Elie Saab: Embracing Childhood Dreams in Couture
Renowned couturier Elie Saab recently unveiled a stunning haute couture collection that took inspiration from his childhood dreams of entering the world of fashion. Due to the lockdown restrictions in Lebanon, the release of the collection was postponed, resulting in a breathtaking compilation of 60 looks. Saab, who is based in Beirut, typically showcases his collections during the Paris haute couture season, which unfolded last month in the fashion capital of France.
The latest collection from Elie Saab was nothing short of a spectacle, filled with fantastical elements like birds with elaborate plumage adorning crinolines, billowing clouds of chiffon, and clusters of marabou feathers, creating a truly theatrical experience on the runway.
Reflecting on his creative process, Saab shared, “I started by reminiscing about my childhood days, spending hours at the window dreaming of beauty and elegance.” Despite staying busy with new commercial ventures such as licensing deals for watches, perfumes, and beauty products, the designer felt compelled to create a collection that embraced exaggerated volumes and ethereal aesthetics, a departure from his usual style.
The color palette of the collection stayed true to Saab’s signature style, featuring soft pastel hues of white, blue, pink, and a touch of black, culminating in opulent gowns adorned with pearls, crystals, and extravagant feather accents fit for modern-day grand dames.
Navigating the challenges posed by the lockdown in Beirut, Saab recounted the unconventional process of shooting the collection in a local theater. While the designer expressed a longing for the traditional fashion weeks in Paris, he acknowledged the limitations imposed by travel restrictions this year. Moving forward, he plans to unveil a fashion video for his upcoming slot in the Paris ready-to-wear season in March.
In addition to his couture creations, Elie Saab also shared his excitement about new partnerships in the form of a watch deal with Blackbox and a perfume license with Brands Beyond Beauty. With aspirations to expand his reach in the beauty and fragrance market, the designer aims to transition from a niche to a mass-market audience, broadening his brand’s appeal.
Despite facing challenges like the aftermath of the devastating Beirut port explosion last year, Saab’s latest haute couture collection stands as a testament to his resilience, creativity, and unwavering ambition in the world of high fashion.
For more insights into Elie Saab’s fashion world and latest collections, visit his official website here. Additionally, explore his range of fragrances and beauty products on Brands Beyond Beauty’s website here.
