The beauty of the Moroccan caftan impressed audiences on Monday night in Paris during an exclusive fashion show held at UNESCO headquarters as part of the first Arab Week.
Designer Hind Lamtiri’s collection attracted an international audience with its chic, sophisticated style. Spectators were captivated by the Moroccan designer’s talent as her creations blended traditional elegance with modern flair, enchanting fashion lovers worldwide.
“This is a rich collection with a variety of embroidery styles, craftsmanship, and fabrics,” Lamtiri, a leading figure in Moroccan haute couture, said after her show.
Lamtiri expressed her pride in showcasing her work at UNESCO before a distinguished audience that included numerous diplomats, notably Morocco’s Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Samir Addahre.
“It’s an immense honor and goes beyond simply presenting clothing. This is a chance to share with the world a symbol deeply rooted in Moroccan history and culture—an art form that embodies the skill, patience, and creativity of Moroccan artisans,” she added.
The designer pointed out that the caftan represents “identity, tradition, and modernity” all at once. “Presenting it at UNESCO, an institution dedicated to cultural preservation, is a recognition of the Caftan’s universal value.”
She stated that “the fashion show is an opportunity to showcase a piece of Morocco’s soul—a living treasure that continues to unite and inspire generations.”
The first Arab Week, organized by UNESCO’s Arab Group with support from Saudi Arabia, celebrates Moroccan culture alongside a wide range of other Arab cultural elements, including heritage, music, cuisine, calligraphy, fashion, and art.
Lamtiri’s caftan show was a highlight of the opening day, concluding with a memorable concert of “Tarab Al-Ala” performed by the youth orchestra known as “Ambassadors of Moroccan Andalusian Music in France.”
Morocco’s participation in the celebration of Arab culture extends beyond the fashion show to include contributions to the conference sessions, featuring presentations on Moroccan calligraphy and artificial intelligence.
UNESCO’s Arab Week elevates the status of Arab culture within the organization, fosters new partnerships among Arab countries, UNESCO, and other member states, and promotes intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.