Nafsika Skourti | Day 1 Fashion Forward Dubai | Hai at Dubai Design District
On Day 1 of Fashion Forward, there was a certain amount of expectation surrounding a designer who comes with such an impressive CV as Nafsika Skourti. A Central Saint Martins graduate, with stints at Marchesa and École Lesage under her belt already, the debut of her eponymous line at Fashion Forward this season was billed as unmissable.
The Luxe Diary were ushered into the large, open presentation space, dressed simply with two arm chairs, a side table and neon screens displaying provocative messages. It certainly had the desired effect; everyone was intrigued as to what would come out from behind the curtain.
Based on Haifa, the modern day Arab pin-up girl, the collection is a fitting tribute to the extrovert in all of us. It plays on the notion that all girls want to emulate this person, whilst all the boys are infatuated with her brashness and confidence.
Speaking to Harper’s Bazaar Arabia ahead of her unveiling, she disclosed: “This collection is rooted in the idea of a midnight rendez-vous. What’s interesting is everyone who has interacted with this coat cannot help but zip it open. I find that childlike instinct so funny.”
Our verdict? From the first few beats, you can’t help but be charmed by the electro 70s vibe Nafsika cultivates throughout her collection. Infused with oversized sequins, cut out detailing and luxe fabrics, it’s wearable yet has a certain sophistication, which of course we have come to expect from the luxury industry as a whole.
We can easily see fishnets and glitter stilettos making a firm return to the spotlight come FW17, whilst the array of backless dresses, flared jumpsuits and velvet skirts on display will undoubtedly translate well for the party season.
It’s an accomplished, well-presented collection that suitably demonstrates her flair and technical skill. The pieces may be suggestive at times, but that’s the beauty of this urban brand – it doesn’t set out to be breathtakingly beautiful, it’s more rooted in realism.
Mirrored dresses inspired by the Dubai skyscrapers for example; a cultural nod to the place that plays host to her debut- an undeniable triumph.
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Words by Laura Roberts for The Luxe Diary
Images: Getty Images