Fashion X DFW is going global—for the first time ever.

East and West will come together on the catwalk in what looks to be the organization’s most culturally significant runway show on Oct. 13. The first-of-its-kind South Asian-influenced event will feature international headliners from Pakistan and India, harmoniously on display next to North Texas’s most prominent designers.

Fashion X—also housed annually in Houston and Austin—is in its fifth run, but this year’s re-imagined showcase (2017’s version was Fashion X Noir) will unveil an international experience. Dubbed Fashion X DFW :: South Asia, the black-tie affair will be elevated globally as organizers are flying in the designers from overseas to truly “marry” culture and fashion.

Founder of Fashion X Matt Swinney with his wife, Kara. [Photo: Courtesy of Fashion X]

“Dallas is so supportive of the fashion industry and we knew the market would be completely open to a new type of runway show.”
Matt Swinney

The founder of Fashion X, Matt Swinney, crafted the idea for tomorrow’s show after recently visiting Lahore, Pakistan. He thinks Dallas is a unique and multicultural city that can truly be an international mecca for fashion and is testing that theory by inviting major South Asian designers for an authentic event.

“Dallas is so supportive of the fashion industry, and we knew the market would be completely open to a new type of runway show,” Swinney said in a statement. “After visiting Pakistan and becoming incredibly inspired by South Asian culture, I know the Fashion X audience will be blown away by the intricate details of the garments, jaw-dropping textiles, and stellar craftsmanship of the South Asian fashion designers.”

[Image: Fashion X]

Varun Bahl—called the “Versace of India” and “one to watch”—is known for dressing prominent Indian celebrities, and will make his American debut at the show. The North Texas region will also be represented on the runway, with local designers displaying collections:

Ruby Bhandari: Founder of Dallas-based Silk Threads, which sells South Asian custom designs and ready-to-wear bridals, high-end party apparel, and menswear.
Valerie Garmino: A Western Designer based in Las Colinas, best known for being an expert in the tactile experience of fine clothing.
Quiana McDaniel: Founder of the House of Dasha in DeSoto, which features high-quality clothing for women who “dare to be different.”

The Fashion X Dallas 2018 show is tomorrow, Oct. 13 at Sixty Five Hundred,6500 Cedar Springs Road, Suite 200. The first show starts at 8 p.m., and the attire is formal. Ticket prices vary, and can be purchased online.