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Max Fashion, the region’s leading value fashion brand, has unveiled its newly revamped store at Doha Festival City (DFC), introducing a refreshed retail concept designed to elevate the customer experience. The relaunch marks an important step in Max Fashion’s evolution, bringing a contemporary, design-led environment to one of Qatar’s most popular lifestyle destinations.The upgraded store features Max Fashion’s latest global concept, defined by clean lines, natural textures, and an open, intuitive layout that allows customers to explore collections with ease. Warm wood accents, modern lighting, and inviting visual displays create a seamless and engaging atmosphere that reflects the brand’s shift toward a more modern and fashion-forward identity.**media[391853]**The space offers an enhanced journey through womenswear, menswear, kidswear, beauty, footwear, and accessories, all curated to meet the needs of today’s diverse and style-conscious shoppers. Hani Weiss, CEO of Max at Landmark Group, said: “Doha Festival City has always been a strategic location for Max Fashion, and this relaunch represents our commitment to continuously evolve with our customers. The new concept reflects our ambition to deliver a more elevated yet accessible shopping experience that aligns with Max’s growth and our vision for the future of retail in the region.”The revamped store also places strong emphasis on customer comfort and convenience, introducing improved fitting rooms, better product zoning, and upgraded visual storytelling that helps shoppers discover new arrivals and seasonal trends effortlessly. The experience is designed to bring Doha’s dynamic and cosmopolitan spirit into the heart of the retail space.Shumalan Naicker, senior vice-president and country head, Landmark Group Qatar, added: “The Doha Festival City store has always been a key touchpoint for our brand in Qatar. With this refreshed concept, we are creating an environment that feels warmer, more intuitive, and more in tune with what customers expect today. It’s a space built around inspiration, discovery, and a much more personalised shopping experience.”The relaunch of Max Fashion at DFC reinforces the brand’s commitment to offering stylish, high-quality, and affordable fashion, supported by a modern store identity that continues to evolve in line with global trends and regional customer preferences. The newly refurbished Max Fashion store at DFC is now open to welcome customers and offer an elevated shopping experience for individuals and families across Qatar. 

QNB Group has revealed a wide range of brands, giving the opportunity to its QNB First members “to enjoy unforgettable festive spirit” at more than 500 lifestyle partners worldwide.Customers can use the QNB Explorer app to access selected discounts with premium local and international QNB First Lifestyle Partners in fashion, travel, health, restaurants, hotels, luxury retail, airport lounges, and much more, while enjoying the new features of the app.These “exclusive offers” reflect QNB’s keenness to provide its customers with a unique banking experience that combines technology and luxury to complement the status of its QNB First members with ultra-premium benefits tailored to refined lifestyles.More than 500 official lifestyle partners across more than 30 major cities around the world are available to cater QNB First members’ needs through the QNB Explorer app that sets a new standard for premium banking. 

Gildo Zegna, grandson of the eponymous fashion brand's founder Ermenegildo Zegna, will hand over the reins of the group to its finance director and the fourth generation of family leaders in January, the group announced Monday.But the Italian company's stock fell in opening trading in New York after the news that chief financial officer Gianluca Tagliabue would take over as chief executive from the 70-year-old Zegna, who has run the group for two decades.It is under Gildo Zegna's control that the company has taken on the Thom Browne and Tom Ford Fashion brands and in 2021 became the first Italian luxury group to be listed in New York.Gildo Zegna, whose grandfather set up the company in 1910, will remain as executive chairman and oversee the group's integrated textile production, which is considered one of its strong points.Zegna's sons, Edoardo and Angelo, will manage the male ready-to-wear Zegna brand, which in 2024 accounted for two-thirds of the group's revenue.After the group statement came out, Ermenegildo Zegna shares fell by nearly 1% in New York, where 24.6% of the group's stock is traded.The group's turnover fell two percent, against 2024, in the first nine months of the year to €1.33bn ($1.49bn).Zegna blamed the fall on lower sales in China and by its Thom Browne brand.It said at a presentation in October that it was counting on its established well-heeled clients, ready to spend more than 50,000 euros a year on clothes, to accelerate growth. It has set the target of almost doubling turnover to 2.2bn to €2.4bn by 2027.The group, which employed 7,400 workers at the end of 2024, is to open a new leather factory near the northern Italian city of Parma in 2026.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) Honorary Chair, attended the seventh annual FTA Prize Awards Ceremony held yesterday at the National Museum of Qatar. The event was hosted by FTA’s Co-Chairs HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and Tania Fares, who welcomed a number of world renowned fashion industry pioneers and young creatives. Her Highness awarded the prize to the first winner of the night Saudi designer Ziyad Albuainain for the Evening Wear category. Other winners for the 2025 FTA Awards include: Youssef Drissi from Morocco in the Ready-To-Wear category, Leila Roukni from Morocco in the Accessories category, while Egyptian designer Farah Radwan won the Jewelry category. The Debut Talent category was awarded to Alaa Alaradi from Bahrain and Fatema and Dalal Alkhaja also from Bahrain won the Fashion Tech category. The Guest Country Award, which this year was represented by India, was awarded to Kartik Kumra. Two globally renowned figures who have made a significant impact on the fashion industry were awarded honorary awards during the ceremony. The Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to Miuccia Prada in recognition of her decades-long legacy and influential contributions to shaping contemporary fashion. Meanwhile, the Trailblazer Award was presented to designer Zuhair Murad in celebration of his pioneering role in bringing Arab haute couture to the world stage and continuing to inspire generations of designers. Fashion Trust Arabia is the first initiative of its kind in the region, offering critical opportunities through funding grants and high-level professional mentorship to empower regional designers and prepare them to succeed on the global stage.

