The Saudi 100 Brands fashion event was an unforgettable experience, where I witnessed a debut hosted by the Saudi Fashion Commission at the Ready-to Wear Paris Fashion Week. As I entered the venue, the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, a stunning display of dresses and garments awaited me. Saudi Arabia’s talent shone brightly, showcasing their creativity and passion. It was a moment I had eagerly been waiting for.
Having worked closely with Saudi designers and the press for many years, I knew this day would come when the country would rise as a prominent fashion destination. Now, the Saudi fashion industry continues to achieve remarkable milestones and captivate the global fashion community. Saudi Arabia is carving out its own space and its influence is only getting stronger. The designers showcased seriously opulent, luxurious, and meticulously crafted fashion, jewellery, and accessories that highlight the proud richness of their heritage.
But how did this incredible opportunity come about? Well, it all started with the Saudi 100 Brands initiative, launched by the Saudi Fashion Commission in 2021. Spearheaded by the Commission’s CEO, Burak Cakmak, who was previously the Dean of Fashion at New York’s prestigious Parsons School of Design, this appointment underscores his vast expertise and experience in the fashion realm. As the leader of the Commission, Cakmak’s primary focus is on fostering the growth and development of Saudi Arabia’s vibrant fashion industry.
Thanks to this initiative, a curated selection of Saudi brands made their way to Paris Fashion Week, showcasing the contemporary Saudi fashion scene with designs from both established and emerging designers. Their designs embody the spirit of modern Saudi fashion, blending tradition with innovation and leaving a lasting impression on the global fashion community. Burak Cakmak played a pivotal role in promoting and supporting sustainable fashion in the country. By nurturing a culture of innovation and responsible design, the initiative has paved the way for a fashion industry that respects its roots, cherishes its people, and takes responsibility for its environmental impact.
The Saudi 100 Brands fashion show presented an impressive array of women’s, men’s, and unisex ready-to-wear fashion, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s diverse and contemporary style. Not only did it showcase the talent of the designers, but it also emphasised their conscious efforts to promote sustainability in the industry. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail evident in each piece demonstrated the designers’ use of sustainable materials and ethical practices. This approach showed their desire to create fashion that not only looked good but also felt good in terms of its impact on the environment and local communities. The fusion of traditional elements with contemporary aesthetics was apparent throughout the collections, creating a unique and captivating narrative. The designers drew inspiration from their rich cultural heritage, infusing it with modern sensibilities to produce fashion that was both timeless and cutting-edge.
What also caught my attention was the remarkable presence of female founders and creative directors among the designers. It was inspiring to see such a flourishing representation of female-led fashion brands.
The designers celebrated diversity through their innovative unisex designs, sending a powerful message that fashion should be accessible to everyone. The Saudi 100 Brands at Ready-to-Wear Paris Fashion Week showcased Saudi Arabia’s vibrant fashion industry, creativity, and sustainability commitment. The designers’ blend of tradition and innovation left a lasting impression. I look forward to witnessing the Saudi fashion scene’s ongoing evolution and global influence in the years to come.
Text by Suna Ahmed
