Dubai Fashion Week: Manish Malhotra Strengthens Cultural Ties with a Love Letter to India

Dubai Fashion Week concluded with a spectacular show by renowned designer Manish Malhotra, held at the Dubai Design District. The event, which took place on Friday, was a tribute to Indian culture, showcasing the designer’s deep-rooted connection to his heritage. This year’s fashion week marked the first major event to unveil collections for autumn/winter 2026, featuring a diverse array of both emerging and established designers.

A Fitting Finale

Malhotra’s show served as a fitting finale to a week that highlighted a mix of talents, including Lili Blanc, Lama Jouni, Kresha Bajaj, Emergency Room, and international names like John Richmond and Alberta Ferretti. Each designer presented unique perspectives and styles, contributing to a rich tapestry of fashion that captivated attendees.

Manish Malhotra’s Return

The designer’s participation was a surprise, as his attendance was not announced until the week was already underway. This appearance came a year after his closing show at the 2025 autumn/winter Dubai Fashion Week. Titled “Inaya: The India Story,” Malhotra’s collection was described as a love letter to the history, glamour, and craftsmanship of India.

The men’s collection featured evening jackets adorned with fil coupe jacquard and intricate beading, while the women’s line included airy silk garments and opulent bridalwear embellished with crystals. Techniques such as chikankari embroidery from Mijwan and Kashmir thread work were prominently featured, showcasing the skills of artisans from Delhi and Mumbai. Malhotra emphasized that this collection was not merely a single concept but a “living narrative” that highlights the artistry involved.

A Star-Studded Finale

The show culminated with Bollywood star Kriti Sanon, who closed the event in an elegant all-white ensemble adorned with pearls. The presentation was lavish and extravagant, reflecting the craftsmanship that went into each piece. Despite a delayed start, the beauty of the collection made the wait worthwhile.

Other Highlights from Dubai Fashion Week

Nura’s AI-Driven Collection

On the fifth day, Nura, touted as the region’s first eveningwear brand developed with artificial intelligence, made its debut. Launched late last year, the collection featured long gowns and Ramadan-friendly kaftans in rich hues like deep red, gold, and teal. While the designs were elegant, they appeared somewhat restrained, leaving audiences curious about how the brand would evolve in future collections.

Kresha Bajaj’s Intricate Designs

Mumbai-based designer Kresha Bajaj returned to Dubai Fashion Week with her collection, “Tempered,” which showcased intricate handwork and embellishments. The palette featured moody metallics, with designs ranging from a knitted grey mini dress adorned with silver paillettes to a boxy jacket embellished with sequins.

Lama Jouni’s Modern Essentials

Lama Jouni, a Dubai-based Lebanese designer, focused on redefining wardrobe essentials. Her collection emphasized menswear tailoring, featuring roomy suits and matching shirts. The designs also included feminine touches, such as loose-cut mini dresses cinched at the waist with corsets.

Evening Glamour by Dina Melwani

Dina Melwani, known for her occasion wear, presented a collection steeped in evening glamour. Highlights included a shift dress embellished with sequins and pearls, alongside a sculpted black velvet gown adorned with metallic embroidery. The runway was further enhanced by jewelry from Damiani.

Lili Blanc’s Empowering Statement

Dubai-based label Lili Blanc launched its new bags and shoes during its show titled “Chapter 11.” The collection featured oversized suede and leather carryalls, alongside a procession of leather garments that made a bold statement about female empowerment.

Absent Findings’ Gender-Neutral Approach

Shivin Singh, founder of Absent Findings, showcased a collection that explored gender-neutral tailoring. The designs included roomy pinstripe blazers for women and workwear shorts for men, all crafted from surplus fabrics and heirloom saris.

Emergency Room x Timberland Collaboration

Lebanese label Emergency Room unveiled a new collaboration with Timberland, continuing its commitment to sustainability. The collection featured innovative designs made from thrifted clothing and deadstock fabrics, including skirts fashioned from lace tablecloths and tops made from crochet blankets.

Mrs Keepa’s Edgy Presentation

Dubai’s Mrs Keepa opened the second day with a presentation focused on combating online cybercrime. The collection featured a wrapped bandage dress with the “Ctrl+Block” slogan, emphasizing themes of personal empowerment.

Narma’s Ethereal Creations

Saudi designer Noof Al Rashed presented her label Narma, which focused on balance and cultural dialogue. The collection featured lightweight, gossamer-like garments, including a translucent silk ensemble that evoked images of ancient Egyptian goddesses.

John Richmond’s Rebellious Showcase

John Richmond rounded out the week with a show that reflected his anti-establishment ethos. Known for dressing iconic figures like Madonna and Lady Gaga, Richmond presented designs that included a beaded Union Jack dress and intricately embroidered jackets.

Alberta Ferretti’s Modern Womanhood

The week commenced with Alberta Ferretti’s creative director Lorenzo Serafini, who introduced a collection that explored modern femininity. The designs featured soft ripples of fabric and a blend of romantic and contemporary elements, showcasing a new direction for the brand.

Dubai Fashion Week successfully highlighted the rich diversity of talent in the fashion industry, with each designer contributing their unique voice to the global conversation.

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Published on 2026-02-08 08:00:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk