On Tuesday, the CFDA joined Oushq founders Jessel Taank and Akbar Hamid co-hosted an evening in celebration of Diwali—the Festival of Light—and their new partnership, highlighting a shared commitment to culture, community, and creativity.

The event marked the relaunch of Oushq’s multi-brand e-commerce platform and our exciting new initiative to connect Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern designers with U.S. talent. Guests gathered at Obvio in NoMad, with many female guests stunning in traditional Indian attire and sweeping, colorful gowns that reflected the festive spirit.

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to meaningful representation. South Asia and the Middle East have long shaped fashion through centuries of craftsmanship—from handwoven textiles and fine embroidery to boundary-pushing contemporary design. This collaboration seeks to spotlight those regions’ artistry and their global influence on design. As CFDA CEO Steven Kolb noted, “Diwali is about light triumphing over darkness—and tonight, that light takes the form of creativity, community, and collaboration.”

Through this initiative, designers from across cultures will unite under a shared vision—one that invites each to interpret heritage and craft through their own creative lens.