Style guide: How to be fashion-forward in Dubai

What colours should you wear? Are prints in or out? We asked designers for their input on your wardrobe

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Viva Vox
by

Karishma Nandkeolyar

Published: Sun 27 Oct 2024, 9:09 PM

One could argue that fashion is a relatively subjective thing, but there are some trends that are magnetic at certain points of time, drawing the adoration (or ire) of the stylishly inclined. In a multicultural spot like Dubai, home to both local and international brands, your choices run the gambit of global runways, and thus it becomes even more important to have your finger on the pulse of the moment, to know what shines on the red carpet and what is ‘so last season’.

Fortunately you don’t have to figure all this out alone.

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In the days after Dubai’s annual fashion week, we asked some designers about their mood boards for the season and current trends that are cool (or cringe).

Sweet successes

1.Go big or go home

Viva VOx
Designers&Us

Kuwaiti brand Riva Fashion’s spokesperson Ammar Al Tahan, who is also the CEO of Armada Retail Concept, explains that oversized blazers are having a moment. “This look blends structure and comfort making it easy for any occasion whether casual or formal. The oversized silhouette allows for more freedom of movement, works on many body types and can be styled in various ways.”

“A trend that we are seeing a lot on and off the runaways and that I am loving is bold colors, silhouettes and patterns,” adds Didi Akinyelure, the Creative Director of London-based sustainable womenswear and footwear brand April& Alex.

2.Prints charming

April&Alex

There’s just something about a pattern, a recurring motif that draws the eye. But how should you wear them? “Prints are definitely trending this season. Bold patterns, including florals, animal prints, tropical motifs are very popular. Mixing and matching different prints has also become a statement trend, allowing for more creative and personalised styling,” explains Al Tahan.

That said, over the years there’s been a self-serving trend for design that some other designers do not approve of either. “It is great to notice that trend for logo prints is slowly fading away,” explains the spokespeople of the Russian brand Viva Vox, Oleg Ovsiev and Angelika Kaplina.

3.Seasonal colours

Riva

It can be daunting, deciding on a mood palate that suits you and the season. But it’s definitely not impossible. “The trend colours for this season are a mix of warm, bold and nature-inspired tones and metallics. Soft neutrals, dusty rose, forest green, rich red, chocolate brown, camouflage khaki are some of the key colours,” explains Al Tahan.

4.Metallics make a comeback

April&Alex

It’s time to embrace the fact that metallics are here to stay. “Metallics are definitely catching my eye this season. You can see this inspiration translated into my new collection of shoes that will be launching next year, featuring a range of metallic shades,” says Akinyelure.

5.Sustainable fashion

As more and more designers and fashion houses take note of the wastage in the industry, they also work towards a new goal: becoming eco-friendly. “Designers&Us would likely be all for the rise of sustainable fashion practices. The movement towards eco-friendly materials and ethical production methods aligns with a growing awareness of environmental issues. This trend not only promotes responsibility within the industry but also encourages creativity as designers find innovative ways to use sustainable fabrics and techniques, leading to unique and forward-thinking designs,” says Tarek Derki, CEO at luxury fashion house Designers&Us.

Unfortunate patterns

1.Low blow

The era of ultralow-rise jeans (and pants) should be over, says Al Tahan, explaining: “It can be really difficult to pull off for most body types and it lacks functionality.”

2.Quiet luxury

There’s been a divesting of this trend on the red carpet and Ovsiev and Kaplina seem relieved. “We are not really fond of “quiet luxury” trend and we are glad that this one is being less and less seen on the catwalks. What you see more and more instead are playfulness and romanticism and bold use of colours. You really feel the joy of individual expression by the most of designers in all fashion capitals of the world,” they say.

Top tips for the newbie fashionista in Dubai by luxury fashion house Designers&Us

1.Embrace boldness! Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors, patterns, and styles that speak to you. Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, so let your individuality shine through your outfits.

2.Confidence is key. Wear what makes you feel good and own your look. Remember, fashion is about self-expression, so trust your instincts and don’t shy away from making a statement.

3.Stay aware of local trends, but also remember that the best trends are those you create yourself.

4.Mix high-end pieces with unique finds, and play around with layering.

5.Accessories can elevate any outfit, so invest in some eye-catching statement pieces.

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Karishma Nandkeolyar

Published: Sun 27 Oct 2024, 9:09 PM

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