Saudi Fashion Commission announces fashion week plans for October 2023

28 Jun '23

2 min read

Pic: Saudi Fashion Commission

Insights

Saudi Arabia plans to host its inaugural fashion week from October 20-23, 2023, in Riyadh, following the 'Saudi 100 Brands' exhibition in Paris.
The commission also launched its first comprehensive report on the state of the fashion industry in the kingdom.
The report projects the nation's retail fashion sales to rise by 48 per cent from 2021 to 2025.

The Saudi Fashion Commission has announced its plans to launch the nation's inaugural fashion week, set to take place in Riyadh from October 20 to 23. This development is one of many recent initiatives by the Saudi Fashion Commission, following the launch of the 'Saudi 100 Brands' exhibition in Paris over the weekend.

Located in La Cite de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, the Saudi 100 Brands event was a showcase of Saudi Arabian fashion. The exhibition spotlighted the creativity of numerous established brands and emerging designers, presenting an extensive collection of men's, women's, and unisex ready-to-wear and accessories, including streetwear and evening wear. The majority of items on display were designed and produced in Saudi Arabia, underscoring the nation's fashion industry, as per Saudi media reports.

“Saudi fashion brands have already participated in Paris and Milan fashion weeks to showcase their talent on the global stage, impressing fashion professionals and enthusiasts around the world. For the first time ever, we now invite the fashion community to our home during this historic event,” the reports quoted CEO of the Saudi Fashion, Burak Cakmak, as saying.

Alongside the Fashion Week announcement, the Saudi Fashion Commission launched its first comprehensive report on the state of the fashion industry in the kingdom. The ‘State of Fashion in the Kingdom’ report offers a detailed look at the country's fashion landscape, outlining the significant opportunities for growth in the sector.

The report was launched in the form of a book woven into a dress by Saudi label Atelier Hekayat.

According to the report, Saudi Arabia's retail fashion sales are projected to rise by 48 per cent from 2021 to 2025, reaching a value of $32 billion. This robust growth, equating to an annual growth rate of 13 per cent, is anticipated to be driven by the kingdom's expanding economy and increasing population. Apparel, accessories, footwear, and luxury goods sectors are particularly expected to witness significant gains.

The report also highlighted the value of luxury fashion purchases in the GCC, which reached $9.6 billion in 2021. Saudi Arabia contributed significantly to this figure, posting a growth rate of 19 per cent.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)