The third edition of Riyadh Fashion Week marked a step change for the fledgling showcase, attracting international labels, retailers and editors to transporting, open-air runway venues and showcasing the appeal of its homegrown modest fashions — and spectacular special-occasion wear.

“Honestly, I didn’t expect that much, and it’s been fantastic,” said Manel Aboudaoud, owner and designer of Manel, a Dubai-based eveningwear-focused brand and one of five international names participating in fashion week for the first time. “Eight stores want to work with me.…I will be all over the GCC [Gulf Cooperation Council countries].”

Aboudaoud staged an intimate salon show on Oct. 19 and also displayed her designs in a commercial showroom set up within the golden sphere atop the Norman Foster-design

See Full Page