The multicultural backdrop in the region gets designers’ creative juices flowing by providing the wiggle room to draw eclectic inspirations. It complements the fashion-conscious generation’s unique preferences and eccentric choices. Specializing in the “glocal” approach to fashion — the interpretation of global trends through the lens of local cultural sensibilities — REDTAG believes the wide gamut of fashion, from modest to bohemian styles, will witness some newness in 2024. Shehbaz summarized those developments while outlining what REDTAG has in store for the new year.
The contemporary casuals of 2024
Casuals are the mainstay of fashion because of their regularity in our lives. As a result, they tend to be highly synced with the idea of “contemporary”. In 2024, REDTAG anticipates denim dressing re-running the textile culture, with classic colours like sky blue evoking nostalgia and neutrals like olive green bringing the element of newness. Co-ords, in subdued paisley and ethno prints, and generous use of linen will characterize contemporary casuals in the new year, along with an emphasis on craftsmanship, with REDTAG embracing the embroidery, cutwork, needle lacing of “Broderie”.
The rise of ethical and sustainable approaches
The global textile industry is now increasingly and transparently pivoting to ethical and sustainable models. Due to a geographical advantage, GCC economies are well-positioned to make decisive supply-chain changes and align with the broader movement. Supported by the takeaways of the recently concluded COP28 in the UAE and sustainability initiatives in the run-up to it, the regional fashion industry is witnessing a broad consensus for meaningful transformations. The resulting impact, REDTAG says, will be evident in fashion retail strategies in 2024.
Ramadan consumerism
Retail strategies are also primed for more Ramadan influence in 2024. The impact of the most-celebrated period/festival in the region has been phenomenal on fashion retail, characterized by increased spending and a trends-centric approach to shopping. Ramadan fashion trends often revolve around iftar parties and community gatherings. According to REDTAG, 2024 will see more propensity toward muted glitters and unique textures and trims.
In anticipation of spring-summer
SS24 is often the most-anticipated collection due to its year-round appeal. In the Middle East, the in-between period from the advent of spring to the end of summer offers a long window of opportunity to sport casuals and dressy attire. Breezy dresses with subtle craftsmanship, in chambray blue and pastel lilac, are expected to be in vogue in 2024.
Boho and its expanding boundaries
Bohemian styles are fashion’s greatest conversation starters because of their unapologetic expression. They draw different perspectives just as well as they avoid getting boxed into one design paradigm, giving the wearer the unique identity they crave. As a homegrown brand that has kept pace with customer movements in the region, REDTAG sees a growing demand for culturally conscious boho styles — something that inspired its A’aniqa collection. Arabic for “unique”, A’aniqa is gearing up for ethnic-inspired designs and prints in earthy tones of brown, green, rust, and deep reds. The idea, REDTAG asserts, is for clothes to remain rooted in culture while always keeping with the times.
