Fashion Forward Dubai Announces Programme For Upcoming Edition

March 23^rd – 25^th Hai d3, Dubai Design District

Over 30 regional ready-to-wear, couture and accessory designers

Introducing 13 new labels

Designers present ‘See Now, Buy Now’ collections

Headline d3 talks by Nowness CEO, Daniel Coutinho, Designer Azza Fahmy and CEO of Who's Next and Premiere Classe, Etienne Cochet

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Fashion Forward Dubai (FFWD), the region’s progressive fashion platform, endorsed by Dubai Design and Fashion Council (DDFC) and with Dubai Design District (d3) as Strategic Partner, today announces its full programme for the upcoming edition, taking place from March 23^rd – 25^th, 2017 at Hai d3.

FFWD will shine the spotlight upon the region’s well-known couture, ready-to-wear and accessory designers who are confidently carving a space for their labels in the international fashion landscape after several successful showings at FFWD. As well as seasoned FFWD designers, and following through on its commitment to introduce new talent to the fashion community, FFWD are debuting thirteen designers this March.

Following the ‘See Now Buy Now’ format, adopted by international brands whereby designers have removed the six-month lead time and instead synchronized catwalk shows with store deliveries, Emperor presented by Reebok will present current collections available to buy immediately.

Bong Guerrero, CEO and co-founder of FFWD said, “FFWD has become a key event in the region’s fashion calendar and with the support of our strategic partners, DDFC and d3, the event has gained momentum and serves as a platform for international visibility and commercial success. Each season we discover impressive new talent which we are thrilled to welcome to the schedule in March. We encourage the fashion community to explore the new talent and as always enjoy the stunning presentations we can expect to see from FFWD’s seasoned designers. With the continued support of DDFC and d3, international and regional media and our fashion peers, we look forward to seeing the designers flourish as we celebrate creativity from all over the Arab world and beyond.”

Jazia Al Dhanhani, CEO, Dubai Design & Fashion Council said, "We are delighted to once again endorse Fashion Forward and lend our support to Season Nine. Not only has Fashion Forward firmly established itself as a landmark event in Dubai - it has also made a significant contribution to the industry by creating opportunities for local and regional designers. This is closely aligned with DDFC's objectives of developing the sector sustainably and empowering homegrown talent. We are looking forward to another inspiring edition and wish all the participating designers the best of luck."

Mohammad Saeed Al Shehhi, COO at Dubai Design District (d3) said, “d3 are delighted to be once again supporting Fashion Forward, which reflects our mission of cultivating creativity by supporting local and regional talent and connecting them with key industry decision makers. We look forward to being part of this event once again, and continuing to grow the regions design and fashion industry.”