Arab designers respond to demand for sustainable fashion
In addition to new styles, Arab Fashion Week in Dubai also showcased the work of "slow fashion" designers who are trying to reduce the industry's environmental impact.
While progressive ideas like sustainability and inclusive fashion strutted as the main attraction on Arab Fashion Week’s catwalk Saturday, the buying power of attendees and of regional fashion consumers is shifting behind the scenes.
The Dubai Design District’s quarterly event hosted 35 designers from across the region and globally, including the sustainable start-up brand Atelier Forger — the first Syrian label to debut in the history of the event.
“It’s black and white,” said Tarek Abou Samra, the brand’s creator, describing the simple classic-chic style of his clothing line — and also the dire need to be sustainable, as the future of the planet, and fashion, depend on it.
