Couture houses in Beirut have become an integral part of Paris Haute Couture Week, even though only four of them feature on the official calender of the FCHM (Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode). Take a seat in the first row and watch seven glamorous shows that took place in the French capital in January 2023. Discover which Lebanese couture exudes magic in Paris.
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ZUHAIR MURAD CELEBRATES THE ROARING TWENTIES AND THE BELLE EPOQUE
He designed Sofia Vergara’s wedding dress and numerous glamorous costumes for Jennifer Lopez’ tours. Zuhair Murad, who creates spectacular couture with a modern touch, showcased his latest collection at the former nobility residence Potocki in Paris.
The couturier took inspiration from the Roaring Twenties and architectural details from the Belle Époque. He imagined a new generation of heiresses who breathe life back into their family heritage in the Belle Époque chateaus of the French Riviera. Silk whispers in caddy, tulle, chiffon, taffeta, satin, jersey or chiffon. The palette, often shaded, marries the fires of the setting sun on the sea. Soft pink, bright pink, flame orange, pale green, Caribbean blue, fading yellow, where drapery and precious embroidery dominate. Jewels handed down through generations, priceless stones, and Hollywood brooches come out of the coffers, underlining the suppleness of a sheath, the modeling of a bust.
ELIE SAAB PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE KINGDOM OF THAILAND
Elie Saab, the most famous Lebanese couturier, showcased a very elaborate and opulent collection, Golden Dawn. The majestic pieces reflect natural scenes and rituals of the kingdom of Thailand, where rich cultures of gilded splendor inspired the imagination of the couturier.
Shimmering rhinestones and crystals weave into the delicate metallic tresses of whispy capes and sumptuous large coats. Legendary naga dragons whirl over asymmetrical bodices and plunging sweetheart necklines, creating lavish silk crêpe winds and wild peplum waves of ivory and pearl. Sacred koi fish swim through mermaid tails and ornate scalloped overskirts to join the dawn.
THE VOYAGE OF A STAR
The Tony Ward Couture Spring/Summer 2023 fashion show took place in the salle Orbe New York, at Palais de Tokyo in Paris, an architectural landmark dedicated
to contemporary art. The Stardust show was an homage to couturier Elie Ward, Tony’s father, who passed away in autumn. The voyage of a star.
Infinite twinkles appeared on a dress, in our imagination, meteorite grain, believed to be the origin of the universe. Gold and silver foil, molded into twinkling beaded stardust, silver galactic cascades, flashes of comets appliqué, organza pleated into sculptural clouds. Nuances of gold and silver embroidered stars on a majestic wedding gown to closed the show.
FLORA BY ZIAD NAKAD – COUTURE SPRING/SUMMER 2023
GEORGES CHAKRA COUTURE SPRING/SUMMER 2024
INTERVIEW WITH ELIE SAAB
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