(MENAFN- The Peninsula) By Amna Pervaiz Rao / The Peninsula
The 12th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition with 'Qatar National Day theme officially opened yesterday with a series of fashion shows showcasing the latest in Arabian and modest fashion, alongside inspiring discussions on women's empowerment in fashion and arts.
The event was formally opened by Dr. Sheikha Aisha Al Thani, philanthropist and supporter of education and entrepreneurship in Qatar, as well as Mashal Shahbik, Director of Festivals and Tourism Events at Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and officials of Design Creationz, the exhibition organiser.
Talking to The Peninsula, Ibteihaj Al Ahmadani, Head of Health Committee at Qatar Chamber said: 'I feel proud in increase of our Qatari designers in this edition. The increase shows nothing can stop the state of Qatar to succeed. This year, we are more positive in bringing new and productive things for future. Looking at the beautiful collection themed under ‘Qatar National Day' has added more beauty to this exhibition. I would say this opening has brought many countries together under one roof, we are excited to see all the fashion shows and attend all workshops during these days.
The opening also witnessed a fashion show presenting bespoke abaya designs, developed by 15 Qatari designers, to mark the upcoming Qatar National Day.
Sahar AL Hamood, a designer from Kuwait said: 'I am wearing this kaftan with Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani portrait on top, the love of the Emir is displayed in this dress. I have designed these kaftans especially for ‘Qatar National Day', we have used a material which is comfortable to be worn in summers and winters both.
The second day of Heya offers visitors a fashion show by Mexican designer Cristina Pineda, as well as QLabel, Sarah Al Saleh, and Harayer7. Guests can participate in forums on ‘H0ow Women Work: Lead a Successful and Confident Lifestyle' (16:00), ‘Fashion Buyer's Secrets Revealed' with Harvey Nichols (17:00), and ‘The Mainstream of Fashion: Does Modest Fashion Stand a Chance?' by Farida Khelfa, the French-Algerian model, actress and filmmaker (17:30).
In addition, workshops designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs will be taking place on Saturday evening, including; ‘Learn How QBIC's Services Can Get You Ahead' (16:30), ‘Social Media and Fashion, A Powerful Combination: Learn How it Works,' by the German Embassy (18:15), ‘Fashion Illustration, The Creative Process, The Mood & Design Board' by VCUQ (19:45) and a ‘Makeup Workshop with Sabrinecat' (20:10).
Held under the patronage of H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, Heya showcases the largest display of local designers to date. Overall, more than 150 abaya and modest fashion brands from over 15 countries are represented, including; Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, India, Turkey, Lebanon, Indonesia, Morocco, Spain, Germany, Italy, Sri Lanka, the UK, France, Mexico and Hong Kong for the first time.
Mashal Shahbik, Director of Festivals and Tourism Events at QTA, commented, 'Ensuring local entrepreneurs are well-represented in tourism events supports the local economy and guarantees an authentic experience for visitors. QTA is pleased to once again support our national products in this celebration of our cultural heritage, and we are delighted to welcome designers from around the world to share and enrich the Heya platform.
Esraa Abel, spokesperson for Design Creationz, said: 'Heya has evolved over the years, as people not only visit to shop and complete their collections, but also to learn about culture and modest fashion trends. For this edition, we have enhanced the visitor experience so designers are at the core of Design Creationz' vision. The show is a true representation of art, couture and luxury, and we are proud to provide a collaborative and commercial platform for Qatari, Arab and international fashion designers.
The 12th edition of Heya offers shoppers and visitors an assortment of unique collections, from high-street apparel, couture and luxury, to the latest modest fashion evening gowns, leather accessories, and for the first-time ever, perfumery and make-up. The ladies-only event is open to women and girls over 13 years old, taking place at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), until Tuesday (7 November). For more information on the 12th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition and its activities, please visit www.heya.qa, or alternatively follow Heya on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat Heya.qa, or YouTube. Visitors can also download the Heya mobile app to stay up-to-date with events and easily navigate brands and goods on offer.
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