Dubai Fashion & Diamonds 2006 show to focus on exquisite exclusive haute couture and bridal collections

This year's theme, 'Asia - Celebration of Art' will feature the ornately beautiful haute couture and bridal collections by Yumi Katsura, Ashima-Leena Singh and Bonita Cheung, three of Asia's biggest haute-couture designers.

Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Manal Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Ladies Club, the event is organised by Wellmark UAE.

Mona Al Marri, Vice President of Dubai Ladies said: 'Creative industries are an important component of our society. Not only do they contribute to the country's economic prosperity, but also to the celebration of beauty that brings joy to everyone in the community.

'Her Highness Sheikha Manal strongly supports the Fashion and Diamond Show as it adds another dimension to the creative excellence and artistic endeavour of fashion designers in Dubai. An international event of this magnitude will further encourage the growth of the region's fashion industry.'

The landmark event will unveil sparkling diamonds created by internationally acclaimed designers from the jewellery capitals of the world. 'Le Cote d'Azure,' the world's largest sapphire at 397.095 carats will be displayed for royalty and select VIP guests at the event. The sapphire originated in Myanmar and is included in the Guinness Book of World Records. It has been brought to Dubai as part of the Frojo de St. Tropez collection.

Mario Arjan, General Manger, Wellmark UAE mentioned that launching this exclusive unique event in Dubai was a huge achievement for the company. 'We believe that inspiration is all around us, waiting to be noticed. Through this show, we aim to inspire you to create and admire all things beautiful. The Dubai Fashion and Diamonds Show will bring some of the most renowned names in the Asian fashion industry to Dubai, making it a memorable celebration of Asian designs.'

The star-studded event will honour the work of Katsura, one of Japan's and the world's most prolific designers, whose wedding dresses are considered modern masterpieces. Katsura will showcase the most expensive wedding dress to date, valued at one billion Japanese yen (US $8.5 million). Made from silk-satin and embellished with zari-embroidery handiwork, the dress is decorated with 1,000 pearls, a green 8.8 carat diamond emblem, and a 5 carat white gold diamond, one of the two existing in the world.

Dubai Fashion & Diamonds 2006 will also feature the collections of Ashima-Leena Singh, an authentic Indian label that has a unique, distinctive style and an original, traditional appeal. Specialising in bridal and hand embroidered designs; their product range of Indian ethnic wear includes a large variety of fabrics, drapes, silhouettes, and colours.

Representing Hong Kong, Bonita Cheung focuses on creating unique and timeless pieces of evening wear using classic French lace, fine Italian silks and the most intricate thread work and beadings. From discerning clients to celebrity and stars, Bonita's hand-made designs adorn some of the most stylish ladies from around Asia and beyond.

The first day of the exhibition is open to royalty and special VIP guests only. The second day of the show will be open to the public with live broadcast on Sama Dubai TV.

Dubai Ladies Club will roll out its own red carpet for a special viewing of the show at its premises on 25 November.