Current Fashion Scene in the Middle East Many attempts at fashion weeks but not one definitive event that merits the attention & respect of the regional and international community. Most previous attempts have adopted a copy-paste approach to successful international fashion weeks without properly evaluating the region s needs. While the Middle East is very promising, it has yet to reach its full commercial and production capacity typically attached to fashion weeks. More often than not, there have been shortcomings in a proper representation of the region s talent. From a production aspect, international standards were rarely met.
FFWD Vision & Mission Fashion Forward (FFWD) aims to be the biggest and most definitive fashion platform for the entire Middle East. Recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of the community, FFWD s mission is to drive the entire fashion industry in the region forward. FFWD will take place bi annually, in the months of April and October.
FFWD Event Concept & Positioning Statement • FFWD will be the ultimate platform for the regions established and emerging fashion designers to showcase their collections to consumers, media & buyers; in a professional and cost effective manner. • FFWD will also be a venue for education and exchange supported by renowned academic partners, and inspirational speakers from around the world.
Event Format & Points of Difference
Three catwalk arenas of varying sizes & packages •
The varying sizes and packages will address different production demands of the participating designers.
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The multiple halls will complement the dynamics of the event. Shows can be efficiently scheduled, allowing ample time for set up and preparations.
Dedicated areas for forums, discussions & presentations Programming will be curated by leading fashion & design schools worldwide and industry experts. Inspiration keynote addresses, presentations & panel discussions by industry and celebrity achievers.
FFWD Pop Up Shop There will also be a dedicated area showcasing accessory & jewellery designers from the region.
Social Events & Fashion Parties Social events and fashion parties for the fashion community, strategically scheduled in between shows and forums for dynamic programming and optimal attendance.
FFWD Achievement Award & Scholarships From Season 2 (Oct 2013), FFWD will pay tribute to a designer, patron or entity that has contributed tremendously to the progress of the region s fashion industry. This will be bestowed annually during the October season. From Season 3 (April 2014), FFWD will grant scholarships and prizes to young designers and students through various competitions facilitated by our academic partners. This will be given annually during the April season.
Confirmations & Key Event Highlights
Season 1 April 26 – 29, 2013 Madinat Jumeirah Dubai, UAE Venue that plays host to iconic events in Dubai, including the Dubai International Film Festival and Art Dubai.
Dubai Rami Al Ali Ezra Santos Golkar Emperor 1688 Furne One of Amato Essa Walla Michael Cinco Ayesha Depala Zayan By Kage Grazia
Beirut Rani Zakhem Dina Jsr Ashi Studio Starch Saudi Arabia Hatem Al Akeel Kuwait Tahir Sultan
Eighteen Confirmed Designers To Date Six Potential Slots Remaining
Rabih Kayrouz
FFWD Ambassador & Participating Speaker in April 2013 Event Internationally renowned Lebanese fashion designer, established in Paris. Next to Elie Saab, Rabih is the only Arab designer part of the Paris Fashion Week’s official calendar. Rabih is also the cofounder of Starch, a non-profit organization with the aim of helping emerging Lebanese designers.
Assigned Organizing Company
Founded by experienced marketing and events duo Ramzi Nakad and Bong Guerrero, BRAG is a pioneering live marketing and experiential event management company in the region. A company that is known for creating live, interactive, emotionally engaging and memorable experiences; events that build business and equity by smartly bringing people and brands closer together. BRAG is an event management company with strong tactics like brand positioning, and strategic creative thinking backing its high quality executions that can connect major brands with relevant consumers across the full spectrum of formats. Bong, Brag s Managing Director, has an extensive events experience within multiple industries including fashion, music, corporate and culture. Its Managing Executive, Ramzi has an extensive marketing experience with global brands. The combination of their background and expertise enables them to spearhead live marketing in the region.
BRAG Client Portfolio
Sponsors to date
Potential
[in discussion with]
Sponsors
Jumeirah Business Centre 1 Suite 2902 Jumeirah Lakes Towers P.O. Box 309136 Dubai, United Arab Emirates +971 4 4327844 www.brag.ae