Vilebrequin

Following the success of its first collaboration in Abu Dhabi, swimwear brand Vilebrequin embarked on a new chapter with The Waters of Abu Dhabi Limited Edition. Designed for men, women and children, the collection draws inspiration from the emirate’s marine life and natural heritage, from turtles and pearls to its mangroves.

Building on the first edition, the project set out to reach new international audiences while showcasing Abu Dhabi through the lens of fashion and its natural environment. YKONE supported the collaboration from strategy to international activation, bringing together its teams in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and China across brand collaboration strategy, campaign production, events and influencer engagement.

Drawing on the region’s marine ecosystems, from the protected shores of Saadiyat Island to the richness of its underwater world, the capsule translates the movement and light of the sea into vibrant prints and contemporary silhouettes. Available in selected Vilebrequin boutiques and on the brand’s website, it offers an expression of Abu Dhabi’s natural heritage to an international audience.

The project also explored the relationship between fashion and nature through Save The Tides, an initiative inviting university students across Abu Dhabi to imagine how fashion could contribute to a more sustainable future. Isley Bayar, a student at New York University Abu Dhabi, was selected through the programme, with his winning design incorporated into the limited edition. Building on these creative inspirations, YKONE led the production of the campaign assets and content.

To introduce the capsule to the international stage, YKONE produced an immersive launch event as part of Shanghai Fashion Week. Bringing together influencers, business partners, socialites and journalists, the evening offered guests an opportunity to discover the collection and the story behind it, from the Save The Tides initiative to Isley Bayar’s winning design. The activation extended beyond the event, with over 30 local KOLs engaged to share the collection with their audiences, alongside celebrity Stephy Qi.

From its creative concept to its international rollout, the project brought together fashion, local creativity and Abu Dhabi’s natural heritage. The next chapter will unfold through a global influencer activation in the emirate, further introducing the collection to audiences around the world.

Artistic Direction & Creative Guidelines, Influencer Booking & Casting, Event Production, Content Production, Strategy Consultancy & Auditing