Dubai Fashion Week 2024: A Creative Journey
By Sanika Rane, 2nd Year B.Voc Student
Dubai Fashion Week 2024 was a transformative experience that left an indelible mark on my journey as a fashion student. Attending this prestigious global event felt like a dream come true. It brought together some of the world’s most celebrated designers, brands, and fashion professionals, creating a platform where creativity, innovation, and artistry were celebrated in their truest form.
As part of the residential program, I had the incredible privilege of immersing myself in this dynamic world for ten unforgettable days. This journey wasn’t just about witnessing high-end fashion—it was about actively participating behind the scenes, networking with industry leaders, and proudly showcasing our own collection on one of the most esteemed runways in the world. Through this blog, I hope to share the highlights and lessons from this truly enriching experience.
The first five days of our program were dedicated to working at Dubai Fashion Week, held at the energetic and inspiring Dubai Design District. The atmosphere was electric, buzzing with creative energy and cutting-edge design. Legendary names such as Roberto Cavalli, Buttonscarves, Riva, Deme by Gabriella, Heaven Lights, Michael Cinco, Itrh, and Rizman Ruzaini unveiled their stunning collections. Each runway look was a masterpiece—an ode to craftsmanship, innovation, and storytelling.
Working both front of house and backstage gave me a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to execute a global fashion event. On the front end, I witnessed the glamour and theatrics of fashion shows, where models walked with poise under the spotlight and the audience watched in awe. Backstage, however, was a whirlwind of controlled chaos—models dashing for quick changes, designers making last-minute adjustments, and production teams ensuring every second ran like clockwork. It was here that I truly understood the intense coordination, precision, and passion that make fashion week possible.
What impacted me most was the sheer dedication behind every element of the show. Every stitch, every silhouette, every embellishment spoke volumes about the hard work and artistic vision that went into its creation. Being part of this vibrant, fast-paced environment deepened my appreciation for the fashion industry and taught me lessons no classroom ever could.
From model fittings and runway rehearsals to minute detailing of every garment, I saw the immense effort it takes to bring a designer’s vision to life. Fashion, I learned, isn’t just about clothes—it’s about storytelling, identity, culture, and collaboration. Watching hairstylists, makeup artists, stylists, and photographers come together with such precision and flair was truly inspiring.
Meeting fashion icons, celebrities, influencers, and industry veterans was another highlight. These conversations opened my eyes to the many facets of the fashion world—design, business, marketing, and media. Each individual, whether behind the lens or on the runway, played a vital role in the ecosystem. Their professionalism and passion left a lasting impression on me.
The most exhilarating moment of all was the opportunity to present our own creation on the Dubai Fashion Week runway. In collaboration with the London School of Trends, our team designed a garment inspired by Bidriware pottery—a traditional Indian art form known for its intricate metal inlay work. We chose to pay tribute to this legacy through luxurious fabrics like velvet and jacquard, blending traditional aesthetics with modern silhouettes.
Seeing our design come to life on the runway was surreal—a culmination of months of ideation, hard work, and unwavering dedication. Preparing for a fashion show of this scale is no easy feat. From concept development and fabric sourcing to sampling and final fittings, every detail was meticulously planned. We faced our share of setbacks, including fabric delays and construction challenges, but we tackled them head-on with the support of our mentors and teammates.
The final moment—watching our creation dazzle under the runway lights—made every struggle worth it. It was a powerful reminder of what collaboration, perseverance, and creativity can achieve.
Beyond the fashion week itself, Dubai as a city was an endless source of inspiration. With its harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, the city radiates innovation, culture, and luxury. From the architectural marvels of the Museum of the Future and Burj Khalifa to the serenity of The Palm Jumeirah and the opulence of the Atlantis and Versace Hotel, every corner of Dubai tells a story.
But more than the grandeur, it was Dubai’s spirit of inclusivity and warmth that truly stood out. It’s a melting pot of cultures and ideas, embracing the past while innovating for the future—much like fashion itself.
As I look back on this incredible experience, I am filled with gratitude. I extend my heartfelt thanks to NIF Global Ghatkopar and our mentors, whose constant guidance and support made this journey possible. Their belief in us helped us dream big and push beyond our limits.
Dubai Fashion Week 2024 was not just an event—it was a milestone in my journey as a designer in the making. The insights, relationships, and confidence I gained will stay with me forever and shape the designer I aspire to become.
To fellow aspiring fashion professionals: embrace every opportunity, step out of your comfort zone, and let your creativity shine. The path may be challenging, but the growth and experiences it brings are priceless.
