The Palais Moulay Hafid took on an entirely new persona Friday night as the legendary British fashion house Vivienne Westwood made its Moroccan debut. With a dazzling and provocative runway show in Tangier, the brand officially launched the first edition of Tanger Fashion Week, setting the tone with a powerful visual statement under the stars.
Set against a backdrop steeped in history, the spirit of punk couture roared to life among the arches and columns of the palace. Vivienne Westwood’s signature silhouettes—offbeat bustiers, sculpted corsets, expertly twisted drapery, and rebellious tartans—transformed the venue into a bold and ephemeral stage for fashion with a purpose.
Opening the event, the British label brought its international prestige to a platform designed to elevate emerging voices from Morocco and beyond. The night continued with runway shows from young designers, each one channeling a distinct cultural identity and a deep sense of storytelling through their work.
Moroccan designer Mina Binebine captivated with a collection that married artisanal craftsmanship with contemporary design. Wafaa Idrissi explored Tangier’s essence in her all-blue line titled Vibes of Karma – en Bleu, offering a monochrome meditation on place and mood. From Kazakhstan, Sabina Volskaya presented intergenerational pieces that blended sentiment and style for both adults and children.
Tunisian label Koufia reimagined traditional garments with a poetic touch, while Moroccan jewelry brand Aya Jewels, founded by two sisters, transformed cultural heritage into sculptural accessories that bordered on wearable art. Veronica Pozzi, an Italian designer based in Marrakech, brought her unique fusion of Italian aesthetics and Moroccan craft to life on the runway.
Fashion schools added their own energy to the mix. The Nazareth-based Academia di Moda impressed with collections that struck a careful balance between formal precision and cultural identity. Meanwhile, the Casablanca Fashion Academy spotlighted a new Moroccan generation that is at once imaginative, inclusive, and forward-looking.
As each collection unfolded, the Palais Moulay Hafid emerged as more than just a venue—it became a living stage for innovation, where luxury met legacy and creativity knew no bounds. Vivienne Westwood’s opening show did more than lend star power; it underscored a shift in fashion’s narrative. No longer just about heritage, fashion here became a language of daring, transmission, and fresh perspectives.
