HIGHLIGHTS FROM OPENING DAY OF DUBAI FASHION WEEK SS'25 • Linger Magazine

September 1, 2024 marked a spectacular start to Dubai Fashion Week’s (DFW) Spring/Summer 2025 edition. Rizman Ruzaini set the stage with an electrifying presentation of their latest collection, followed by Erick Bendana‘s celebration of Nicaraguan culture and Angelo Estera’s impressive DFW debut.

The Italian Trade Agency’s La Moda Italiana: Dubai Chapter exhibition also opened to the public. The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) debuted at DFW with the inaugural ‘La Moda Italiana: Dubai Edition’ exhibition, showcasing the excellence of 25 Italian fashion brands across clothing, footwear, leather goods and eyewear. This event, the first-of-its-kind in the UAE, highlighted the strong and growing cultural and economic ties between Italy and the UAE. The exhibition is a significant addition to DFW’s SS25 calendar and was open to all until 5pm on September 3, 2024.

DFW, the region’s definitive fashion fixture, runs all week to September 7, 2024. The event is co-founded by Dubai Design District (d3), part of TECOM Group PJSC, and the Arab Fashion Council.

The Next Big Names: Designers to Watch

1. RIZMAN RUZAINI – A nostalgic journey

Malaysian design duo to the stars Rizman Ruzaini opened DFW with their SS25 collection, ‘Mustika,’ inspired by the 1999 film “Perempuan Melayu Terakhir” (The Last Malay Woman). The collection pays homage to Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, with the kebaya a central piece symbolizing tradition and elegance. Creative Director Ruzaini Jamil drew inspiration from a photograph of his late grandmother, Tok Puteh Surin, sparking a nostalgic journey reviving 1950s elegance. The collection also highlights traditional batik motifs, translated into modern designs with intricate embroidery and tambour beading, showcasing Rizman Ruzaini’s dedication to preserving and evolving Malaysia’s sartorial heritage on the global stage. The brand, founded in 2005, is committed to putting Malaysia on the world fashion map, focusing on sustainability and expansion into new markets.

2. AMJAD KHALIL – Darkness to Light

Libyan designer Amjad Khalil, who is regarded as one of the pioneers of the fashion industry in North Africa, showcased his ‘ Beyond Black ’ haute couture collection, leaving the audience captivated. Each piece displayed on the runway represented a chapter of transformation, a journey from darkness to light. Khalil’s designs reflect his personal experiences, with each dress embodying a specific mood he has encountered.

3. ERICK BENDAÑA – Inspirational Infusion

Erick Bendana presented his ‘505’ collection, masterfully merging cultural identity with an urban chic aesthetic. Drawing inspiration from his Nicaraguan roots, the collection showcased prints celebrating traditional dances and symbols, infusing the runway with a rich sense of Nicaraguan heritage. The presentation culminated in breathtaking evening and bridal gowns, capturing the romantic elegance that defines the Erick Bendana brand.

4. ANGELO ESTERA – Stylish Travels

Renowned Filipino fashion designer Angelo Estera made his grand debut at DFW. His spectacular Spring/Summer 2025 collection, inspired by his travels from the Oriental Far East to the Arabian Sahara, was a beautiful fusion of Eastern and Arabian influences, offering visitors a window to a captivating blend of culture and elegance.