Italian craftsmanship and couture artistry took center stage at Dubai Fashion Week SS26 Spring/Summer with the highly anticipated Italian Day showcase, La Moda Italiana Vol. 2. In partnership with the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, six leading Italian fashion houses unveiled their latest creations, blending heritage with innovation. The evening reinforced Dubai’s growing reputation as a global fashion capital and highlighted the enduring influence of Made in Italy fashion.
Fashion Meets Diplomacy
The prestigious event was attended by senior Italian delegates, including Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE; Edoardo Napoli, Consul General of Italy in Dubai; and Valerio Soldani, Italian Trade Commissioner. They were welcomed by Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of Dubai Design District (d3), and Jacob Abrian, Founder & CEO of the Arab Fashion Council. Their presence emphasized the strategic partnership between Italy and Dubai in strengthening cultural and creative industries.
Six Italian Designers Define the Season
Each designer brought a unique vision to the runway, reaffirming Italy’s reputation for couture craftsmanship and timeless design:
- Valentina Poltronieri introduced Sculpted Simplicity, a collection inspired by abstract art, merging geometric tailoring and fluid fabrics in warm, sophisticated hues.
- LE Twins presented Good Morning, Good Evening, a versatile SS26 line for modern women, blending effortless tailoring with chic essentials.
- Gil Santucci delivered a bold, glamorous take on femininity with luxurious fabrics, daring silhouettes, and statement embellishments.
- D-Exterior showcased its heritage of artisanal knitwear with a poetic SS26 collection featuring sheer textures, macramé lace, and fluid organza.
- Avant Toi reimagined 19th-century romanticism through hand-painted textiles, raw finishes, and modern metallic treatments.
- BE Nina charmed audiences with Da Nonna Tina, a nostalgic ode to childhood, featuring whimsical, handcrafted silhouettes.
Threads Talks V4.0: Power and Influence in Fashion
Beyond the runway, Threads Talks V4.0 brought together global voices to discuss power, authenticity, and influence in the fashion world. Presented in collaboration with Meta, Arab Fashion Council, and Dubai Design District, the panels highlighted Dubai’s pivotal role in shaping global fashion conversations and driving creativity beyond borders.
A Week of Fashion Innovation in Dubai
The Italian Day was just one highlight of Dubai Fashion Week SS26, co-founded by d3 and the Arab Fashion Council. With global partnerships from Dyson, Kiko Milano, Waldorf Astoria, and SOUEAST, DFW has positioned itself as the Middle East’s definitive fashion fixture, attracting world-class designers and audiences alike.
Italian Craftsmanship Inspires the World
With La Moda Italiana Vol. 2, Italian designers reaffirmed their place as global style leaders, showcasing how luxury fashion, innovation, and tradition converge seamlessly. As Dubai cements its role as a rising fashion hub, collaborations like these celebrate not only couture but also cultural diplomacy and creativity on the world stage.
