Beyond its fun festivals, Dubai Design District, aka D3, is a hotbed for regional fashion. From bespoke contemporary brands to couture houses that are loved globally, there’s plenty to dig into that you won’t find at your average mall. And as the social season is in its full throttle, what better way to explore the labels than through their occasion wear? Centred through craftsmanship, luxe fabrics, and elegant yet spotlight hogging designs, bookmark these maisons for your next D3 visit.
Gemy Maalouf
Occasion wear is simply more than just a party dress and Gemy Maalouf understands that all too well. Their pieces are a play on form, texture, silhouette, and design. Sequins, beads, and floral appliques are common motifs, but there are also plenty of other options where the focus lies solely on cut and drape and paired with capes to keep things modest. Beyond the standard ready-to-wear collection, the Lebanses atelier also offers customisable pieces, creating something truly one-of-a-kind.
Hessa Falasi
This contemporary abaya brand has been on our radar for its selection of bespoke velvet kaftans. However, their abayas are just as breathtaking and just as luxe, with delicate embroidery and rich fabrics like their velvet collections. The brand also features a sustainable shopping concept, with a sustainable collection that embraces zero waste while creating.
Lili Blanc
Dynamic, bold, and made for the modern woman, Lili Blanc’s pieces are for when you’ve stuffed up your social calendar and have no time to change. Made to transition seamlessly from day to night, their pieces are comfortable, versatile, and defined by clean lines. Our favourites are their co-oord sets and tailored suits that range from elegant mermaid cut skirts and jackets to boxy, masculine blazers and trousers.
Kristina Fidelskaya
Kristina Fidelskaya brings softness, sentimentality, and extreme femininity into each stitch. However, the brand’s pieces are still modern in their contemporary design, emphasising sharp lines while accentuating the body. It’s no wonder we see their creations on many iconic women, from Nancy Arjam to Mona Zaki. To keep things comfortable for the modest dresser, the brand also offers a collection of capes, ponchos, and jackets that are rich with details, making it a dynamic add-on to an outfit.
Maison Yeya
With an impressive clientele list—think Gulf royalty, regional and international first ladies, foreign dignitaries, and celebrities—expect nothing but sheer luxe with Maison Yeya. The French-Egyptian couture house is known for its ethereal, fairytale-like creations, complete with fine detailing expected from a couture house.
Marmar Halim
Marmar Halim | Pleated Silk Capelet Gown | Dhs 12400
With their pieces frequently spotted at red carpets, Egyptian maison Maramr Halim creates with the spotlight in mind. Featuring couture gowns, bespoke evening dresses, and a dedicated edit of modest wear, there is plenty for the modest dresser to choose from.
Michael Cinco
Another couture house loved by the celeb world is Michael Cinco. however, their ready-to-wear is just as glamorous. Bringing sparkle to dresses and understated sophistication to their tailored suits, their pieces fit perfectly for a winter wedding, refined but not over the top.
Wear That
And finally, we have Wear That, a styling platform that is an absolute cheat code for getting the perfect outfit. All you have to do is take a quiz, and you’re immediately given pieces to try out. For those not looking to add anything new, their Style My Wardrobe feature brings a personal stylist into your home to repurpose your wardrobe, making sure you can make the most of what you have. And to those simply searching for inspiration, Wear That features plenty of moodboards and curated edits to help kickstart those creative juices!
