Fashion Forward Dubai (FFWD), the region’s progressive fashion platform, endorsed by the Dubai Design and Fashion Council (DDFC) and supported by Dubai Design District (d3), closed its March edition having presented 38 apparel, jewellery and accessories designers to an influential regional and international audience. 

FFWD welcomed over 10,000 guests comprised of industry leaders, fashion professionals, media and buyers who descended on Hai d3 to enjoy a three-day schedule of runway shows and presentations by 24 regional ready-to-wear and couture designers, view 14 accessory labels at The Showcase, partake in engaging talks and panel discussions, as well as attend networking and social events.

A model walks the runway during the Amato show at Fashion Forward March 2017 held at the Dubai Design District on March 25, 2017 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Seasoned designers returned to FFWD presenting ready-to-wear, couture and accessory collections, while 13 newcomers debuted their labels over the weekend. As with every season, designers exceeded expectations. Guests enjoyed stopping runway productions, meaningful collaborations and inspiring collections.

The anticipated ‘d3 Fashion Talks’ headlined by Nowness CEO, Daniel Coutinho, Designer Azza Fahmy, Sarah Hermez, Founder of Creative Space Beirut, CEO of Who’s Next and Premiere Classe, Etienne Cochet and Eddie Mullon, Founder and CEO of Launchmetrics took centre stage conversing industry topics. Discussions included Tradeshows and Showrooms; The Art of Digital Storytelling in Fashion; See Now, Buy Now: Does it work?; Creating a Brand That Lasts: The Azza Fahmy Story; E-commerce: How to Jump into the Online Marketplace; Getting Smart on Fashion; and Data is the New Black: Technology and Fashion.

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – MARCH 24: A general view during Day 2 of Fashion Forward March 2017 at the Dubai Design District on March 24, 2017 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Cedric Ribeiro/Getty Images)

Feedback received from designers, partners, regional and international guests speaks volumes to the dedication FFWD, together with the support of d3 and DDFC, have invested to follow Dubai’s mandate to establish the city as the creative hub in the Middle East.

Bong Guerrero, CEO and co-founder of FFWD, said, “Our March edition was a resounding success and demonstrates the progress of the platform, regional designers and the fashion community as a whole. Together with our partners d3 and DDFC we look forward to the next evolution of FFWD with our shared mission to support and nurture the region’s outstanding talent.”