Sparkle and style

Despite the sudden showers, Dubai's fashion lovers turned up in large numbers for the opening show at Dubai International Fashion Week (DIFW) by Walid Atallah.

The Dubai based-Lebanese designer showcased his spring/summer 2007 collection, which he recently presented in Rome. The collection, inspired by royalty, comprised elegant evening gowns in jewel tones with plenty of sparkle and style.

Palette

The palette included gold, silver, deep purple and jewel tones such as ruby, emerald and aquamarine. The gowns were embellished with Swarovski crystals in jewel colours, beads, feathers, ruffles and bows.

Atallah's clever mix of textures, colours and prints such as tulle with leather and chiffon with printed velvet and different shades of silver and grey gave the collection a fresh look. The white gowns with black appliqué work were striking as was the brocade wedding gown with a gold train.

Dream

"There is a big market for fashion in this region and I am happy that an event like this has been organised. This is a good beginning for our dream of making Dubai the centre of the fashion world," said the designer.