Photo: Instagram.com/honaydaofficial
From October 20 to 23, Saudi Arabia hosted the first-ever Riyadh Fashion Week, a paramount addition to the thriving design space in the Kingdom’s capital. Organized by the Ministry of Culture’s Fashion Commission, the four-day affair honored Saudi Arabia’s cultural and creative expression while paying an ode to its past and present. For the occasion, the King Abdullah Financial District welcomed a dazzling guest list including names such as Lojain Omran, Karen Wazen, Halima Aden, Dana Hourani, Yara Alnamlah, the Hadban twins, Nour Arida, Hala Abdallah, Leonie Hanne, and more.
Below, discover all the highlights from the inaugural Riyadh Fashion Week.
Day 1
Ashi Studios
For the first-ever show in his hometown, the renowned Saudi couturier behind Ashi Studios presented evening wear inspired by the haunting beauty of the desert at night. Drawing upon the illuminated charm of moonlight on sand dunes, the designer created an elegant vision marked by his penchant for romance and geometry. A dramatic rock installation remained at the center as models formed a square around it. The collection on display featured long robes, elaborately sculpted details, ball gowns with embellished trails, crystal embroideries, 3D organza flowers, and innate feminine grace.
Day 2
Adnan Akbar
Any conversation on Saudi fashion is incomplete without Adnan Akbar, a designer often credited with creating the first couture house in the Kingdom. It is only fitting that the second day of the first-ever Riyadh Fashion Week opened with his enchanting collection. Evident at once was the attention to detail that has long been a hallmark of his atelier as garments uplifted by floral applique, glistening beading, and expert fabric manipulation came down the runway. From sculptural wedding gowns to off-the-shoulder numbers, every piece was a testimony to the opulence Adnan Akbar is known for.
Tima Abid
Jeddah-born designer Tima Abid…
