INTERNATIONAL TEXTILE FAIR AND ISLAMIC FASHION DESIGN COUNCIL TEAM UP TO UNCOVER THE LATEST IN MODEST FASHION

There has never been a better time in fashion for the more conservatively dressed fashionistas. With bloggers like Ascia AKF and the Hipster Hijabis gaining massive following, modest styles are being seen as uber chic. This year, the International Textile Fair (ITF) has teamed up with Islamic Fashion Design Council (IFDC) to bring together the region’s hottest designers in modest fashion in a special display during the two-day exhibition that takes place at Hall 1, World Trade Center, Dubai from 26^th to 27^th April 2015.

The dedicated space will house designs from the designers’ Spring/Summer 2016 collections and will highlight the use of different textiles in the Islamic fashion industry. The MODEST FASHION AREA aims to engage designers, students and the general public through vibrant exhibits, fun and interactive tutorials, and a lively panel discussion featuring key regional brands and industry experts. IFDC designers include Chenille Boutique, which recently launched its latest collections in London and Paris, and Stephanie Jaye, who wowed UAE fashionistas with her latest collection at Dubai’s recent Bride Show. International Textile Fair will also be bringing in an array of regional talent like Abaya Addict, who was part of the Mercedes Benz fashion week in Malaysia, regional brand Meher & Riddhima, who are increasing their international presence with stores in the US market, and Dubai based Hema Kaul, who is a popular feature at London Fashion Week. The show also features local talents like Royal Rickshaw and Vazar Haute Couture.

With expenditure on Muslim clothing forecasted to reach US$488 billion (Dh1.8 trillion) by 2019[1], designers from the region are sought after at an international level and the fair will bring them further visibility. Ms. Alia Khan, Founder and Chairwoman of IFDC, has worked closely with ITF in the conceptualization and production of the space. She is enthused by the collaboration and says; “There will be something for everyone so I encourage everyone to attend. The IFDC would love to see you at the International Textile Fair.”

Ms. Khan gives us insight on her reasons for collaborating with ITF. “Fabric plays a bigger role in Islamic fashion than we realize. In some cases it is the sole determinant of a Muslim consumer’s purchase choice. If the Islamic fashion designers and the fabric suppliers collaborated to cater to the overwhelming demand of the booming Islamic fashion market, they would be able to achieve far greater success,” she said. IFDC is working toward creating and supporting effective initiatives between these industry players and Ms. Khan says; “The International Textile Fair is an important platform from which inspiration and creativity to fuel the modest fashion industry arise.”