It requires no stretch of the imagination. Elie Saab, the Arab fashion world’s poster child, is far and away a genius of design, outlining a woman’s body in perfect curves, exotic lines and neatly covering it up in opulent yet comfortable fabrics. More so, unlike many designers of his calibre, and even though he has a prêt-a-porter line, he succeeds in making haute couture intensely wearable. You could almost slip the dress off the emaciated runway model and don it yourself right then and there. And here’s the other aspect to Saab’s extraordinary sense of place. His designs, from free-flowing full-length creations to curve-enhancing compilations, look best on women who, well, look and think like real women.
Saab’s Haute Couture Autumn/Winter 2007-2008 collection sparkles – quite literally – with sensuality and feminine prowess. Most of the creations are in grey, silver and black. “I am a simple person who likes elegant and beautiful things. The woman who wears my dresses is very glamorous, classy, sensual and courageous enough to flaunt her femininity through bold designs,” says Saab. Though some of the themes are repetitious, you can’t escape from the sheer pleasure in viewing (and if you’re lucky, wearing) the glitzy dresses. Particular breath-takers are the printed organza baby doll short dress with an irresistible V-neck and a pearl-grey muslin long dress studded with sequins and Swarovski crystals.
But, quite predictably, most astounding accomplishments are found in the bridal wear. This year’s dramatic mermaid wedding dress is made from pearl, sequins and Swarovski embroidered tulle with an impressive seven-metre train. It would make any girl want to marry, either for the first time, or better yet want to renew her vows.
HYPERLINK "http://www.eliesaab.com" www.eliesaab.com
