From September 5-6, 2025, the serene yet dramatic backdrop of Mercedes-Benz Askja in Reykjavík transformed into a vibrant global runway for Iceland Fashion Week (IFW).
The event solidified the city’s growing reputation as a dynamic hub for innovation, celebrating emerging designers and fostering cultural unity in the often-overlooked corners of the fashion world.
While the fashion world traditionally fixates on the established runways of New York, Paris, Milan, and London, cities like Reykjavík, Los Angeles, Berlin, and Copenhagen are increasingly carving out their own niches, championing local talent and innovative design. Iceland Fashion Week, under the leadership of President Kolbrún Sara Aðalsteinsdóttir, exemplifies this shift.
“Iceland Fashion Week has always been about emerging talent, erasing boundaries and fulfilling dreams,” stated Aðalsteinsdóttir.
She added, “Every year, we invite a new group of designers to Iceland from across the planet, we hope to inspire others to see past individual differences and to focus on unifying through similarities. We hope to show everyone that dreams are possible of becoming a reality, if there is a will, there is a way.”
A highlight of IFW 2025 was the presence of Albanian American supermodel, Elton Ilirjani, who graced the event as the Guest of Honor. Known globally by his model’s name HANKO and recognized as a genderless advocate and fashion icon with over 12 million Instagram followers, Ilirjani emphasized the crucial role of platforms like IFW.
“I was honored to be the Guest of Honor at Iceland Fashion Week in 2025,” Ilirjani remarked. “Up and coming fashion weeks like Icelandic Fashion Week are important. It’s a chance to discover new designers.” He added that he had the opportunity to collaborate with both Icelandic and international designers.
The two-day event showcased a diverse array of talent, featuring designers such as Alexander Kirchner, Reykjavik Raincoats, Coppermine, Icewear, Kolski, Arabesque Boudoir Maison, Carmichael Byheld, Grace Achieng, Earth Major, Victoria Emerson, and Georgia Chioni. DJ Paradisa set the mood for the dynamic runway shows and events.
Ilirjani himself made notable appearances on the runway, walking for esteemed Icelandic brands like ICEWEAR and enchanting international labels such as Arabesque Boudoir Maison. Created by Maya Mosteghanemi in 2023 and based in New York, Arabesque Boudoir Maison presented a collection that beautifully fuses the cultural aesthetics of the Renaissance era and the Ottoman Empire.
The brand’s pieces are distinguished by a rich array of fabrics, including German velvet, delicate lace, and shimmering gold and silver silk threads, all adorned with intricate hand-made embroidery. “With Arabesque Boudoir, Maya is trying to bring the Ottoman Empire style into more modern and genderless vibes and colors,” Elton explained, noting the couture focus where he had the honor of opening and closing the show.
Reflecting on the experience, Ilirjani described the Arabesque Boudoir show as “a very boutique show, the audience went wild. It was a luxury event.” He recalled a dramatic couture walk, turning to display the entire outfit, captured by photographer Arun Nevader. “It was a success. I was so honored. They loved me, I inspired all the models and designers. I am famous now in Iceland,” he declared, reflecting on the warm reception.
Iceland Fashion Week 2025 proved more than just a series of runway shows; it was a powerful statement on the evolving landscape of global fashion. By championing diversity, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration, Reykjavík has firmly established itself as a vital voice in the industry, where raw Nordic nature inspires cutting-edge design and dreams truly take flight.
Photo by Arun Nevader