Doha Festival City released The Festival Edits: Qatar’s Retail Trends Report 2025, the first-of-its-kind, data-driven study providing insights into the evolving fashion, beauty, and retail landscape in Qatar, yesterday during a ceremony at Raffles Doha.**media[383896]**The report says that shopping remains the top reason for visits to Doha Festival City (46%), followed by dining (40%) and leisure/entertainment activities such as cinema, fitness, and events (30%). It also notes that among the Gen Z Qatari females, 40% prioritise makeup, followed by 25% fragrance, and 20% skincare as top beauty spends.The study revealed that Millennials and Gen Z are a significant part of the shopper base, drawn to streetwear, beauty, modest fashion, and jewellery. Younger visitors integrate malls into weekly life, visiting 1-2 times per week for around 2.7 hours, while Qatari nationals are particularly likely to engage in leisure activities such as cinema and events.The report also highlighted that AI in GCC retail is projected to grow from $5bn in 2023 to $31bn by 2028, with 97% of retailers increasing investment. Developed with research collaborators, cultural institutions, Ipsos data, and industry experts, the report blends quantitative survey data, qualitative analysis, and expert commentary to illuminate shifting consumer behaviour, market trends, and lifestyle priorities.The insights are from the Doha Festival City 2025 Consumer Survey, conducted both online with 2,010 responses and on-ground with 129 responses. Participants shared their shopping priorities, revealing how malls are increasingly becoming social, cultural, and community-focused spaces.Fashion trends include modest-meets-contemporary for 22% of Gen Z females, streetwear for 34% of shoppers, premium perfumery for 32%, and modest fashion for 28%. Among male shoppers, 32% prioritise high-end fragrances. Monthly fashion and beauty spend ranges from QR500-QR2,500 for the majority, reflecting a commitment to style as a lifestyle choice. Ambience, personalisation, and events outweigh convenience for half of shoppers, emphasising the experiential dimension of Doha Festival City.The report also highlights the future of retail in Qatar, including tech-driven innovations.“Malls have become venues for connection and curation as much as commerce. Festival Edits captures the spirit of this transformation, offering a credible, data-backed perspective on what defines style, innovation, and community in Qatar today – from perfume and makeup lovers to streetwear enthusiasts and esports audiences,” said, Mohamed ElSharkawy, associate director-Malls Leasing, Doha Festival City.There was also a panel fireside chat moderated by Areej Mohammed, and panellists including Hayssam Hajjar, executive director, Malls, Al-Futtaim Real Estate; Joseph Ibrahim, managing director, country management of Chalhoub Group; Bianca Brigitte Bonomi, director of Harper’s Bazaar Qatar, Esquire Qatar; and AlFtoon al-Janahi, content creator and entrepreneur.**media[383898]**The Festival Edits is informed by perspectives from leaders shaping Qatar’s fashion, beauty, and retail landscape. Featured voices include Sheikh Khalifa al-Thani (Intajat); Ahmed al-Meghessib (Qatar Esports Federation, Ukiyo); Bianca Brigitte Bonomi; Waad Ali (Waad Designs); Prakash Maroli (Ideas Unlimited); Stuart Henwood (New Balance); Michael Collins (Harvey Nichols Doha); Mariam Khairallah (MAC Cosmetics); Sara al-Rashid (Asteri Beauty); Atef Hassan (Jovoy Rare Perfumes); Erwin Creed (Creed); Michael Moles (Doha Festival City); AlFtoon al-Janahi; Shireen Obeidat (Earthna); Gills Manjulakshmi; Rumana Nazim (The Edit); Timothy Hufford (Elan Media); John P. Joseph (Blue Rhine Industries); and Dany Karam (Al-Futtaim Blue).

