Day One Highlights from Dubai Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2025-26
The first day of Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) Autumn/Winter 2025-26 set the tone for what promises to be an extraordinary fashion showcase. Kicking off with an enchanting presentation by Zeena Zaki, the evening featured a blend of diverse styles, from MANEL’s Parisian-inspired creations to TOTON’s sustainable Batik masterpieces, and Angelo Estera’s fusion of Russian and Eastern cultural influences. Held at Dubai Design District (d3) until 6 February, DFW continues to cement its status as the region’s definitive fashion event, co-founded by d3 and the Arab Fashion Council.
Zeena Zaki’s opening show was nothing short of spectacular, setting a high bar for the rest of the week. The UAE-based designer once again captivated the audience with her signature combination of elegance, sophistication, and bold femininity. From flowing, ethereal gowns to structured, sculptural silhouettes, Zaki’s collection effortlessly balanced grace with power. The use of vibrant colours and dramatic cuts underscored a theme of confidence and timeless beauty. With this stunning collection, Zaki reaffirmed her place as a leading figure in MENA’s fashion scene, raising the stakes for the entire programme.
Toton Januar’s Toton 2025 collection, presented by Makeover Indonesia, was a poignant exploration of both cultural heritage and modern-day innovation. Drawing inspiration from global current affairs and challenges, Toton turned to the ancient Batik artisans of Tuban and Cirebon, Indonesia, whose dedication to preserving their craft became a source of inspiration for the collection. Featuring upcycled fabrics and innovative materials like paper clay, Toton’s designs celebrated the art of Batik while fostering an essential conversation about sustainability and the role of fashion in addressing today’s global issues. The result was a collection rich in texture, history, and profound meaning, showcasing the power of fashion to spark connection and change.
MANEL made a stunning debut at DFW with its Paris Day to Night collection, an ode to Parisian elegance and Dubai's dynamic fashion landscape. The collection captured the essence of sophisticated tailoring, versatile designs, and luxurious fabrics, perfect for both day and evening wear. The colour palette, inspired by Parisian winters, mixed earthy tones with rich, opulent hues. Velvet, jacquard, Chantilly lace, and satin brought a refined opulence to the collection, with each piece embodying MANEL’s signature aesthetic—timeless, elegant, and effortlessly chic. The debut marks a bold entry for the brand into the regional fashion spotlight.
Angelo Estera’s collection was a visual narrative of his transformative journey to Moscow and the historic Silk Road. Renowned for his deep passion for history and culture, the Filipino designer expertly blended traditional Russian elements with Eastern influences to create a stunning tribute to the ancient trade routes that once connected the East and West. The collection, filled with intricate patterns and rich textures, featured a striking colour palette of red, black, and gold—symbols of luck, mystery, and cultural prosperity. The highlight of the show was a breathtaking gown that encapsulated the essence of this historical fusion, with luxurious silk and intricate embroidery telling a story of cultural richness and artistic craftsmanship.
As the first day of Dubai Fashion Week concluded, it was clear that the Autumn/Winter 2025-26 edition promises to be a season of innovative design, cultural exploration, and timeless beauty. With each designer bringing their own unique vision to the runway, the event continues to showcase the incredible talent that defines the future of fashion in the MENA region and beyond. Stay tuned for more exciting moments as DFW unfolds over the next few days.
