Just when you thought Dubai couldn’t get more glitz and glam, the Swarovski couture exhibition takes it up several notches.
The Swarovski Sparkling Couture exhibition launches today in Dubai, as part of the brand’s 120th anniversary.
The one-day exhibition opens on November 4 at Madinat Jumeirah, and will comprise of a diverse spectrum of couture, jewellery and accessory pieces created by Middle Eastern and South Asian designers, who were specifically commissioned to design an exclusive piece highlighting their innovative use of Swarovski crystals.
”Swarovski is at the forefront of innovation and has always been the designer’s choice.” Belle Reve
Dress, Belle Reve
And the results are, well, simply dazzling. Emirates Woman were the first to get a look at the exhibition even taking some of the most show-stopping pieces and shooting them in our November issue.
“This bridal dress was inspired by the Chinese belief that marriages have to be built on a strong foundation. The piece is reminiscent of cabriole legs, with the white lace embodying the classic purity of women.” Sebastian Gunawan Dress, Sebastian Gunawan Bracelet, Vintage Regalia at sophiescloset.com
Sparkling Couture showcases one-of-a-kind pieces from 40 brands from across the UAE, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Lebanon, Iran, Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Australia.
“This gown was created to embody the innovative bride and is a contemporary couture take on tradition. It’s fresh, modern and textural.” Steven Khalil Dress, Steven Khalil
There are eight UAE designers proudly taking part including: Aavva, Fatema Al Fardan, House of Hend, Raghda Taryam, Rizwan all presenting evening wear. Arushi, Dar Sara and Florentina presenting bridal wear.
“I approached this evening gown in a modern way, resulting in a crop top and skirt, but used a little bit of tradition by way of crystal shapes. We used over 100,000 Swarovski crystals in total.” Aava Dress, Aava
A Swarovski spokesperson said: “[The designers were chosen for] their excellence in their respective are as of design, Swarovski brings this eclectic group of designers together for the very first time, providing a platform for these individual talents to come together in celebration of innovation and collaboration in design.”
“I took natural forms of clouds and snowflakes in a crystallised state as my reference for this, created by layering very delicate French lace, silk organza, tulle and – of course – lots of beautiful Swarovski crystals.” House of Hend Dress, House of Hend Earrings, Oscar de la Renta
As well as couture the Swarovski exhibit also display gorgeous bridal gowns, ethnic wear, evening wear and modest wear.
“This piece is inspired by Emily Dickinson’s poetry – I drew upon her omnipresent theme of nature and used Swarovski to create crystalline birds to encapsulate the femininity and beauty of springtime.” Tena Durrani Dress, Tena Durrani
“With Sparkling Couture we aim to demonstrate the strength of creative collaborations, and celebrate these incredibly brilliant designers with whom we have worked closely for many years,” said Andrew Mojica, Managing Director, Swarovski Middle East. “Guests visiting Sparkling Couture will see an innovative and contemporary take on couture, from some of the region’s finest talent.”
Sparkling Couture takes place on November 4 at The Madinat Arena Ballroom from 8.30pm to midnight.
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Images from Emirates Woman November Issue. Stylist: Jade Sprowson. Photographer: Greg Adamski
