RIYADH: The third edition of Riyadh Fashion Week opened on Thursday with a full day of events and runway shows at venues across the capital.
An ensemble from Vivienne Westwood’s show in Riyadh. (Instagram)
The day began with an intimate Vivienne Westwood panel discussion at Fashion Commission Riyadh, focused on the brand’s legacy of design, environmental advocacy and craftsmanship.
Designs from Vivienne Westwood's show. (Instagram)
Later, an evening runway show at The Palm Grove blended British design with Saudi craftsmanship. The collection included embroidered couture gowns created in collaboration with Art of Heritage, a Saudi organization dedicated to preserving traditional craftsmanship, alongside selected looks from the house’s Spring/Summer 2026 and archival collections.
An ensemble from Vivienne Westwood’s show in Riyadh. (Instagram)
The collection included voluminous ball gowns crafted from silk and satin in shades of lilac, emerald and silver, embroidered with gold threadwork inspired by traditional Saudi craftsmanship.
Metallic brocades and tulle fabrics were used throughout the collection, alongside fitted corsets and draped bodices inspired by historical tailoring.
An ensemble from Vivienne Westwood’s show in Riyadh. (Instagram)
Contrasting these evening looks, sharply cut suits appeared in pinstripe, plaid and solid tones, rendered in wool and cotton blends.
Looks included crisp white double-breasted jackets, high-collared shirts and oversized lapels.
A gown by Tima Abid. (Supplied)
Accessories included sculptural chandelier earrings, metallic handbags and pointed heels. Some looks incorporated belts and veils, while embroidered detailing and exaggerated shoulders reinforced the house’s craftsmanship.
A gown by Adnan Akbar. (Supplied)
Other runway shows took place at Bedrock featuring presentations by Saudi designers Tima Abid, Adnan Akbar and Atelier Hekayat. Each highlighted Saudi couture through detailed embellishments, refined tailoring and contemporary silhouettes.
A design by Atelier Hekayat. (Supplied)
