This past week, I had been anticipating and scrolling through my social media to preview Riyadh Fashion Week 2024. Scrolling through Instagram, I discovered incredible talent emerging from RFW and learned more about what this particular fashion week had to offer, and was certainly impressed. RFW has been positioning Saudi Arabia on the global fashion map, marking a significant cultural shift and highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global fashion industry as it debuted its fashion week in October 2023. With its recent debut, I wanted to know more about Saudi’s fashion scene.
This year’s Riyadh Fashion Week welcomed 30 designers and 28 runway shows over five days, blending tradition with contemporary flair by incorporating traditional Saudi elements with modern designs. The standout trend were the modern yet modest designs which payed homage to the country’s rich heritage while appealing to global fashion sensibilities.
Tech in Fashion
The highlight of the event for me was notably Saudi luxury fashion label, KAF by KAF, which introduced Saudi Arabia’s first humanoid robot, Sara, to the runway.
This symbolises the Kingdom’s 2030 commitment to innovation and futuristic vision, including the fashion sector. The humanoid is no surprise after the tech advancements in the age of Artificial Intelligence with discussions around robotics and data centres. By integrating cutting-edge technology with high fashion, Riyadh Fashion Week has now set itself apart from the global fashion circuit and traditional fashion weeks. I’m looking forward to seeing more fashion uses of tech, and how it can be further implemented around the world. With the evergrowing technology, there are bound to be usage for the fashion industry.
The event was graced by many notable faces including personal favourites such as supermodel Elsa Hosk, Georgina Rodriguez and singer Mishaal Tamer. Their presence defines Riyadh’s growing reputation as a key player in the luxury and high-fashion market. The Kingdom’s fashion industry is projected to grow significantly, with the women’s fashion market alone expected to reach $53 billion by 2030. This growth is driven by increasing domestic demand, a growing middle class, and the Kingdom’s strategic Vision 2030 plan, aiming to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil revenues.
Saudi Arabia’s Vision in Fashion
RFW’s cultural integration was evident throughout the event, with designers showcasing collections that honoured Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern fashion. The fusion of cultural depth and modern aesthetics created a unique narrative that resonated with both local and international audiences. Recent data shows that 45% of Saudi shoppers prefer trendy yet modest fashion, further supporting the need for the East meets West influence.
The fashion event also provided a platform for independent brands and emerging designers, showcasing the diversity and talent within Saudi fashion. This focus on independent brands highlighted the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering new talent and promoting creative expression.
It’s been interesting and exciting to witness this fresh and promising introduction to Saudi’s creative and fashion scene, particularly in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. Exciting times lie ahead, as I predict Saudi will become a hub for modest and high fashion brands and figures to present and connect, especially if they continue advancing in new tech, exclusivity branding and modest allure.
Featured Image: ArAm by Arwa Alammari at Riyadh Fashion Week 2024