Note:
Dear readers, this is another fashion review about an international fashion designer, whom I have been following for about 10 years. In this collection, Elie Saab seems to break with his signature style of simplicity and refinement. Bold and sophisticated, are rather the looks of this Haute couture collection.
Let’s start.
With the opening of a new Boutique at Madison Avenue in NY, Elie Saab chose to draw his inspiration from New York city for this Fall winter 16/17 Haute couture collection. The opening looks had a direct reference to New York skyline and lit skyscrapers windows.
This stunning burnout velvet fabric is just mesmerising.
The dresses are feminine with the contrast of velvet and the transparency of tulle; flowy, light, but embellished at once. The feathers and birds ornamented the models.
Elie Saab, masterfully used several techniques, such as the 3-D bead embroidery, water colour silk impression, appliqué and draping, just to name few.
As far as the embellishment is concerned, we can notice bird broches with sequins, flocking bird sets in crystals and stones joined with feathers. Also, Some models wore statement necklaces. Most designs had waist belts in velvet or in leather.
It can be said that Saab was inspired by the 1920’s vintage style when designing the purses for this collection. The dominant Fabric in this collection is definitely velvet. It was present in several colours. Also he used wool crepe, silk organza, duchesse satin and lace.
Now, let’s talk about the dominant hues and silhouettes. This designer has already a long tradition of structured silhouettes; we just can’t fall under the spell of the asymmetric guipure basque, the deep V neckline with the split dress, the classy jumpsuit with a cape. The model shined in blue, black, plum and some nude dresses with contrasted bead work in silver and gold.
This is a close-up at the bead work in the shape of birds and flowers. It would have taken them days and days to finish those kind of embroideries.
For the first time, the Lebanese designer makes “mother and daughter” looks. The little models were just amazing. They captivated the eyes with their innocence and their little couture dresses. They almost had the same hair colour of the real models, which made them look like their real daughters. With the introduction of those designs, Elie Saab aims at expanding his clintele.
To be honest, this is not my favourite collection. I personally think that this collection, though it is highly technical in terms of embroidery, flattering silhouette and fabric blend, it does not directly refer to Saab’s renown style. It seems to be made to lure a wider style of ladies.I would think of far-eastern celebrities who crave for experimental fashion. Well, that is not an offense of course, It is rather a personal opinion based on observation. Thanks to their expertise, designers become very aware of the variety of styles and tastes of their clientele.
What do you think about this show?Would love to hear your opinions 🙂
You can see the full collection here .
P.s: I hope this review made you Experience the show and provided you with an insight about the coming trends. This is not the latest collection; already there is a ready to wear and resort line available. I will be hopefully making other reviews soon. Well, It is quite hard to keep with the pace of international fashion houses which produce 4 collections per season. Also, It was hard to choose which designs to include to illustrate the techniques and silhouettes.
Hope you enjoyed it 😉
See you soon 🙂
Yosra, Fashionably yours ❤.
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