Dubai, UAE, 2 February 2025: The opening night of Dubai Fashion Week’s (DFW) Autumn/Winter 2025 edition set a high bar for the upcoming programme, launching with a mesmerising opening presentation by Zeena Zaki. The diverse line-up also included an ode to Paris by MANEL, a tribute to Batik craftsmanship by TOTON and a nod to Moscow and the Silk Road by Angelo Estera.

DFW, the region’s definitive fashion fixture, runs at Dubai Design District (d3) until 6 February. The event is co-founded by d3, a global creative ecosystem part of TECOM Group PJSC, and the Arab Fashion Council.

ZEENA ZAKI

Zeena Zaki once again captivated DFW audiences with a stunning display of elegance, sophistication, and bold femininity.  From flowing gowns to structured silhouettes, Zaki presented a variety of eye-catching outfits in vibrant colours, with each piece making a dramatic statement communicating grace, confidence, and refined beauty.  Zeena Zaki’s artistry shone through once again, reaffirming the designer as a key figure in MENA’s dynamic fashion scene and setting an exceptional standard for Dubai’s fashion programme.

TOTON

Toton Januar’s TOTON 2025 collection, presented by Makeover Indonesia, was a powerful reflection of the designer’s response to global current affairs and challenges. In a quest to find relevance in a complex world, Toton sought purpose in a transformative collaboration with Batik artisans from Tuban and Cirebon, Indonesia, whose resilience in preserving ancient craftsmanship inspired the designer to create once more. The collection unveiled at DFW embraced traditional Batik artistry with upcycled fabrics and innovative use of materials such as paper clay to create a profound and intricate collection that nodded to fashion’s ability to foster connection and transparent conversations about our place in the world.

MANEL

MANEL made a stunning debut at DFW with the ‘Paris Day to Night’ collection, a tribute to Parisian roots and Dubai's vibrant fashion scene. The collection combined elegant tailoring, luxurious fabrics, and versatile designs that transitioned effortlessly from day to night. The colour palette drew inspiration from Parisian winters, blending earthy tones with opulent hues. Textured velvet, jacquard, Chantilly lace, and satin created a refined, understated opulence, with each piece embodying MANEL’s signature timeless, elegant and effortlessly chic style.

ANGELO ESTERA

Angelo Estera’s collection last night was inspired by his transformative journey to Moscow and the historic Silk Road.  Renowned for his passion for history and culture, the Filipino designer fused traditional Russian elements with Eastern influences to honour the ancient trade routes connecting the East and West.  The Autumn/Winter 2025-26 collection featured a rich colour palette of red, black, and gold, representing luck, mystery, and cultural prosperity.  The show’s highlight was a breathtaking gown that embodied the essence of this historical fusion, blending intricate patterns with luxurious silk to create a striking work of art.

Shows continue this afternoon and evening with:

   
• 4pm: NIF Global x London School of Trends
   
• 6pm: Paolo Sebastian
   
• 7pm: Weinsanto
   
• 8pm: Antoine Kareh
   
• 9pm: Velvety Couture

DFW’s success is possible due to strategic partnerships with leading global brands, including Visa as the official technology partner, Balmain Hair Couture as the official hair partner, Kiko Milano as the official make-up partner, ME Dubai as the official hospitality partner and Electra and Magnum as the production and audio-visual partners, respectively. Additional support comes from Fiji Water as the hydration partner and Bisou as the official lounge partner.

For the full calendar and to register, visit: https://dubaifashionweek.org/calendar/

For all Dubai Fashion Week events and news at: https://www.instagram.com/dubaifashionweek

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