Fashion reflects the cultural diversity, creative capacity, and civilisational depth of societies. It is not merely clothing, but a cultural expression, a form of thought, and a harmony of colours and materials that create identity and independence. Fashion represents a balance that produces an artistic essence with cultural value and social meaning.
This industry has been known since ancient times, providing livelihoods for creative families across generations. Yet the openness of modern societies and the rise of technology have altered its trajectory, advancing innovation, shaping trends, and linking fashion to sustainable development goals. Today, fashion is recognised as a key sector connected to social, cultural, environmental and economic growth. It embodies lifestyles and aesthetics, while drawing from environmental resources for inspiration and raw materials. These connections generate the creativity at the heart of fashion, which not only drives economic prosperity but also defines its trends.
Recent years have witnessed remarkable transformations through rapid technological advances and rising environmental awareness, leading to the rise of “sustainable fashion.” This concept shifts focus from consumption to value, emphasising durability and renewal. Designers increasingly integrate sustainability into their work, reviving older styles with modern twists, reducing waste, and raising awareness. This direction was strongly evident in fashion weeks in New York, London, Milan, Paris, as well as Dubai and Riyadh, where blends of heritage and modernity were showcased.
The 2025 Fashion and Trends Report highlights instability in the sector due to changing consumer behaviour, fluctuating economies, and climate impacts. It calls for market expansion, stronger innovation, and attention to younger consumers, referred to as the “silver generation,” who represent a significant share of spending on fashion. The report stresses sustainability as both an attractive feature and a competitive edge, noting that classic styles, which can be easily adapted to shifting trends, are increasingly in demand.
Omani fashion, deeply rooted in tradition yet open to change, has also responded to these global shifts. Despite challenges in investment and business structures, Omani designers have proved resilient and creative. Private initiatives and female designers such as Samah al Wahaibi, Amal al Raisi, and Asma Hardan have launched programmes supporting young talents, nurturing both artistic and managerial skills to prepare them for professional ventures. Omani designers have also gained international exposure, most recently at the Palette of the Book Festival in Plyos, Russia, where they presented designs that embodied the richness of Omani culture. However, many initiatives remain fragile due to financial and logistical limitations, requiring stronger institutional frameworks for sustainability.
The state’s recognition of this field is reflected in higher education, with universities and colleges offering programmes that prepare young Omanis for the industry. This ensures that fashion is not confined to small projects or festival displays but is shaped into a competitive sector with lasting economic value. Governance, investment, and market expansion are essential to harness the potential of young designers and channel it towards international competitiveness.
According to Statista, Oman’s fashion market is expected to generate $1.31 billion in 2025, with an annual growth rate of 1.63 per cent between 2025 and 2029. Women’s fashion will dominate with revenues of $569.27 million, while Omani fashion specifically is projected to reach $274.29 million. Traditional attire, especially the kumma (embroidered cap), remains in high demand, reflecting identity and pride.
Yet the report reveals that 95 per cent of sales in Oman in 2025 are expected to come from non-luxury fashion, pointing to a largely consumerist market. This underscores the need for institutional strategies that move beyond consumption towards sustainable, distinctive design, and luxury fashion markets that foster quality and innovation. By empowering designers who have established their unique brands, Oman has the opportunity to position itself on the global stage with a fashion industry that unites heritage, creativity, and economic strength.
Translated by Badr al Dhafari
The original version of this article was published in Oman Arabic newspaper on August 24, 2025
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