Dubai is joining the league of global fashion capitals by hosting, for the first time in the Middle East, the acclaimed “Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience” in October 2013. In the run-up to the modern fashion phenomenon that aims at energizing the fashion retail industry, The Dubai Mall will welcome Franca Sozzani, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Italia, the trendiest and most influential Italian fashion magazine in the world, for a mentoring session for Emirati fashion designers in February 2013. Sozzani, who has been serving as Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Italia since 1988, will offer them insights on the newest trends in the fashion industry and evaluate their works. The “Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience” will not only put the spotlight on the newest fashion trends and creativity but also raise funds for Dubai Cares, a philanthropic organization working to improve children's access to quality primary education in developing countries. Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of Emaar Properties, said: “With the hosting of the Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience, Dubai is once again underlining its credentials as the region's fashion hub, led by the trend-setting showcase of high-end brands at The Dubai Mall.” “The event will serve as a magnet for fashion connoisseurs from across the region. It will also drive the growth of the fashion retail community in the mall with longer opening hours, special events and part of the proceeds going towards Dubai Cares, thus highlighting our responsibility to the community. The mentoring session by the fashion legend Franca Sozzani will put the spotlight on our city's talent, enabling them to emerge as global professionals,” he added. During the “Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience” select high-street and haute couture fashion brands from The Dubai Mall's Fashion Avenue will create and launch a special line of merchandise exclusively for the event. Part of the revenue from the sales of these custom-made fashionwear will go to Dubai Cares. Franca Sozzani, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Italia, said: “The Dubai Mall is a Fashion World. Vogue Italia is the Fashion Magazine. To make an event together means to welcome all the people who love fashion, and also to give an opportunity to young talents to show their creativity and their talent. But this event has another aim, too, and that is to raise funds for Dubai Cares which is one of the most internationally recognized organizations in helping children for education and health. We are really delighted to participate in such an incredible project and to underline how much The Dubai Mall and Vogue care about creativity and social opportunities.” — SG
