Running until October 21, Riyadh Fashion Week 2025 unfolded across the Saudi capital, bringing together international icons and visionary local designers in a celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and storytelling. Now in its third edition, the event marked a defining moment for the Kingdom’s fashion scene—one that bridges tradition and innovation with unapologetic elegance.
Vivienne Westwood: A Historic Middle Eastern Debut
The week began with a milestone moment as Vivienne Westwood presented its first-ever runway show in the Middle East. Set against the lush backdrop of The Palm Grove, the British fashion house unveiled a breathtaking capsule collection created in collaboration with Saudi Art of Heritage.
The gowns—adorned with gold embroidery by Saudi artisans—merged the brand’s rebellious British spirit with Saudi cultural artistry. Shades of lilac, emerald, and silver flowed in regal harmony, while tailored suits added sharp contrast. It was a show that embodied the idea of “global meets local,” where craftsmanship became the universal language of fashion.
Tima Abid: Grief in Fashion
Tima Abid’s collection, “Fawda,” or “Chaos” stood out as one of the most emotionally charged showcases of the week. Drawing inspiration from personal grief after the loss of her mother, the Saudi couturier transformed sorrow into poetic design.
Every fold and silhouette told a story of resilience—where pain met peace and fragility met strength. Abid’s mastery lay not only in her exquisite detailing but in her ability to make emotion wearable, proving that couture can carry the weight of human experience with grace.
Atelier Hekayat: A Love Letter to Theater
Design sisters Alia and Abeer Oraif brought theatrical magic to the runway with “A Ticket to the Theater.” The collection paid tribute to those who work behind the scenes in both fashion and performance—the unsung heroes who breathe life into every story.
Flowing silhouettes, sculpted cuts, and ornate embellishments captured the drama of the stage, while the mood of the show celebrated self-acceptance and creative freedom. It was a cinematic experience, where each look felt like a scene from Alice in Wonderland.
Abadia: A Coming-Of-Age Story
Closing the second day was Abadia, whose collection beautifully wove together heritage, storytelling, and sustainable luxury. Designer Shahd Al-Shehail drew from her grandfather’s coming-of-age journey at sea, creating pieces that reflected courage, growth, and the enduring bond between generations.
Rich fabrics—silk, velvet, and wool—appeared in earthy hues of brown, cream, and burgundy, layered with quiet sophistication.
Waad Aloqaili: Pearls at Sea
In “Yamal,” designer Waad Aloqaili found inspiration in the rhythm of the sea and the legacy of Saudi pearl divers. The collection flowed with soft, structured silhouettes that mirrored waves in motion.
Each piece carried a sense of calm strength, merging the past with a modern sense of minimalism. Aloqaili’s designs spoke to the beauty of balance—heritage expressed through movement, light, and quiet confidence.
Ashwaq Almarshad: The Spirit of Authenticity
Ashwaq Almarshad’s collection, “Authenticity – الأصالة,” paid homage to Saudi Arabia’s natural landscape, drawing from the soft tones of the desert and the depth of the sea. Delicate embroidery and fluid tailoring defined her aesthetic, resulting in looks that felt elegant, romantic, and unmistakably Saudi.
Her work reflected a modern femininity that honors tradition while embracing evolution—a celebration of authenticity in every stitch.
A Grand Finale Awaits
As Riyadh Fashion Week approaches its finale, anticipation builds for Stella McCartney’s first-ever show in Saudi Arabia, a closing that promises to blend innovation and global flair. This edition of Riyadh Fashion Week has proven that Saudi Arabia is not merely a host to fashion—it is shaping the future of it.
From Vivienne Westwood’s cultural dialogue to Tima Abid’s emotional couture, every collection told a story of identity, artistry, and transformation. And with more to come, the world is watching Riyadh shine at the center of fashion’s new era.
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