RIYADH: The third day of Riyadh Fashion Week (RFW) saw Saudi labels Mona Alshebil, Abadia, Razan Alazzouni, ArAm, and Kaf by Kaf present their latest collections, with designers exploring such themes as Saudi Arabia’s wildlife and the influence of technology on fashion.
A particular highlight was ArAm by Arwa Al-Ammari, whose fashion show was a celebration of Saudi Arabia's wildlife. The collection was inspired by the country’s rich natural heritage, focusing on animals that are seldom seen, such as the oryx, the Arabian leopard, the Arabian wolf, and the Arabian bustard. In addition to these creatures, the collection drew aesthetic influences from indigenous plants like sider (Ziziphus spina), arar (Juniper), arak (Salvadora Persica), sheh (Artemisia), sant (Acacia), gada (Haloxylon Persicum), and athoba (Senegalia Mellifera).
ArAm by Arwa Al-Ammari celebrated Saudi Arabia's wildlife. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)
These animals and plants hold significant cultural importance, often featuring in Arab poetry and idioms, serving as symbols of beauty and resilience deeply rooted in Saudi heritage.
A model shows off a look by ArAm by Arwa Al-Ammari. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)
Abdullah Al-Shehri, the only Saudi model on the runway at ArAm’s show, shared his experience, stating, “I represented the work of Arwa Al-Ammari today, and honestly, the show was spectacular. The collection was so creative, and I am really glad to be a part of this show at RFW for the second year in a row.”
A model shows off a look by ArAm by Arwa Al-Ammari. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)
Following the show, Kaf by Kaf took to the stage with a striking presentation of designer Kawthar Alhoraish’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, aptly titled "Artificial Beauty." The collection explored the tension between technology and nature, delving into the contradictions that arise when organic forms collide with artificial constructs.
Kaf by Kaf took to the stage with a striking presentation of designer Kawthar Alhoraish’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)
The collection was not only a showcase of fashion but also a commentary on the interplay between the organic and the synthetic.
Shouq, a prominent influencer who donned pieces from Kaf by Kaf, expressed her admiration for the collection. “When I first read the title 'Artificial Beauty,' I was intrigued. But when I saw the robot model strutting down the runway, everything clicked. The reflective skirts and the overall theme were executed brilliantly. I was truly wowed and found myself wanting every piece in the collection,” she told Arab News.
A robot model on the runway. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)
The use of a robot model was a bold choice, symbolizing the fusion of fashion and technology. It reinforced the theme of the collection, making a strong statement about the future of fashion. Kaf by Kaf’s exploration of artificial beauty challenges traditional notions and invites a conversation about the role of technology in our lives and how it shapes our understanding of aesthetics.
The collection featured dresses and co-ords. (AN Photo by Huda Bashatah)
As Riyadh Fashion Week continues to unfold, the diverse and thought-provoking presentations from designers like Aram and Kaf by Kaf highlight the vibrant creativity within Saudi fashion.