The Argentine Embassy in Doha recently hosted its third edition of ‘Art, Fashion, and Cultural Diplomacy Exhibition’, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange as a key theme driving the relationship between Qatar and Argentina. Speaking to reporters at the event, Argentine ambassador Guillermo L Nicolas underlined the exhibition’s role in setting the stage for the ‘Qatar-Argentina Year of Culture 2025’, which features numerous events in Doha and Buenos Aires. He said the event aims to connect the traditions of both nations, showcasing elements such as intangible cultural heritage and artworks, including paintings created by several diplomats and their wives. Nicolas cited the recent exhibition of Latin-American art at the National Museum of Qatar as a successful precursor, describing it as “the gem of our cultural year.” The exhibition, which concluded on July 19, featured around 170 works by more than 100 pioneering and contemporary Latin American artists, including iconic pieces from Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Wifredo Lam, Fernando Botero, and Antonio Berni. He said that cultural exploration uncovered unexpected common ground, leading them to realise they are “much closer than we believe” through shared aspects like traditional garments, a love for horses, and the importance of family. The envoy pointed out that cultural diplomacy is a main element not only for showcasing national identity but also for improving international relations. He said it serves as the essential foundation for international relations, asserting it is the primary method to foster mutual understanding and to create a network through which political and economic ties can be successfully developed. He noted that despite the vast geographical distance, cultural comparison reveals deep similarities. According to Nicolas, the year-long initiative of Qatar Museums is designed to solidify the bond forged during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which saw an influx of approximately 45,000 Argentinian visitors. “We have an amazing connection between the two peoples during the World Cup,” he recounted, adding that the cultural initiative is “a good opportunity to continue this relation.” The envoy said such initiative aligns with Qatar’s vision of becoming a global cultural hub, an effort he lauded, noting Qatar’s “wonderful position in the cultural world.” He suggested that sports should be viewed as part of cultural tradition, as the Year of Culture facilitates the exchange of artistic expressions, allowing Qatari art to be showcased in Argentina and Argentinian culture to be displayed in Doha. Nicolas added that he sees the 2025 initiative as “just one more milestone” in the already strong political, economic, and trade relationship between the two countries.

M7, Qatar's hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in design, fashion, and technology, has announced the launch of a specialized training programme in sustainability and strategic innovation. The programme, held in collaboration with the Swedish Fashion Council (SFC), will take place from Nov 2 to 5, at M7's headquarters.The initiative aims to empower designers and entrepreneurs in the fashion sector by enhancing their skills in sustainable practices, strategic planning, and brand development. It features hands-on workshops, case studies, and interactive sessions led by international experts.Participants will explore market trends, consumer behavior, and methods for integrating sustainability as a driver of creativity and competitiveness. Each day blends practical skill-building with strategic thinking in an immersive and highly interactive learning experience tailored to the realities of the fashion industry.Key topics include global fashion industry trends, Sweden's sustainability model, strategies for building sustainable brands, and international business frameworks.Applicants are required to have foundational experience in fashion, whether through academic study, internships, or professional work, and basic knowledge of sustainable fashion practices.The program welcomes participants currently leading or working with emerging brands, as well as ambitious individuals planning to launch their own labels, provided they demonstrate a strong interest in developing practical sustainability skills.This training is part of M7's specialised learning series designed to advance the creative community's capabilities in Qatar.It coincides with the "Nation of Evolution" campaign organized by the "Qatar Creates" initiative, celebrating 20 years since the founding of Qatar Museums and 50 years since the launch of the National Museum of Qatar. (QNA)

