In a groundbreaking move, Saudi Arabia hosted its inaugural swimwear fashion show on Friday, showcasing the creations of Moroccan designer Yasmina Qanzal. This event marks a significant departure from the country's conservative norms, where just a few years ago, women were mandated to wear body-covering abaya robes.
The poolside exhibition, featuring predominantly one-piece swimsuits in hues of red, beige, and blue, represented a bold statement of elegance and style. Many of the models presented designs with exposed shoulders, while some even revealed partially visible midriffs.
Yasmina Qanzal expressed her sentiments regarding the historic significance of the event, stating, "When we came here, we understood that a swimsuit fashion show in Saudi Arabia is a historic moment because it is the first time to have such an event." She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to this momentous occasion.
The fashion extravaganza took place as part of the inaugural Red Sea Fashion Week at the esteemed St Regis Red Sea Resort, located off the western coast of Saudi Arabia. This resort is a part of Red Sea Global, one of the ambitious giga-projects integral to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Crown Prince Mohammed, a proponent of progressive reforms, has led efforts to modernize Saudi society and diversify its economy. These reforms have included measures to relax stringent social norms, such as curbing the authority of religious police and reintroducing cultural and entertainment events.
However, alongside these strides towards modernization, there have been instances of heightened repression targeting dissenting voices, including conservative clerics critical of the reforms.
Attendees of the swimwear fashion show, such as Syrian fashion influencer Shouq Mohammed and French influencer Raphael Simacourbe, lauded the event as a reflection of Saudi Arabia's aspirations to engage with the global fashion and tourism industries. Mohammed emphasized the importance of embracing such initiatives, highlighting the growth potential of the fashion sector within the Saudi economy.
Simacourbe commended the organizers' courage in hosting the show, acknowledging the significance of the event within the context of Saudi society. Despite differing cultural norms, both influencers recognized the show as a symbol of progress and inclusivity.
