Fashion Forward Dubai returns to Dubai Design District (d3) for one of the UAE’s most anticipated events – four days of fashion shows and presentations, talks with leaders from across the fashion world, engaging collaborations, entertainment programming, and a chance to “shop the show” during the four days, from 30 October – 2 November.
In response to growing demand for social commerce by shoppers and the need for designers to connect directly with their customers, Fashion Forward Dubai has created a ‘shop the show’ opportunity utilizing technology integrated in the FFWD website. Visitors will be able to purchase catwalk looks during and after each of the shows.
“After years of developing this platform, we always have our ears to the ground to understand what both the design community and fashion lovers want and need. This edition of Fashion Forward Dubai reflects the evolving realities of fashion and retail,” said Bong Guerrero, CEO and Co-Founder of Fashion Forward Dubai. “We will take a more 360-degree approach that touches the many facets of the fashion world, from the most luxurious haute couture fashion houses for which Dubai is so well known to the hottest emerging brands from our region, and even high street innovators. We are proud to be part of creating a compelling and sustainable fashion ecosystem for the region through innovation, technology, and collaboration.”
Anchoring the latest edition of Fashion Forward Dubai are 21 total regional and international fashion presentations, featuring 12 designers showing at Fashion Forward Dubai for the first time, and 9 returning to the Fashion Forward Dubai roster. Guests can discover some of the region’s rising stars in The Garden, a showroom for designers ranging from jewelry, handbag, ready-to-wear, and interiors pieces.
Khadija Al Bastaki, Executive Director of d3, said: “Fashion Forward Dubai reinforces the credibility of d3 as a creative and design-focused hub and enables thousands of visitors to get to know the amazing work of the talented individuals based here. d3 has been a strategic partner of FFWD since its second season and through this synergy, we are pleased to further consolidate our commitment to supporting homegrown talent within the fashion industry. We look forward to seeing our local designers preview their new collections at FFWD 2019, as well as the collaboration of our business partners active in the food and beverage, entertainment, and retail sectors.”
A key aspect of the event will be the d3 Fashion Talks, which bring together leaders from across the global fashion and beauty business to discuss issues and ideas that push the industry forward. This season Fashion Forward Dubai will host well known personalities including Laudomia Pucci, Deputy Chairman, Image Director, and daughter of Pucci founder Emilio Pucci; beauty icon and entrepreneur Joelle Mardinian; sustainability champion Shahd Al Shehail; a masterclass on digital storytelling; Launchmetrics data-driven conversation on measuring influencer ROI as well as Grazia Academy short courses on careers in fashion.
Programming at Fashion Forward Dubai will also be highlighted by strong and relevant brand collaborations, most notably with free fashion design school Creative Space Beirut, the regionally renowned showroom Maison Pyramide, and one of the most recognized, and highly regarded, fashion support platforms in the world, Mercedes-Benz.
“Mercedes-Benz has a long heritage in supporting fashion events and iconic movements, around the world. Our support at this year’s Fashion Forward Dubai, is no exception. As the leading fashion platform in the Middle East, we are excited to be the sole automotive sponsor and bring to life our ‘How To’ campaign, in the region. We look forward to welcoming visitors to our architecturally impressive installation, to learn more about our mobility offering.” said Ali Kherallah, Marketing Communications Manager, Mercedes-Benz.
The event is expected to attract thousands of visitors to d3. “Fashion Forward Dubai continues to be a key platform for showcasing Dubai’s position on both the regional and global fashion, retail, and event landscape. As a highly anticipated occasion on Dubai’s event calendar, the show will explore new industry trends, uncover emerging talent and showcase the latest collections from some of our most celebrated designers” said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment.
Other strategic collaborations are defined by relevant retail relationships with luxury retailer Tryano, to that of contemporary street wear label American Rag, and accessible high-street fashion retailer, Splash.
Additional partners who are also playing a critical role in Fashion Forward Dubai’s return, from 30 October – 2 November, include support sponsor in5, longstanding official backstage makeup partner MAC, official backstage hair partner, REDKEN, alongside newcomers Polimoda, The College of Fashion & Design, MMG, Careem, and Vida Creek Harbour Hotel.
Fashion Forward Dubai is also celebrated for its vibrant social scene, and the 2019 official lifestyle partner, Sky 2.0, is sure to kick off this season in style.
