Fashion Forward is THE fashion event to look forward to twice a year in Dubai and this season, the seventh edition of the fashion platform for Dubai and the Middle East returned from March 31 to April 2 for the Fall/Winter 2016 collections.
During 3 consecutive days, FFWD showcased the best regional designers in a custom-made venue in the Dubai Design District where various panels like catwalks, fashion panel discussions and presentations were presented.
The opening show was with the Lebanese designer Hussein Bazaza who worked as a junior stylist for Elie Saab. Known for his intricate designs, he recently won the inaugural Style.com/Arabia DDFC Fashion Prize.
One of the most awaited shows of this edition was on the closing date with Amato Haute Couture, a favorite label in the region, which is recognized for combining the love for romance and dramatic luxury.
The most memorable collections so far was the one of Khullod Thani who showcased around 12 of her Bin Thani creations in a presentation format. The Dubai-based designer who usually presents her collections in London where she acquired a name for herself, displayed her ready-to-wear collection entitled “The Journeyer”. The collection is a combination of innovative cuts and softness with bold colors like orange, aqua green and navy blue.
The were also some new talents to look out for at the FFWD as always and that happened on the second day with the non-profit organization Starch Foundation, specialized in helping with the debut of Lebanese emerging designers. Each new talent that is part of this catwalk show presented about 12 creations of their own.
This edition featured Lobnan Mahfouz’ Per Vers Athleisure collection with its new take on workout clothes that are worn for the gym as well as the office and other social occasions.
There was also Bashar Assaf with his trendy minimalism featured in long silhouettes and color palette in shades of nude and other pastels. Salim Azzam, on the other hand, took the white shirt to another level by inserting it in various creations with an original touch of appealing florals and nature-inspired hand embroideries.
Other collections included Bouguessa, Army of One, Lama Jouni, Taller Marmo, Sarah’s Bags, Nathalie Trad and Zayan The Label.
