Shape up and look sharp because Fashion Forward Season 3 is about to get underway in Dubai.
With 18 of the region’s designers scheduled to showcase their latest lines, with pop-up shops and parties aplenty, there’s something for everyone at this fashion extravaganza, held from Thursday to Sunday at the Madinat Jumeirah.
Last year, one of the standout successes was The Garden, an open-plan area dedicated to up-and-coming accessories designers. It’s back with a vengeance this season and more than 70 exhibitors will display their wares from noon to 8pm daily.
There will also be a series of talks and Q&As with the industry’s leading experts.
Fashion Forward kicks off at midday on Friday with a Fashion Brunch. Here’s your style guide for the rest of the proceedings.
Furne One’s Asia conquest
The Dubai-based Filipino designer Furne One is no stranger to standing ovations, having led the finale show at Fashion Forward since its inception last year.
We caught up with the master couturier as he made last-minute adjustments to his closing collection.
Congratulations on being given the grand finale again this season. How does it feel?
Thank you. It’s overwhelming to be given the same slot as in seasons one and two. I have felt so lucky every time.
Does it affect the way you see yourself among your Dubai peers?
It’s very hard to say. It’s very flattering is all I can say.
Last season, your Victorian Geisha collection received critical acclaim. How are you planning to top it?
I just hope I can! I really have to, because expectations are getting higher and higher each year. It’s like I’m competing with myself to make each season better than the last. It’s very challenging.
We heard that this new collection has taken five months to put together. Tell us more about it.
There are around 30 to 34 pieces – or maybe 36 to 39! [laughs] I’m still working on it. The inspiration this time is Alexander the Great – his travels and conquests in Asia Minor – Persia, India, Egypt.
There are lots of bright jewel colours – ruby reds, emeralds, blues and purples. I have used a lot of French lace and tulle, all embellished in sequins and crystals and plenty of flowers.
We’re curious to know: last season’s couture pieces that weren’t sold but showcased — where did they go?
Some pieces were archived but copied for clients if they wished. Other pieces are on tour. For example, last March at the finale shows of Los Angeles Fashion Week and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York. And in May, the Victorian Geisha collection will be going to Germany for the recording of Next Top Model.
