Fashion Commission Completes 'Building A Fashion Brand' Programme To Empower Saudi Designers

The Fashion Commission recently wrapped up a five-day program called "Building a Fashion Brand" at the Future Creative Residence in Riyadh. This initiative aimed to empower Saudi talents and equip budding designers with the necessary skills to launch their fashion brands. The program was conducted in collaboration with Fondazione Sozzani, an institution that promotes sustainable fashion and cultural preservation.

Participants engaged in lectures, workshops, and brand development activities led by international experts. The program was overseen by Sara Sozzani Maino, Creative Director of Fondazione Sozzani, known for her work with Vogue Italia and Vogue Talents. Riccardo Terzo, a stylist and editor from DUST China, also contributed his expertise in talent scouting and fashion imagery history.

The curriculum covered various aspects such as brand identity, storytelling, visual language, portfolio development, and responsible fashion practices. Participants explored how to define personal and brand identity while developing integrated visual and written narratives. They learned about contemporary fashion imagery and communication methods.

Participants were encouraged to build design approaches rooted in sustainability, responsibility, and professional ethics. They enhanced their strategic development skills through research and moodboards. Opportunities for collaboration were explored alongside building integrated creative ecosystems.

The program included individual mentoring sessions focused on refining vision, strategy, and identity. Participants' perspectives were broadened through documentary screenings, open discussions, and analytical studies of global brands like Jacquemus and Wales Bonner. These activities helped strengthen awareness of international trends.

On the final day, participants presented their developed brand concepts before a panel of experts. They showcased identity statements, visual visions, and strategic foundations for each brand. An official ceremony marked the conclusion of the program at the Future Creative Residence where participants received certificates of completion.

Future Initiatives

This initiative reflects the Fashion Commission’s dedication to empowering Saudi designers while enhancing global creative exchange. Through partnerships with international institutions like Fondazione Sozzani, the commission continues to develop programs supporting emerging talents in Saudi Arabia's fashion scene.

The Sozzani Foundation is set to launch another program titled "Content Creation in Fashion" under the Fashion Commission's supervision in Milan. A group of Saudi designers has been selected to participate including one designer nominated from this recent program ensuring continuity of learning.

The "Building a Fashion Brand" program underscores the commitment to fostering a sustainable fashion ecosystem within Saudi Arabia that meets future needs. By equipping designers with essential knowledge and tools through strategic partnerships, the commission aims to elevate the Kingdom's fashion industry on a global scale.

With inputs from SPA