Lebanese designer Elie Saab is bringing the sparkle back to haute couture. Debuting his Fall/Winter 2013 collection at the chic Pavilion Cambon Capucines, Saab was quick to wow his audience with dresses that oozed sexy sophistication. The embellishments and intricate detailing alone were enough to assure Saab’s audience that the bank-breaking price tags are justified.

Ottoman Imperial Motifs Evident in Elie Saab’s Creations

Inspired by Ottoman motifs, Elie Saab wove a palatial web of glimmering decadence, using a colour palette of champagne, pink and sky blue to imitate the banks of the Bosphorus. Standing out in particular, his black gowns in tulle, lace and Georgette were the perfect opening to a glamour-filled showcase. The addition of black to his favoured go-to colours showed Saab’s affinity to evolve in the coming years. His stylist, Susan Tabak, had only positive reflections to make, saying that the “black was fantastic, this season he’s put in much thought.”

Using decorative shapes and soft pearls, many have described Elie Saab’s 2012 dresses as a fantasy collection. Split skirts, plunging necklines and sheer panels presented an interesting conflict between demure glamour and drama. The pinnacle of perfection, and the final demonstration of just how brilliant he truly is; the organza gown finished with gold brocade leaves can only be described as a bridal dream. 

Elie Takes the Crown for King of the Red Carpet

If Karl Lagerfeld is the king of haute couture then Elie Saab is the king of the red carpet. From Emma Watson to high profile actresses like Catherine Zeta Jones and Glamour’s fashion-forward Kristen Stewart, Saab has dressed them all. Most recently accredited with Emma Stone’s stylish ensemble at the 2012 Spiderman premiere, Saab proved yet again that he is the designer of choice for celebrities wanting to win that elusive “best-dressed” title. Stone’s plunging jumpsuit was perfectly finished with a bright orange waist-cinching belt, culminating in a fashion cocktail of sexiness, elegance and sparkle.   

Paris Fashion week was everything one would expect from designers like Elie Saab. Attracting some of the most high-profile attendees, Saab was even graced with newly-divorced actress Vanessa Paradis, as well as Aure Atika. Self-taught and absolutely fabulous, it’s easy to see Elie Saab’s passion that first manifested itself at a mere 9 years of age. To the women like Halle Berry who first gave profile to this highly talented man – Paris haute couture will be forever grateful. 

Bella Gray is a fashion blogger who has a weakness for men in business shirts. A lover of couture and all things related, Gray is the best go-to-gal for all your style trends and red carpet gossip.

Related articles

• Elie Saab Couture Fall 2012 (fabsugar.com)