13 Designers Take Center Stage on Day 1, Celebrating Global Creativity, Cultural Diversity, and Fashion Beyond Borders
ASTANA, KAZAKHSTAN | October 23, 2026 — World Designers Fashion Week 2026 officially opened its first day at the iconic Palace of Peace and Reconciliation in Astana, Kazakhstan, bringing together international designers, models, fashion industry leaders, and creative professionals for a spectacular celebration of global fashion and cultural exchange.
Taking place from October 23 to 26, 2026, the prestigious international event brings together designers representing 40 countries across five continents, reinforcing Kazakhstan’s growing position as an important destination for international fashion and creative collaboration.
Day 1: Thirteen Designers, One Global Runway
The opening day featured 13 designers and fashion labels representing diverse creative traditions and contemporary design perspectives. The runway showcased an exciting combination of international craftsmanship, cultural identity, and innovative fashion expressions.
The Day 1 featured designers included:
- Tursunkulov & My Suzane
- Evelin Fink — Hungary
- Imom Bridal — Uzbekistan
- Imane Belmkadem — Morocco
- Kenny Loh — Malaysia
- Fotia — Georgia
- Emily Sy — United Kingdom
- Mario Dice — Italy
- Fariza Dawken — China
- Nailya Burganova — Republic of Tatarstan
- Bayra — Kyrgyzstan
- Bench Bello — Philippines
- Shakerbay — Kazakhstan
Each designer brought a distinctive creative identity to the runway, demonstrating how fashion can transcend geographical boundaries while preserving the beauty of cultural heritage and individual artistic expression.
Philippines Takes the International Spotlight
Representing the Philippines, Bench Bello, fashion designer and founder and CEO of Manila International Fashion Week (MIFW), presented his collection on the international runway, highlighting Filipino creativity and contemporary fashion design.
His participation reflects the continued expansion of Philippine fashion into international markets and reinforces the importance of creating platforms where Filipino designers can connect with global audiences.
Another notable presentation came from Emily Sy, representing the United Kingdom, whose participation further highlighted the international diversity of the opening-day lineup.
The presence of Filipino fashion talent at World Designers Fashion Week underscores the importance of cross-border partnerships and the growing recognition of Asian creativity within the global fashion industry.
Celebrating the Creative Teams, Sponsors, and Partners
Behind the successful opening day was the collective effort of dedicated organizers, creative professionals, sponsors, and industry partners who contributed to the international fashion event.
Special recognition goes to Gaukhar Zhenisbek, CEO of the Creative Industries Foundation, for her leadership and contribution to the development of creative industries and international fashion collaboration.
The event also acknowledges The Fashion Code Kazakhstan for its involvement in the fashion community and support for the event.
The runway presentations were complemented by the artistry of the hair and makeup professionals from Atabayeva Makeup, whose creative work helped complete the designers’ runway visions.
Sensulu Cosmetics provided cosmetics for the event, supporting the beauty teams in creating polished runway looks.
Special appreciation also goes to Air Astana, the airline partner, for its contribution to international connectivity and support for the event.
Fashion as a Bridge Between Cultures
More than a runway event, World Designers Fashion Week 2026 represents a growing movement toward international cooperation, creative diplomacy, and cultural understanding through fashion.
With designers from Europe, Asia, and Africa sharing one international stage, the opening day demonstrated the power of fashion to unite different cultures, promote traditional craftsmanship, and encourage innovative design.
The event also creates opportunities for designers, fashion entrepreneurs, and creative professionals to establish meaningful partnerships, expand their networks, and introduce their work to new international audiences.
As World Designers Fashion Week continues until October 26, Astana remains a vibrant meeting point for the international fashion community, celebrating creativity, diversity, and the limitless possibilities of global collaboration.
WORLD DESIGNERS FASHION WEEK 2026 — CONNECTING CULTURES, CELEBRATING CREATIVITY, AND BRINGING THE WORLD TO ONE RUNWAY.
Official Acknowledgments
Creative Industry Leadership: Gaukhar Zhenisbek — CEO, Creative Industries Foundation
Fashion Industry Partner: The Fashion Code Kazakhstan
Hair and Makeup: Atabayeva Makeup
Cosmetics Provider: Sensulu Cosmetics
Airline Partner: Air Astana
