Fashion Forward Dubai announces 28 designers for its milestone 10th season

Fashion Forward Dubai (FFWD), the region’s progressive fashion platform, endorsed by Dubai Design and Fashion Council (DDFC) and with Dubai Design District (d3) as Strategic Partner, has announced the line-up of international and regional designers who will show at the milestone tenth season from October 26th – 28th 2017. 28 designers are set to present their latest collections at FFWD’s new venue, the Design Quarter, in the heart of d3.

Since Season 1 in April 2013, FFWD has presented a multitude of design talent to the international and regional fashion community. To mark its 10th season, FFWD will host standout runway shows and presentations from seasoned designers and new names making their FFWD debut.

Returning FFWD designers include: Amato; Anaya; Arwa Al Banawi; Hussein Bazaza; Lara Khoury; Madiyah Al Sharqi; Masheal AlRajhi; Sadeem; Roni Helou, Royaled by RH, Varoin Marwah; and Zareena.

New designers showing at Season 10 are: Amine Bendriouich; Asya Krasnaya; Atelier Zuhra; Behnoode; Mohanad Kojak; Sara Altwaim; Uniti by Babak Vosoughi and Utruj.  

Additionally, ‘MINI Fashion Beyond Native’ will present three designers Dress Addict, Wael and Zaid Farouki.

A highlight of this landmark season, FFWD has opened its doors to five international designers. Anna K, Eudon Choi, João Rolo; Nabil Nayal, and Sid Neigum will make their FFWD debut this October following keen interest and increased demand from designers outside the region looking for a platform and gateway into the Middle East region.

Bong Guerrero, CEO and co-founder of FFWD said, “Since its launch FFWD has handpicked talented designers who represent the region’s individuality, creativity and diversity. This season’s robust line-up of shows and presentations are a mix of outstanding fresh talent and revered FFWD designers. The interest from international designers looking to showcase their collections at FFWD signifies its position as a viable platform for global visibility.”

Bong continues, “This October is a key milestone for FFWD as we transform the platform to encompass fashion, retail and entertainment on a much larger scale than ever before.  The signature move to the center of d3 is a pivotal moment in FFWD’s five-year journey and we look forward to welcoming guests from all over the world to experience the next step in FFWD’s evolution.”

Maitha AlSuwaidi, Executive Director, Marketing and Communications, Dubai Design District commented: "d3 is thrilled to be a strategic partner for Fashion Forward, which has evolved into a highly anticipated industry event in the Middle East.  We are proud to share that this year numerous d3 designers will be presenting their designs which gives testimony to our commitment in supporting local creative talent. Events like this give young, ambitious designers the opportunity to showcase their works and gain exposure of their brand, thereby becoming an integral part of the ever-burgeoning Arab fashion industry. We have no doubt that this year's event will be better than ever and a true celebration of the world of fashion."

As well as the region’s best ready-to-wear and couture collections with highlight brand collaborations and stunning productions, guests can expect to experience more creative elements than ever before including FFWD’s popular d3 fashion talks; runway shows from homegrown retail boutiques; creative installations; music performances, a fashion cinema; library lounge; beauty and brand activations with FFWD partners and d3 business partners.

Making its revival, ‘The Garden’ will feature an extensive array of the region’s homegrown retail concepts. From 12pm – 10pm guests can shop the best accessory and jewellery collections from some of the most well-known brands. To mark its 10 successful seasons, FFWD will present retrospective exhibitions from its archives with stunning photographic galleries of FFWD’s iconic moments from behind the scenes, street style and on the catwalk from season one to date.

For a second year Baume & Mercier will celebrate fashion and style as the official timekeeper of the eminent event. The watchmaker will collaborate with three designers – Hussein Bazaza, Zayan Ghandour and Rula Galayini - for an exclusive project. The three designers will present their own creations during the Baume & Mercier cocktail party on October 26th at FFWD. The unique watches will then be showcased at the Baume & Mercier boutique in The Dubai Mall during the month of November for a silent auction with the proceeds donated to Dubai Cares.

On October 25th, FFWD is introducing “d3 Preview”, an open house concept for d3 residents to celebrate fashion through individual customized engagement opportunities. This preview is a great opportunity for the public to discover d3 through a fashion lens, while engaging with d3’s fashion houses, showrooms and establishments, in a stylish and festive environment.