Ipoh Fashion Week 2023 is redefining fashion as a force for positive change.
The annual International Ipoh Fashion Week (IIFW) which debuted in 2017 is back for season 5 in Ipoh, Perak this December 1-3, with each day happening at a different location.
Adeline Khan, the co-founder of Ipoh Fashion Week, stated during the press conference on Oct 18 at Avante Hotel, Petaling Jaya: “IIFW is a platform where cultures collide, traditions blend and artistry flourishes, and we are excited and ready to bring you the most awe-inspiring collections to celebrate the diversity and creativity of the fashion world.”
More than 10 designers and brands from around the globe, including Indonesia, Singapore, Nepal, China and Malaysia as well as 77 local and international models who will grace the runway as the showstopper.
Some of the top brands and designers participating in IIFW 2023 include Farel Mikhail x Precious of Malaysia, UITM, Kolej Komuniti Batu Gajah, Khair Johari, Rohacraft, Dream Wear Fashion, Rette Tianita, Sha-Nad Studio, Puan Asperkraf, House of Zahira, Luck 7 and FM@Enne
Khan said one aspect of IIFW is their commitment to nurturing and promoting emerging talents.
“The ‘New Faces’ segment of the event introduces fresh designers and models to the fashion scene, providing them with a platform to showcase their creativity and innovation. It’s a reminder that the fashion industry is ever-evolving and thrives on new voices and perspective,” she said.
The three-day fashion event features runway shows, a carnival and a black-tie red carpet royal charity gala dinner.
The opening Red Carpet Royal Fashion with A Heart Charity Gala Dinner will be graced by Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Zara Salim and feature a special performance by iconic legend DJ Dave.
IIFW founder Louis Sebastian said that apart from the fashion show, IIFW is committed to making a positive change in the community.
“What sets IIFW apart is its unique blend of high fashion and social responsibility by making a meaningful impact on society.
“The Gala serves as a platform to generate funds for critically needed medical facilities, offering hope and support to children and their families facing medical challenges,” he said.
Last year the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital, Ipoh received RM104,000 worth of medical equipment purchased from funds raised through the Red Carpet Charity Gala Dinner.
The beneficiaries for this year’s Gala are the Paediatric High Dependency Unit (PHDU) of Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun in Ipoh, Perak and Hospital Seri Manjung located in Seri Manjung, Lumut, Perak. Medical equipment will be purchased based on the amount raised through table sales and donations.
Here’s a breakdown of the IIFW 2023 runway shows schedule:
Day 1- Dec 1, 2023, Fri 7.30pm – 11pm
Ipoh Fashion Week will host its Royal Fashion with a Heart Charity Gala Dinner at Jubilee Ballroom, Royal Perak Golf Club. The gala evening comprised an 8-course dinner, runway fashion show and entertainment. It will be graced by the Raja Permaisuri of Perak Tuanku Zara Salim and other members of the Perak royal families, as well as ambassadors, celebrities and invited guests.
Day 2 – Dec 2, 2023, Sat 9.30am – 12.00noon (Open to public)
The runway show takes place literally on the streets of Ipoh, allowing the public to be part of the celebration of fashion week. The Street Fashion Runway is at iconic Ipoh Old Town where the heritage street will be transformed into a runway for over 10 fashion designers, both local and international to showcase their couture collections. It will be a stunning visual feast with the models doing their catwalk down memory lane flanked by the majestic pre-colonial shop houses and heritage buildings.
Day 3 – Dec 3, 2023, Sun 9.30am – 9.30pm (Open to public)
Ipoh Fashion Week will conclude with a fashion showcase at Lumut Naval Town Waterfront Maritime. Carnival activities include sunset ceremony, brass band, silat performance and illuminated naval sailing ship. There will be a performance by singer Ayu Damit.
