Riyadh Fashion Week Returns with Iconic Global Designers
Riyadh Fashion Week is poised to break new ground as it returns for its third edition from October 16 to 21. This year’s event will feature more than 30 runway shows, designer presentations, and citywide activations, bringing global fashion leaders to the Saudi capital. Among the stars headlining the event are Vivienne Westwood and Stella McCartney, both making their Riyadh debut, alongside a powerful representation of Saudi designers.
A Milestone for Saudi Fashion
Organised by the Saudi Fashion Commission under the Ministry of Culture, this edition of Riyadh Fashion Week marks a significant milestone for the Kingdom’s rapidly developing fashion industry. Since its launch in 2023, the event has garnered international attention, positioning Saudi Arabia as an emerging fashion capital in the Middle East. With this year’s expansion, Riyadh Fashion Week reflects the growing influence of Saudi designers, as well as the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global fashion hub.
Vivienne Westwood Kicks Off Fashion Week
The opening of this year’s fashion week will feature a special presentation by British fashion icon Vivienne Westwood, in collaboration with Art of Heritage by Princess Noura Al Faisal. The show is expected to highlight the fusion of Westwood’s bold, rebellious aesthetic with traditional Saudi craftsmanship. Fashion insiders suggest the event will be an exclusive showcase, designed specifically for Riyadh Fashion Week.
Stella McCartney to Close the Week
Closing the week on October 21, Stella McCartney will make her first appearance in Saudi Arabia, presenting both her recent and archival collections. Renowned for her commitment to sustainable luxury, McCartney’s participation underscores Saudi Arabia’s increasing focus on eco-conscious fashion. Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission, described her debut in Riyadh as a “milestone for Saudi Arabia’s creative evolution.”
Local Designers Take Centre Stage
Riyadh Fashion Week will also spotlight Saudi talent, featuring both established and emerging designers across various styles, including couture, ready-to-wear, and streetwear. Local names such as Tima Abid, Atelier Hekayat, Abadia, Hindamme, and 1886 will share the stage with regional talents like Waad AlOqaili, Ashwaq AlMarshad, Leem, Arwa Albanawi, Razan AlAzzouni, Mona AlShebil, and Reem AlKanhal. These designers are expected to bring a fresh, contemporary perspective to the event, showcasing the diversity and creativity of Saudi fashion.
The event will take place in multiple venues across the capital, with designer presentations running from October 16 to 20 at the Mandarin Oriental. This expansion reflects the Saudi government’s support for the country’s fashion sector and its vision to integrate Saudi Arabia into the global fashion conversation.
A New Era for Saudi Fashion
With Vivienne Westwood opening and Stella McCartney closing, Riyadh Fashion Week 2025 promises to redefine the Kingdom’s fashion scene. The event highlights not only the strength of international design but also the growing confidence of Saudi Arabia’s own fashion innovators. As the country continues to make strides in its cultural and creative industries, Riyadh Fashion Week represents a significant step in the Kingdom’s global cultural presence.
For more insights into the region’s evolving landscape, why the UAE and Saudi Arabia are taxing sweetened drinks and the latest tech at Gitex Global 2025.
