Region's Most Exclusive Abaya Fashion Show To Be Launched This Dubai Shopping Festival

Internationally renowned abaya designers will descend on Dubai during the 19th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival to showcase their collections to a select audience of the most respected fashion personalities, industry professionals and media representatives in the region at the first-ever Abbati Show.

The exclusive invite-only event, hosted by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and the organizers of DSF, in collaboration with Paris Gallery, will take place on 22 January at the Godolphin Ballroom, Jumeirah Emirates Towers from 4pm onwards. The evening’s line-up of designers will feature six of the leading lights of the abaya fashion world, who will showcase their newest collections to the discerning audience. Designers include Medici by Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi, Hesseh, Bleach, Rouge Couture, DAS and Queen of Spades.

Invitees to the Abbati Show will be able to view the collections at back-to-back fashion shows held all through the evening. The showcase of each designer collection will be preceded by a reception where invitees will get a chance to browse through a range of signature pieces along with a display of high-end accessories, while enjoying gourmet refreshments.

This year’s edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival has shone a light on fashion, with a number of unique initiatives and activations such as the Fashion Squad (who will also be at the Abbati Show on the lookout for the city’s most stylish individuals), The Cocoon, the IT Closet, and the Market Outside the Box event.

Abbati Show is the jewel in the crown in the line-up of DSF fashion events, and is expected to turn out into an annual event, offering abaya enthusiasts an exciting preview of the latest trends in abaya design.

Designer Profiles and Show Timings:

Medici by Sheikha Hend Al Qassemi 4pm
A trendy line by Qatari fashion powerhouse Hend Al Qassemi, Medici offers cutting-edge abayas for the modern Arab woman, known for their luxurious finishings and tailored elegance. In 2014, Al Qassemi takes the Medici brand even further with a new prêt-a-porter line, which speaks to the cosmopolitan woman who is well travelled yet rooted in her culture.

Hesseh 5pm
Sharjah-based Emirati designer Hessa Al Obaidli’s creative designs draw inspiration from her Emirati and Islamic heritage, combining traditional techniques with contemporary design. Hessa Al Obaidli has redefined abaya fashion trends to focus on simplicity and elegance. The name “Hesseh” means luck and destiny and the Hesseh Abaya Haute Couture collections are all based on a concept of storytelling, combined with an imaginary location and special characters.

Bleach 6pm
Emirati lifestyle label Bleach is designed by Emirati designer Badreya Faisal who has spent years living in Italy, Spain and the UK, broadening her skills in all genres of art, from graphic design to car design. Her designs have been noted for their minimalist, eccentric and innovative style.

Rouge Couture 7pm
Rouge Couture is the creation of Sara Al Madani from the UAE who combined her knowledge and experience to design a line of luxurious, unique and stylish abayas that are a fusion of traditional and modern designs.

DAS 8pm
The brainchild of Emirati sisters Reem and Hind Beljafla, DAS Collection set out to update the abaya, making it a fashion statement whilst always respecting its heritage and traditions. Showing at London Fashion Week since September 2011, DAS has increased the positive profile of the abaya on the world stage and continues to innovate in fashion design.

Queen of Spades 9pm
Emirati Lamya Abedin’s eclectic designs combine the cultural influences of various countries she has lived and visited in the Gulf, Europe and North Africa. Her designs reflect the unique forms of traditional wear such as the kimono, saris and pantaloons.

The 19th edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival commenced on January 2nd, 2014 and will continue until February 2nd, 2014, under the theme, “Shop At Your Best” aimed at offering extraordinary shopping experiences every day for 32 days of the festival.

Emirate:  Dubai

Date: Jan 13, 2014

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