If day one of Dubai Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2026/27 felt composed and measured, day two opened up the conversation. The schedule brought together designers working in very different ways — from conceptual presentations to heritage-led collections and high-energy runway moments — all tied together by a clear focus on how clothes feel, move, and speak on the body.
The day opened with Mrs. Keepa x CTRL + BLOCK, presented as part of e&’s cultural initiative, where fashion moved beyond the runway and into conversation. The presentation and panel explored ideas of identity, creativity, and authorship in today’s digital landscape, with Mrs. Keepa sharing her personal creative perspective. What stood out was how the clothing supported the dialogue — clean silhouettes, thoughtful construction, and a sense of restraint that allowed the ideas to breathe. Rather than overpowering the message, the looks acted as a quiet extension of it, reinforcing fashion as a medium for expression rather than just product.
A shift in mood followed with NIF Global x London School of Trends, where emerging designers brought craft to the forefront. Handwoven textiles, traditional techniques, and contemporary silhouettes came together in a way that felt fresh rather than nostalgic. The collections balanced heritage with wearability — clothes that respected where they came from while clearly belonging to a global, modern wardrobe. There was confidence here, especially impressive for designers still early in their journeys.
Celebrating five years, THAT Concept Store took a different approach, offering a curated womenswear showcase that highlighted the power of selection. Featuring international names like Rabanne, Mugler, and Magda Butrym, the edit focused on strong silhouettes, sculpted forms, and expressive femininity. Each look felt deliberate, reinforcing THAT’s reputation for championing fashion that is bold, directional, and culturally relevant.
One of the most memorable moments of the day came from Saudi-based brand NARMA, making its Dubai Fashion Week debut with the collection The Agal. Traditionally worn by Arab men, the agal was reimagined through a feminine lens — transformed into sculptural shapes in soft pinks and whites. Embellished with pearls, sequins, and crystals, the pieces felt playful yet considered. It was a thoughtful take on heritage, allowing tradition to evolve through material and movement rather than formality.
Closing the day on a completely different note was John Richmond, whose collection Viva Richmond! brought an unmistakable surge of energy to the runway. Leather, studs, bold silhouettes, and rock-inspired detailing defined the looks, blending the house’s iconic past with a contemporary edge. The collection celebrated individuality and attitude, reminding us that fashion can still feel raw, expressive, and unapologetic. It was a strong finish — confident, loud in the right way, and full of personality.
Running alongside the runway shows, the DFW Buyers’ Programme continued at Dubai Design District, giving global retailers access to emerging talent and established names alike. The showroom buzz reflected the diversity seen on the runway — proof that Dubai Fashion Week is not about one look or one voice, but many.
By the end of day two, one thing felt clear: Dubai Fashion Week AW26/27 thrived in contrast. From craft to curation, heritage to rebellion, the clothes told their own stories — and each did so in a way that felt honest, current, and wearable.
