Riyadh Fashion Week 2025 is dedicated to the fashion industry of Saudi Arabia, and an insider powerhouse like Atelier Hekayat and Abadia will be featured.
Both labels provided a spectacular performance that combined both the cultural heritage and the contemporary design, and the creative head of both labels addressed Arab News on what it means to participate in the annual performance.
According to show notes, Atelier Hekayat unveiled its new collection Thursday with a poetic and theatrical line named “A Ticket to the Theater,” inspired by the transformative magic of performance.
The presentation honored those who make stories come alive backstage, both in the theater and in fashion, and featured flowing silhouettes, bold cuts, and elaborate embellishments.
The sister designers, Alia and Abeer Oraif, stated Arab News that “This collection is a tribute to every soul who has ever stood behind the curtain. The silent heroes who made us laugh, cry, and believe in magic.”
They further reported that “We wanted to celebrate the moment a woman embraces herself with love and grace. It’s a story of self-love and confidence reborn under the spotlight.”
The event of their presentation in Riyadh was particularly important to the brand. They also said to Riyadh Fashion Week that it might run until October 21, stating that “This year’s participation means the world to us. It’s a celebration of our journey — of who we are and where we come from.”
Saudi label Abadia brought to a close the second day of Riyadh Fashion Week with a collection that resonated with heritage and the sense of elegance.
The designs were characterized with massive soft silhouettes, elaborate layering, and exquisite fabrics such as silk, velvet, and wool.
The combination of subdued pastels and deep burgundy and a warm palette of browns, creams, and golds was building the mood of reflection and power.
The innovation power behind Abadia belongs to Shahd Al-Shehail, who, together with her aunt, Naeema Al-Shehail, co-founded the brand.
The designer stated to Arab News that “This collection is very personal to me. It is inspired by my grandfather’s story when he was young and ventured into the sea to mark his coming of age.”
That coming-of-age experience became the emotional keystone of the collection, a symbol of bravery and growth. She said, “It reminded me of what it means to choose courage over comfort. To surrender, and to embrace the unknown.”
In this perspective, Abadia was inspired by the heritage of the pearl diving communities and gave a tribute to the strength of the women who supported their families as the men were away at sea for a long time. The collection perfectly combined power and delicacy, a balance that the brand is all about.
The designer added, “This year feels different. It feels like a moment of coming full circle. Our brand has grown, but our purpose remains the same: to honor our roots while continuing to evolve with courage and intention.”
She further said that the event in the capital, stating, “It is more than just a show. It is a chance to share our story with the world, to celebrate Saudi creativity, and to highlight the craftsmanship that defines our work.”
