Vivienne Westwood Show Opens Riyadh Fashion Week

The third edition of Riyadh Fashion Week officially opened on Thursday with a spectacular day of events and runway showcases across the Saudi capital.

The highly anticipated fashion celebration began with an intimate panel discussion hosted by the iconic British brand Vivienne Westwood at Fashion Commission Riyadh, setting the tone for a week dedicated to creativity, sustainability, and cultural collaboration.

The Vivienne Westwood discussion explored the brand’s rich legacy in design, its unwavering commitment to environmental advocacy, and its dedication to craftsmanship — values deeply aligned with the growing Saudi fashion movement. This thoughtful exchange highlighted how global fashion houses are increasingly finding inspiration in Saudi Arabia’s evolving creative landscape.

As night fell, The Palm Grove came alive with the first major runway show of the week. Vivienne Westwood’s presentation was a breathtaking blend of British design heritage and Saudi artistry.

The collection featured couture gowns meticulously embroidered in collaboration with Art of Heritage, a Saudi organization devoted to preserving traditional craftsmanship. These exclusive pieces were shown alongside selected looks from the house’s Spring/Summer 2026 and archival collections.

The runway shimmered with voluminous ball gowns crafted from luxurious silk and satin in lilac, emerald, and silver hues, accented by gold threadwork inspired by traditional Saudi embroidery. Metallic brocades and layers of tulle added drama to the collection, while the brand’s signature corsets and draped bodices paid homage to historical tailoring with a modern twist.

Contrasting these opulent evening looks were sharply tailored suits in pinstripe, plaid, and solid tones, crafted from wool and cotton blends. Structured double-breasted jackets, crisp shirts with high collars, and oversized lapels brought a touch of British precision to the Saudi runway. Accessories, including chandelier earrings, metallic handbags, and pointed heels, complemented the avant-garde spirit of the collection, while veils, belts, and embroidered details reinforced Vivienne Westwood’s masterful approach to craftsmanship.

The front row of the show featured Thai actress Faye Peraya and Thai actor Win Metawin O, and netizens could not stop gushing over them online. 

Alongside the British brand’s headline show, Saudi couture took center stage at Bedrock, where local designers Tima Abid, Adnan Akbar, and Atelier Hekayat showcased their latest creations. Each designer highlighted the elegance and sophistication of Saudi couture through intricate embellishments, expert tailoring, and contemporary silhouettes that celebrated both heritage and innovation.

Riyadh Fashion Week 2025 opened with a powerful statement — one that celebrates fashion as a bridge between cultures, craftsmanship, and creativity. Vivienne Westwood’s presence not only honored the kingdom’s growing influence in global fashion but also underscored Riyadh’s emergence as a rising hub for luxury and sustainability in the Middle East.

This article was previously published on saudimoments. To see the original article, click here