujouri incorporated traditional Palestinian cross stitch embroidery into their designs. A very feminine collection including sophisticated and contemporary designs. I love the fabrics used for this collection, which are mainly Italian silk organza and crepe de Chine. It gives it a touch of luxury. Designer Ezra went for a modern take on the 1920’s golden era of fashion. A collection that oozes glamour and includes extravagant evening gowns. A very diverse collection, with a little shimmer and sparkle. Eye catching items fit for a red carpet. This pink number caught my eye, the beautiful corset body gives it a sexy touch. The overall style of the gown reminds me of a Zac Posen or Christian Dior style evening gown. My final pick from this category is a coral number by Amato. A grand collection by a designer who has dressed several famous names from Hollywood. I think Amato is one of those designers who caters for a celebrity clientele, just like Ezra. They create artistic gowns, show stoppers, extravagant numbers that attract attention. Amato’s collection includes dramatic gowns in soft, sweet pastel colors. I like this coral number, the belt detail gives it a fierce edge. Very couture!
Black and White: Aziz Humaid, Dima Ayad, Essa, The Emperor 1688
Although most designers went for bright colors for their spring/summer 2014 collections, some opted for monochromes. I guess black never goes out of fashion. Aziz Humaid’s collection is very abstract and artistic; minimalistic black and white items. I like the fitted, long length dresses from his collection. This jumpsuit number in black and white caught my attention. Yes, it is quite masculine but I like the fact that it could easily be worn at the office. Dima Ayad got inspired by all things tribal and African. The black and white print is visible throughout the collection, mostly combined with vibrant colors. I like this dress because its flirty and sporty. A little black dress with a twist. From Essa’s collection I really adore this modest, long-length gown. The white flower detail on the skirt gives it a feminine feel. The Emperor 1688 showcased skillfully tailored designs for men, along with a few designs for women. I really love this black and white jacket-dress, the embroidery really reminds me of Indian embroidery.
The Blues: The Emperor 1688, Gisellablu, KAGE, Ezra
During Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week SS14 the color blue came out as THE color to wear next spring/summer and I spotted shades of blue during Fashion Forward Dubai as well. The Emperor 1688 should be on every men’s shopping list; crisp shirts, perfectly tailored suits, impeccable style! Although I am personally less thrilled about the suit-shorts and the canary yellow suit they showcased, I do really love the modern suits they design. Straight out of a GQ spread! I really like some items of Gisellablu’s collection, those inspired by nature. One dress stood out because of its green color and forest-like print. KAGE’s collection included a lot of geometric prints in bright colors. A very sporty collection, surfer chic meets catwalk cool as they would like to describe it. Perfect for a young audience. I really like this modest look, with blue print. It is eye catching and the print reminds me a bit of Escher’s (Dutch artist) artistic motifs. I added this light blue design by Ezra to this category because it caught my eye. It is like a different version of Jasmine’s (from Disney’s Aladdin) outfit. The stunning embroidery with similar style headpiece gives it a regal feel.
Note: We did not feature Dina Jsr, because we have already featured her new collection. Read it here: https://thefashionorientalist.com/2013/10/18/fashion-forward-dubai-dina-jsr/
Fashion Forward Dubai: http://fashionforward.ae/