Dubai Fashion Fiesta begins with glitz and glamour

Dubai Fashion Fiesta (DFF), a highlight of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) this year, unveiled four days of the region’s best in fashion through a glittering red carpet ceremony graced by international celebrities and top models on Friday, June 19, at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Center.

More than 500 high profile guests from Dubai’s social circle including fashionistas from all over the country, models, designers, media, and famous celebrities from different countries thronged the venue to witness the ultimate fashion gathering of the season. Some of the renowned personalities that graced the opening were Sabrina Barnett, top model-turned singer and brand ambassador of DFF in the US; Larisa Katz, fashion designer and brand ambassador of DFF in Europe; Detlif Turisis, CEO of World Beauty organization; Prince of Malaysia Reza Sha Dato; and Bollywood celebrities Riya Sen, Raima Sen, and Sayali Bhagat.

The show started when evening gowns from Dubai-based fashion boutique Si Fashion Gallery set the first stage for avant-garde style, as models strutted down the ramp in resplendent ready-to-wear evening collection. The collection was essentially created for the Middle Eastern woman in an eclectic range of colours.

A special presentation of five Dubai-based designers displayed their fashion flair for outstanding five pieces for each collection. Exquisite Indian craftsmanship and delicate embroidery took the limelight as Rohit Verma showcased his collection of kameez-salwars and nightgowns. Emirati designer Rabia Z. played a fashion forward concept with the traditional abaya to reflect individualistic self-expression of modern Arab women. Amber Feroz owed his inspiration to his native city, Banaras, and reflected its rich weaving traditions with pails of color swirls, silken skeins and woven gold fused with modern cuts. The creator of well-recognized Islamic fashion label “Shabhaya”, Shabana Asif blended sophistication and elegance with unique designs, exclusive fabric and intricate embroidery. Whereas, the award-winning Emirati designer Zahra Komastagi, focused on Jalabiyas and stunning crystal studded flowing evening gowns that oozed feminine grace.

The glamorous night capped as DFF’s brand ambassador in the USA, supermodel, actress, singer turned fashion designer Sabrina Barnett showcased 27 pieces from her collection “Empowering Women”. Her high street fashion style combined with bold allegiance to discerning awareness paved the way to a successful array of beautiful pieces of fashion.

On the other hand, Dubai-based British opera singer Stacey Ormond who has performed in front of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Charles on many occasions added a touch of musical poetry to the event through a special song. The wonderful array of kiosks provided to an exhibit of designers also charged up the excitement all throughout.

DFF’s first night ended on a high note with several nods of agreement that the event marked Dubai’s leading status in bringing the latest and the best in haute couture and high fashion. DFF runs till June 21 in Dubai International Exhibition & Convention Centre Hall 5.

DSS discounts and entertainment keep shoppers busy at BurJuman

During the first weekend of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) 2009, shoppers at BurJuman expressed their delight at the various programmes and discounted promotions in the shopping mall.

Dubai residents Alex Milkovski, Marina Bubalo and Galonjic Dejan were thrilled to show off their shopping bags. These Serbian nationals felt that DSS had lots of offerings this year. Alex said, “We are so excited to go to the mall and check out the DSS programmes. We were surprised to know that we can also participate at raffle draws by just shopping.” Marina added, “We are waiting for more promotions in the coming weeks.”

Mukesh Chheda, from India, was also motivated to roam around the shopping mall. He said, “It’s my first DSS and I heard a lot of good things on how great the promotions are. Now that I am here at BurJuman, I can say that whatever I heard was so true. DSS really makes shopping very affordable. That’s what we need during these times.”

On the other hand, wife and mother Gopika Gurdasani was roaming around the mall with her kids. Although she wasn’t in for shopping, she was more than happy about DSS. Gopika told, “I’m thankful that DSS has wonderful events for children. We are staying in Dubai this summer, and we need these types of activities for our kids. The DSS activities are enjoyable and educational, and really great for the children.”

Visiting tourists from Kuwait, Arwa and Umme Khan, believed that DSS made their trip to Dubai more memorable. Arwa said, “The discounts are wonderful. I could buy a lot of stuff to take back home.” Umme added , “We love the promotions. It’s just amazing.”

BurJuman, a key sponsor of DSS this year, hosts numerous luxury brand outlets that are offering massive discounts during the summer extravaganza.