The second day of Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) SS’25 delivered an explosion of creativity, innovation, and elegance, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the event. As the sun set over Dubai’s stunning skyline, international designers unveiled their collections, leaving the audience mesmerized by the fusion of global influences and local craftsmanship. Attendees, dressed in everything from floor-length evening gowns to impeccably tailored daywear, sipped Lavazza drinks as they mingled in anticipation of the day’s spectacular line-up. From bold, avant-garde designs to timeless pieces that exuded understated luxury, the collections reflected a deep understanding of fashion as both an art form and a cultural stapple.
Adolfo Domínguez: The Philosophy of IKIGAI
Kicking off the day was the revered Spanish fashion house Adolfo Domínguez with their Autumn-Winter 2024 IKIGAI collection. The collection was a masterclass in blending the minimalist aesthetic of Japanese philosophy with modern European sophistication. The concept of IKIGAI, which translates to “finding one’s purpose in life,” was woven into each piece, from the subtle textures of crumpled fabrics to the fluidity of cascading ruffles. The designs, created in the Ágora Creative Laboratory, radiated an aura of quiet confidence, with asymmetrical cuts and a carefully chosen color palette that balanced neutral tones with vibrant hues.
What truly stood out was the commitment to sustainability—a hallmark of Domínguez’s ethos. Each garment felt as though it was crafted not just for the season but to endure beyond the fast-paced trends of fashion, a testament to the brand’s focus on timeless fashion and responsible consumption. Adriana Domínguez, the brand’s Executive President, was present at the exhibition, underscoring the house’s dedication to ethical fashion. For those of us from LATAM, Domínguez is more than a brand—it’s an institution. His classic designs, beloved by the men in my family, carry a sense of refinement that feels both accessible and aspirational. The IKIGAI collection, with its homage to both tradition and modernity, hit all the right notes, even though I found myself yearning for the grandeur of a full runway experience. The intimate showcase gave us a chance to admire the craftsmanship up close, allowing the beauty of each design to speak for itself.
Ihab Jiryis: The Monarch Butterfly in Couture
Following Domínguez, the mood shifted from understated elegance to opulent glamour as Ihab Jiryis took the stage with his Spring/Summer 2025 collection. Inspired by the transformative journey of the monarch butterfly, Jiryis presented a collection that was a celebration of femininity, growth, and empowerment. His gowns fluttered down the runway like delicate wings, each piece intricately embroidered and designed to capture the essence of transformation.
Jiryis’ ability to blend art and innovation was evident in every stitch, with high-end couture elements that catered to women who aren’t afraid to stand out. His use of playful silhouettes—from voluminous skirts to fitted bodices—combined with an eye for detail, created gowns that felt both regal and relevant. Whether destined for a lavish gala, an extravagant wedding, or a high-society soirée, Jiryis’ designs exuded a confidence that celebrated the modern woman’s journey.
The bridal-inspired touches and carefully curated color palette added an extra layer of sophistication, while his exploration of feminine beauty and elegance solidified his place as a leading name in Middle Eastern couture. Jiryis’ collection wasn’t just about the clothes—it was a visual narrative of transformation, mirroring the metamorphosis of the monarch butterfly in every graceful movement on the runway.
Weinsanto: Daring Femininity with a Gothic Edge
As the day progressed, the energy reached its peak when Victor Weinsanto took the runway with his latest collection, Lady de Weinsanto, presented by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode. Weinsanto, known for his fearless approach to fashion, delivered an audacious collection that combined Gothic undertones with vibrant, playful accents. This was no ordinary showcase—this was a celebration of resilient femininity through the lens of bold silhouettes, intricate corsetry, and innovative materials like Sophie Halette’s lace and dead-stock leather.
Set to a hauntingly beautiful orchestral score by Ugo Nardini, the collection felt like a punk rock opera. Black dominated the runway, but it was punctuated by acid greens, fiery fuchsias, and striking reds, giving the collection a sense of rebellious grandeur. Weinsanto’s designs were a nod to the daring spirit of Jean Paul Gaultier, yet they had a modern edge that felt uniquely his own.
One of the standout pieces was an oversized, strapless XXL bag, crafted from dead-stock leather—a sustainable twist that emphasized Weinsanto’s dedication to circular fashion. The fusion of textures and silhouettes was exhilarating, with corsets that redefined traditional femininity and added an element of power and intrigue. It was a collection that dared to challenge norms while celebrating the strength and beauty of the female form. For me, Weinsanto’s collection was the highlight of the day—a visual feast that reminded us of the daring, disruptive power of fashion.
The entire day buzzed with excitement, from the intricate details of each designer’s collection to the electric atmosphere that filled the venue. Lavazza’s refreshing drinks provided the perfect pick-me-up, as attendees continued to admire the sartorial artistry unfolding before their eyes. Dubai Fashion Week Day Two was a testament to the city’s position as a global fashion capital, where tradition meets innovation, and where designers from across the world come to make bold, lasting notes.. As the final looks graced the runway, it was clear that DFW is not just about the clothes—it’s about celebrating the transformative power of fashion.
