The 2022 Fashion Trust Arabia Prize Winners Announced

In Doha yesterday the creme de la creme of fashion and no shortage of Qatari royalty gathered at the M7 for the nation’s annual Fashion Trust Arabia Prize. Her Highness Sheika Moza Bin Nasser was joined by Fashion Trust Arabia Founder Tania Fares, to watch the ceremony presented by actress Jodie Turner-Smith and comedian Nemr Abou Nassar. Not just a passive participant, Her Highness (a bonafide style icon herself) later presented the Evening Wear category award to Arsi Ifrach of Maison ARTC. The well deserved win went to the Moroccan atelier thanks to its brilliant balance of modern silhouettes and traditional craft techniques, along with its penchants for transforming vintage textiles into covetable designs.

Ifrach was just one of the 6 winners at last night’s festivities. 24 designer finalists presented their collections to the FTA Jury (a mix of prestigious industry heavy hitters), at the M7 cultural centre in Doha. Joining Ifrach as prize winners include Silham and Sarah Albinali who took home the ready-to-wear prize for their label Lurline. Fatma Mostafa won the jewellery award, while Eilaf Osman received the accessories award. Each winner received financial backing of up to $200,000 to help grow their brands, along with mentorship from key FTA partners. Along with that, they will begin a unique partnership with MATCHESFASHION who will stock their brands on its website in addition to offering business mentorship.

Along with the main design accolades, the Franca Sozzani Debut Talent Award (named after the legendary Vogue Italia editor), and Guest Country Award were presented. Kazna Asker took home the Franca Sozzani award for their modern take on modest fashion. The Central Saint Martin’s MA graduate was the first to present a hijabi collection at the prestigious design school’s graduate show earlier this year. As for the Guest Country Award, the honour went to Turkish designer Burç Akyol for their genderless, austere approach to design.