Fashion Forward Season Two Confirmed for October 15th- 18th @ffwddxb

Dubai Design District Supports Fashion Forward’s Second Season and its Role in Developing Regional Talent

Following Successful Inaugural Season, October’s Event Promises More Fashion, More Designers and an Even Stronger Developmental Programme

With the catwalks and front rows barely emptied from Season One of the Middle East’s definitive fashion platform, details of Season Two are being confirmed. Fashion Forward will return to Dubai in October from 15th-18th, during the Eid Al Adha celebrations, making it the perfect time for the regional fashion community to come to Dubai and experience the finest in Middle Eastern talent. The second season will bring with it all of the success from the inaugural event, plus some exciting new additions, including the support of Dubai Design District.

Fashion Forward Season Two promises even more designers – in October, the catwalk presentations will span four full days - once more representing the best couture and ready-to-wear pieces that designers in the Middle East have to offer. Fashion Forward’s developmental programme, too, will grow, involving more international industry professionals, not only from the world’s leading academic institutions, but also decision-makers in global e-commerce, trend forecasting, and public relations as well as wider attendance by stylists and buyers.

More than 12,000 guests enjoyed Fashion Forward Season One; Madinat Jumeirah came alive with catwalk presentations, talks from established designers, academic panel discussions, and plenty to keep the region’s design elite entertained in between - with the fashion gallery, fashion café and, of course, the chance to shop, with the carefully curated selection of accessories at the Pop-Up store. Guests at Fashion Forward Season Two can expect to experience all of these elements and much more.

“Fashion Forward Season One clearly demonstrated the tremendous design talent here in the region, and we were thrilled with the widespread support from all corners of the fashion community,” said Bong Guerrero, Founder and CEO of Fashion Forward. “The participation from leading academic institutions, international industry professionals and the regional and global media means we have been inundated with interest for Season Two and beyond, which is such a positive step and solid benchmark, not only for Fashion Forward, but for the Middle Eastern fashion industry as a whole.”

Season Two will see Fashion Forward’s academic and developmental side expanded, with further focus on mentorship of emerging designers and engaging with wider sectors of the fashion industry.

Fashion Forward’s commitment to fashion and the development of emerging talent has been praised by Dubai Design District (D3), a new creative community dedicated to fostering the growth of the Emirate’s design, luxury and fashion industry.

Commenting, Dr Amina Al Rustamani, Group CEO of TECOM Investments, the developers and operators of D3, said: “We see Fashion Forward as a key industry partner working with D3 to nurture emerging regional talent and maximise the potential of the design, luxury and fashion industry. Businesses and individuals working in these sectors will contribute greatly to the diversification of Dubai’s knowledge economy.

“Fashion Forward’s inaugural season was hugely popular and I would encourage people to support its second season in October. The organisation’s on-going academic and developmental programmes are particularly important in helping to develop local talent. At D3 we are creating a world class creative home for this emerging talent where they will be able to operate alongside established international brands.”

Guerrero added: “We invite all who kindly supported Fashion Forward to join us again this season to see the event develop and grow. It is for anyone and everyone involved in the industry, and those who simply love fashion in all its forms. We look forward to welcoming even bigger crowds in October.”

Fashion and accessories designers as well as members of the academic and retail communities who are interested in participating in Season Two can contact Fashion Forward via www.fashionforward.ae. As a bi-annual fashion platform, FFWD is establishing itself as one of the region’s definitive movements to foster growth and enrichment for designers, the Middle East’s retail sector and the industry as a whole.