Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, January 15, 2025 – The Fashion Commission has launched the "Traditional Handcrafts Revival in Saudi Fashion" competition, an exciting initiative designed to celebrate and promote the rich cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia through traditional attire. In alignment with the Ministry of Culture’s Year of Handicrafts 2025, this competition aims to highlight the importance of Saudi cultural identity and preserve the country’s deep-rooted traditions while fostering the development of local talent in the creative design sector.
The competition is an invitation for designers and aspiring creators to delve into the intricacies of traditional Saudi fashion, learning about the design techniques and handcrafts that have shaped the nation’s sartorial history. Participants will be equipped with advanced knowledge of the technical and creative aspects of fashion design, gaining a deeper appreciation for Saudi heritage, architecture, and craftsmanship. The initiative emphasizes the preservation of cultural identity while encouraging innovation within the realm of traditional design.
To support the participants’ creative process, the Fashion Commission will host a comprehensive five-day workshop, led by industry experts and professionals in the field. The workshop will cover four key areas: traditional fashion design, Saudi heritage and architecture, fashion handcrafts, and creative fashion skills. This immersive training program will provide participants with the tools needed to incorporate traditional elements and design artistry into their fashion creations.
As part of the competition, participants are tasked with designing unique fashion pieces that reflect local traditions and showcase the distinct artistry found in Saudi culture. The designs will then be submitted for assessment by a specialized panel of experts, carefully selected by the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth). This panel will evaluate the submissions based on creativity, adherence to traditional themes, and overall craftsmanship.
The winning design will be announced on February 16, and the chosen piece will be prominently featured at the Fashion Commission’s exhibition during the Saudi Cup 2025, which coincides with the celebration of Saudi Founding Day. This exhibition provides an exceptional platform to showcase the winning creation to a broad audience, further promoting the fusion of heritage and contemporary fashion.
The "Traditional Handcrafts Revival in Saudi Fashion" competition is more than just a design challenge – it is a powerful initiative that aims to raise awareness of the Kingdom’s traditional handcrafts, preserve its cultural legacy, and provide valuable training and mentorship to emerging local talent. By offering an opportunity for participants to hone their skills while celebrating Saudi Arabia’s rich fashion heritage, the competition plays a key role in developing the next generation of creative designers who will shape the future of Saudi fashion.