Runways, Roots, and Revelations
Dubai Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2025 kicked off strong, and it didn’t disappoint. From designers paying tribute to their heritage to exciting new debuts, there were plenty of talking points. If you missed it, we’ve got all the highlights right here.
Here’s everything you need to know.
١. Rizman Ruzaini’s ‘Mustika’ Collection
When Rizman Ruzaini takes the stage, you know you’re in for something special. Their SS25 collection, Mustika, didn’t just open the night—it set the standard. Inspired by the film Perempuan Melayu Terakhir, it was a love letter to Malaysia’s past with a modern twist. Ruzaini Jamil channelled memories of his late grandmother, Tok Puteh Surin, to deliver a show dripping in 1950s elegance.
Picture traditional kebayas reimagined with intricate embroidery and tambour beading, all while keeping it sustainably chic. If you thought the brand was just about Malaysian culture, think again—they’re on a mission to take over the world, one runway at a time. A perfect mix of heritage and haute couture, this duo isn’t just playing the game—they’re winning it.
٢. Amjad Khalil’s ‘Beyond Black’ Collection
Libyan designer Amjad Khalil took us on an emotional rollercoaster with Beyond Black. It wasn’t just fashion—it was transformation. Each piece was a chapter, moving from darkness to light, and honey, the drama was real. Every gown was a reflection of Khalil’s personal journey, like wearing his soul on the runway. Deep, right?
The collection felt intimate, almost like peeking into someone’s diary—but make it couture. Khalil’s ability to blend raw emotion with breathtaking designs left everyone speechless. This wasn’t just a collection, it was therapy—wrapped in silk and sequins, of course.
٣. Rym Saidi Closes Dima Ayad’s S/S 2025 Showcase
Catwalk cameos have been all the rage in recent years as celebrities and friends of brands step out to try their hand at walking the runway during fashion month. Today at Dima Ayad’s S/S 2025 showcase, Bazaar Arabia Junior cover star Rym Saidi closed the show in a pink floral-printed dress. The model-turned-presenter took to the runway to cheers from the crowd, which included regional industry insiders and VIPs. Rym, who initially faced resistance from her mother due to the reputation of the modelling industry in her home country, has made significant strides in her career. She first gained recognition after winning the Elite Model Look Tunisia competition, and later became a standout on the Arabic reality show Mission Fashion.
Dima Ayad’s collection, inspired by everything feminine, featured floral prints and was noted for its timeless, size-inclusive designs. Ayad emphasized the blend of softness and power in the collection, aiming for pieces that could be worn beyond any specific season.
٤. Erick Bendana’s ‘505’ Collection
From Nicaragua to Dubai, Erick Bendana brought his cultural roots to the DFW runway in a way that was impossible to ignore. His 505 collection was a beautiful clash of Nicaraguan tradition and urban chic. Bold prints celebrated his heritage, with nods to traditional dances and symbols, while his urban touches made it clear he’s not just about looking back—he’s moving fashion forward. The collection closed with jaw-dropping evening and bridal gowns that had everyone dreaming of a Nicaraguan wedding. Romantic, elegant, and completely unapologetic, Bendana knows how to mix history with modernity, and we’re totally here for it.
٥. Angelo Estera’s DFW Debut
Angelo Estera didn’t just debut at DFW, he owned it. His SS25 collection was a seamless blend of influences from the Far East to the Arabian Sahara. Picture flowing silhouettes, rich fabrics, and a fusion of cultures that transported the audience to another world. Estera’s travels clearly inspired his designs, offering a narrative that mixed Eastern elegance with Arabian desert vibes. It’s not every day you get to see such a perfect balance of cultural homage and cutting-edge fashion, and Estera nailed it.
One thing’s for sure: Angelo Estera is officially on the radar, and we can’t wait to see where he takes us next.
٦. Italian Trade Agency’s ‘La Moda Italiana: Dubai Edition’ Exhibition
It wouldn’t be Dubai Fashion Week without a little Italian flair, would it? The Italian Trade Agency brought La Moda Italiana to Dubai, showcasing 25 brands that ranged from clothing to leather goods and eyewear. Basically, it was an all-out celebration of Italian craftsmanship, and the UAE ate it up. This exhibition isn’t just a side show—it’s a huge step in strengthening the cultural and economic ties between Italy and Dubai. With designs that scream sophistication and style, this Italian invasion is one we welcome with open arms. Let’s just say, the Italians know how to make an entrance.
٧. Ihab Jiryis’s S/S 2025 Collection
Acclaimed designer Ihab Jiryis presented his Spring/Summer 2025 collection, drawing profound inspiration from the transformative journey of the monarch butterfly. This collection, which celebrated femininity, growth, and empowerment, was a masterful blend of art, innovation, and elegance. Jiryis’s designs embodied the delicate yet resilient nature of the butterfly, showcasing his unique approach to fashion. Each piece was a tribute to the power of transformation and the beauty of evolution, highlighted by a palette of soft, ethereal colours and sophisticated silhouettes. Through this collection, Jiryis reaffirmed his reputation for merging artistic vision with high fashion, creating a range that is both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.
٨. Victor Weinsanto’s “Lady de Weinsanto” Collection
Victor Weinsanto’s “Lady de Weinsanto” collection, a standout at the fashion week, was presented by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode. The collection celebrated resilient femininity through a striking combination of bold black tones and vibrant colours. Weinsanto’s signature oversized silhouettes and innovative materials were prominently featured, underscoring his commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking design. Each piece in the collection exemplified a fusion of daring fashion and practical elegance, making a powerful statement about the modern woman’s strength and individuality.
