For Furne One, curvy is the new skinny

The curvier, plus-size models made big strides at the recent international fashion weeks in London and New York by edging the super-skinny off the catwalk.

But, normally such things happen in London or New York, a long time before they filter down to Dubai’s catwalk.

So, imagine my surprise when I chanced upon Dubai-based designer Furne One asking his models — during a fitting this weekend — to pour themselves into a body suit with big bottoms and exaggerated curves.

The result? The waif-like models would have done Beyoncé proud in their crystal-encrusted gowns.



 

“The size-zero trend has never appealed to me. My collection this season is the Vikings-meet-Lady Gaga look. I want my models to look curvier and happier,” said One, in-between his trial fitting sessions with the models on Friday.

His last two “curvier and happier” wishes did come true. For once, the bored-looking models were unnaturally perky as they joked around with their colleagues about their altered hips.

One’s outing at the Dubai Fashion Week, which began yesterday, is slated for the final day, on Wednesday, at 7.15pm.

“When I began designing my collections, I knew I wanted to create something that is edgy and that celebrates the curves of the women. I can’t wait to see what Dubai thinks of it,” One said.

He was not alone. More than 30 participating designers were doing some last-minute nip-and-tuck work at the fitting sessions prior to their big day on the catwalk.

Meanwhile, designer Mariam Al Mazro, who is participating in DFW for the fourth time, was not as optimistic.

“We spend quite a lot of money — more than Dh38,000 to participate in this fashion week. Though it has given my brand a lot of visibility, I want it to be financially viable too. It’s not easy to get back what you have spent,” Mazro said.

The designer, whose signature designs include vibrant kaftans and colourful jalabiyas, is keeping her fingers crossed on this one.

Sisters go metallic

The Beljafla sisters, who are returning to DFW with their abaya collections, were hoping that their metallic studding on the flowing black garment will sit well the Dubai’s fashion set.
“We have tried to weave in the latest trends like the metallic studding into the conservative abayas. It’s an unexpected twist, but the last time we had a very successful time at the Dubai Fashion Week.

“Everybody appreciated our efforts and these modern-yet-conservative abayas were in great demand,” Hind Beljafla said.