Dubai Fashion Week AW26/27 kicked off on Sunday, marking the start of five-days of runway shows and presentations. Day one opened with Italian luxury house Alberta Ferretti, who staged their first full-scale runway show in the Middle East, setting the tone for the for week ahead.

The day followed by presentations, where the theme balanced innovation with a modest sensibility. Many of the looks were rooted with traditional influence yet had a global resonance. With international buyers present and fashion insiders filling the the front rows, the evening reflected Dubai and its role as a cross-cultural launchpad, increasingly making its mark on the global fashion stage.

Alberta Ferretti

Italian luxury house Alberta Ferretti opened the global season with her first full-scale Middle East show, a strictly invite-only spectacle blending romantic bohemian silhouettes with intricate craftsmanship.

Under creative director Lorenzo Serafini, the collection expressed a nuanced vision of femininity rooted in elegance. Pieces featured fluid tailoring and flowy silhouettes, which translated seamlessly to the DFW runway. The result was a timeless show,  bridging creative cultures with global resonance.

Mrs. Keepa

Mrs. Keepa brought a sense of intimacy to Dubai Fashion Week with a showroom presentation that attracted an audience of industry insiders and dedicated fashion followers. The label, recognised for its balance of playfulness and sophistication, showcased a collection featuring immaculate detailing and everyday silhouettes, bringing a sense of ease that felt both modern and intentional.

Ludovic de Saint Sernin 

Ludovic de Saint Sernin presented a showroom centred on sensual ready-to-wear pieces that balanced elegance with an unmistakable edge. Titled Heat, the collection leaned into restrained aesthetics, with constructed essentials softened by fluid proportions and subtle detailing. Signature lace-up leather briefs were reimagined at full-leg length, while oversized trenches in reflective silver laminates and flame-retardant organza trains introduced couture-level precision.