Qatar Reads, an initiative under the Qatar National Library (QNL), and M7 have launched the Fables in Fashion Art Exhibition 2025 to illustrate the book Maqamat Al-Hariri in diverse artistic formats. Held in Msheireb M7, Qatar’s epicentre for innovation and entrepreneurship in design, fashion and tech, the exhibition expands the life of literature to connect and inform community members about our past as a source of cultural and creative innovation. The exhibition, which runs until September 20, is part of “One Book, One Doha”, Qatar Reads' annual reading campaign that brings community members together in a shared reading experience. Each year a book from Arabic literature is selected, inviting everyone to read, reflect and engage through a variety of campaign activities. A total of 30 artists and fashion designers are participating in reviving the content of this Arabic literary masterpiece. The exhibition includes canvas works, installations and fashion designs that were produced by 13 Qatari artists and 17 international artists. Thirty-two artistic and creative works are on display, in addition to eight fashion pieces to celebrate the power of literature and timeless wisdom. In this art exhibition, artists and collaborators bring a fresh visual perspective that infuses the narrative with a creative spirit and artistic depth. This enriches the book's content and transforms it into a multi-dimensional experience. Through their original contributions, the artists reimagine the text, broadening its scope and adding new levels of meaning. The exhibition is not just a representation of the book, it celebrates the creative added value brought by each participating artist, turning the literary work into a vibrant space for dialogue where words and images come together in a harmony worth exploring. HE the Minister of State and QNL president Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari said: “It is a true honour to present this magnificent artistic experience that can enable the society to learn and discover new meanings.” “The art exhibition emphasises our role at the QNL – thus expanding our efforts beyond the bookshelves,” he said. “It builds on our heritage and literature to promote imagination and creativity, culturally and technologically.” “We always aim to present our history in new, engaging ways to help the new generations absorb wisdom and build on a solid foundation where they can find engaging topics in old books,” HE Dr al-Kawari added. “This exhibition encourages members of the community to engage with literature in different ways, which means leveraging the power of reading to cultivate a reading culture within the community.” “By merging literacy initiatives with art and fashion, the Fables in Fashion Art Exhibition 2025 demonstrates that reading is part of our future-oriented vision – fueling creativity, collaboration and cultural dialogue,” he concluded. “When we selected Maqamat Al-Hariri as Book of the Year, it was based on our conviction that its themes would resonate widely across all segments of the community,” said Qatar Reads manager Fatema al-Malki, said. “We are proud of this interactive experience, which highlights art and fashion as powerful tools to reinforce the role of literature in our society, fostering creativity, innovation and cultural enrichment.”

Hundreds of people formed a silent queue Saturday in the heart of Milan's fashion district to pay their respects to Giorgio Armani, Italy's most famous designer, who died this week at the age of 91. The passing of Armani has sparked an outpouring of grief with tributes flowing in from Hollywood celebrities and ordinary people alike. Over a career spanning five decades, he built a business empire spanning from haute couture to home furnishing, with his name becoming synonymous with sober elegance."Everything he did in his life he did it out of passion," said Pier Carlo Bertoglio, who travelled from nearby Lodi to the Armani headquarters, where the body will be lying in state over the weekend before a private funeral today."Everyone here today should testify to the love they have received from him." John Elkann, the scion of Italy's prominent Agnelli family, and his wife Lavinia, were among the first visitors to reach the Armani "theatre" — the vast exhibition space inside the Armani headquarters where catwalk shows are held and where the wooden coffin topped with an arrangement of white flowers has been laid.Elkann, who heads the Agnelli family's investment vehicle Exor, had previously discussed a potential combination with Armani to create an Italian luxury goods conglomerate, including Exor-owned sports car maker Ferrari. The talks led nowhere.Armani, who had no children, has put in place measures to ensure continuity and independence for his business, which he ran with trusted family members and a network of long-time colleagues.Early visitors also included Milan Mayor Giuseppe Sala. Milan, the city, where Armani relocated with his family after World War Two, will hold a day of public mourning today."Milan is full of Armani 'signs', it would be impossible to forget him," Sala said. "His biggest legacy to the city I reckon is his profound belief in work as a means of self-realisation."People waited patiently under the trees that line the cul-de-sac where the Armani offices, designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, sit across from the Armani/Silos, a museum opened in 2015 to mark 40 years of his career and where the Armani Prive haute couture collections of the past 20 years are currently on display."When I grew up in China, Armani's name is equal to Italian," said Jonah Liu, who stood in the crowd, sporting an Armani t-shirt and holding a small bunch of white daisies."He turned Italian elegance into a global fashion grammar ... I'm obliged to come here to pay my tribute to him." In line with Armani's wishes, a separate entry was reserved for group staff."I'm one of his employees, so I'm sincerely attached to him," said Alessandra Caccavo, wiping away the tears with her fingers behind her sunglasses."He made sure we never wanted for anything ... he was exceptional, so hospitable, ... we would always see him in the offices, which means a lot when you think who he was."

Designer Giorgio Armani, who helped to put Italy at the forefront of global fashion and dressed Hollywood stars, has died at the age of 91, the company that he founded and led for five decades said Thursday. Armani combined the flair of a designer with business acumen as he directed a company generating some €2.3bn ($2.7bn) in annual turnover.The designer had been unwell for some time and was forced to drop out of his group's shows at Milan's Men's Fashion Week in June, the first time he had missed one of his catwalk events.