For the first time, Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience will present a scouting competition called Who Is on Next? Dubai. Competitors were chosen from countries in Asia, Africa and the Middle East, and the 25 finalists’ designs in womenswear, menswear and accessories are being showcased today and tomorrow at The Dubai Mall’s Star Atrium. Winners get to stock their collections online at yoox.com and at a number of fashion events in Italy next year, including Milan Fashion Week. We look at three regional designers who hold plenty of promise.
Faissal El-Malak, UAE
Dubai-based Palestinian Faissal El-Malak studied fashion design at Atelier Chardon Savard in Paris, and launched his brand in 2011 in Paris. He specialises in mixing traditional textiles with contemporary elements. His latest collection incorporates tartans, deep burgundies and chic layering, styled with over-the-knee python boots. El-Malak participated in the regional designers pop-up at Harvey Nichols Dubai this summer.
Maryam Al Omaira, UAE
Abu Dhabi-born Maryam Al Omaira is a mother of three who studied at Dubai’s Esmod French Fashion Institute before launching her label. She has worked with gowns, clutches and jewellery. Al Omaira calls her work “new couture”, since her garments incorporate hand-sewed and machine work. Her new collection features draping, beading and pleating.
Elio Abou Fayssal, Lebanon
Lebanese designer and Esmod graduate Elio Abou Fayssal, who presented his spring/summer 2016 collection at Fashion Forward Dubai last weekend, is known for his fairy-tale wedding gowns. His client list includes celebrities such as Bollywood actress Malaika Arora Khan. Signature designs include a tuxedo jacket-inspired outfit with a floor-length tail, and a pastel-blue ensemble with a sheer skirt and sequin beadwork.
hlodi@thenational.ae