Saudi Arabia hosts historic swimwear fashion show

Saudi Arabia hosts historic swimwear fashion show

Saudi Arabia held its first fashion show featuring swimsuit models on Friday, May 17, 2024, in a groundbreaking move for the conservative country. The poolside show at the St Regis Red Sea Resort featured the work of Moroccan designer Yasmina Qanzal and included mostly one-piece suits in shades of red, beige, and blue. Most models had exposed shoulders, and some had their midriffs partially visible.

This event marked a significant step in a country where women were previously required to wear body-covering abaya robes. The show was part of the inaugural Red Sea Fashion Week, held at the luxury resort situated off Saudi Arabia’s western coast.

Designer Yasmina Qanzal expressed her excitement about being part of this historic moment, saying, “It’s true that this country is very conservative, but we tried to show elegant swimsuits which represent the Arab world.” She added that it was an honor to be involved in the event, which she believed would pave the way for future fashion shows in the country.

The fashion industry in Saudi Arabia has been growing rapidly, with a reported value of $12.5 billion in 2022, accounting for 1.4% of the national GDP and employing 230,000 people.

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Attendees at the show included Syrian fashion influencer Shouq Mohammed, who noted that the event was not surprising given Saudi Arabia’s efforts to open up to the world and grow its fashion and tourism sectors. French influencer Raphael Simacourbe also praised the event, calling it a “brave” move in the Saudi context.

The show is seen as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 social and economic reform program, aimed at softening Saudi Arabia’s austere image and promoting a more modern and inclusive culture. Recent reforms have included the reintroduction of cinemas, mixed-gender music festivals, and the sidelining of religious police who once enforced strict dress codes.

While the fashion show marked a significant step forward, it’s important to note that Saudi Arabia still has a long way to go in terms of women’s rights and social freedoms. However, events like this fashion show signal a promising shift towards a more progressive and inclusive society.

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