Hussein Bazaza Spring 2017. Photo by Getty, courtesy of Fashion Forward.
This Thursday (March 23) the region’s burgeoning designers will debut their Fall 2017 collections at the 9th edition of Fashion Forward (FFWD). Vogue Arabia will livestream every single show here. Among the promising talents set to deliver their latest creations will be a number of the DDFC/Vogue Fashion Prize alumni members.
Hussein Bazaza, the first winner of the groundbreaking prize in 2015, is set to showcase his Fall 2017 collection on the first day of the industry-focused event. His signature design riffs include textile combinations, patterned collages, and asymmetric cuts that nod to his love for architecture. For Bazaza’s new collection, the designer took inspiration from a narrative about a Japanese girl named Akane. Set at the beginning of the second world war, Bazaza’s protagonist seeks to avenge her family, who were murdered by the enemy. Through the power of sorcery, she sets the rivals ablaze with a shapeshifting creature that has the head of a tiger and tail of a dragon. Expect motifs of the mythical beast to come to life on structured skater dresses, and his fabric mash-up silhouettes of lace, silk, and wool to be dotted with glittering details.
Hussein Bazaza Fall 2017 illustration. Courtesy of @husseinbazaza / Instagram
Returning to the platform after a yearlong hiatus is Jordanian designer Nafsika Skourti. The class of 2015 Fashion Prize finalist built her eponymous brand on sharp tailoring and an eclectic use of custom material. Opting for a presentation, the Central Saint Martins graduate explores draped dresses and asymmetric tops in crushed velvet. Long, slinky dresses and boat-neck toppers in monochrome, darted with paillettes inspired by the reflective surfaces of high-rises, will also make an appearance.
Nafsika Skourti Fall 2017. Courtesy of @nafsikaskourti / Instagram
The exhibition and retail space plays host to the region’s emerging accessories and jewelry talents, called The Showcase. DDFC/Vogue Fashion Prize 2016 finalist Roula Ghalayini returns for her ninth consecutive season. Recently picked up by Bloomingdale’s Kuwait, the designer will show her new line of signature cuff bags, sturdy bucket bags, and sleek clutches. Expect to see more of Galayini’s mastery at mixing industrial materials with luxurious hardware punctuated in royal blue, hot pink, and grape.
Rula Galayini Spring 2017. Courtesy of Rula Galayini
Fashion Forward will take place March 23-25 at Hai d3, Dubai, UAE.
Click here for 6 key preview highlights ahead of Fashion Forward Fall 2017.
