Elie Saab

Elie Saab leads the world as an iconic Lebanese designer who transforms elegance into works of art. During his interview at the Condé Nast International Luxury Conference Suzy Menkes extracted unique insights from Saab about his creative process while he discussed his Lebanese roots alongside the principles that drive his internationally recognised brand. Saab started in Beirut before becoming a red-carpet star while his dedication to authentic craftsmanship and feminine beauty continues to shape his designs. Elie Saab discusses how fashion has evolved while sharing his acceptance of change and his commitment to maintaining traditional roots alongside innovative practices. At the core of Saab’s vision is a powerful belief in celebrating femininity. He designs not to transform a woman, but to enhance her elegance and poise. “I like to show the woman as she is,” Saab told Menkes. “She is the queen of the dress.” This philosophy is evident in his detailed silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, ...

And for all his timeless elegance and intricate craftsmanship, Elie Saab, Lebanon’s legendary fashion designer, has always been a favourite. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Saab experienced the challenges and changes that were shaking the fashion world. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, he explains how this global crisis was a turning point for designers and consumers alike. The pandemic was a clear ‘before and after’ moment for the industry, said Saab. What it did was shift the focus from fast fashion to thoughtful design. Elie Saab adapted his vision to fit the trend of consumers valuing quality and meaning over quantity. According to his post-pandemic designs, which aim at longevity, emotional resonance and sustainability, he believes the future of fashion is about these three things. He also embraced digital innovation and used virtual platforms to connect with global audiences while maintaining the spirit of his couture artistry. Technology is a bridge, not a replacement,...

Lebanon’s most celebrated fashion designer, Elie Saab, has been instrumental in raising the Lebanese fashion industry to international prominence. In an interview with The Business Year, Saab looks back on the development of Lebanon’s fashion scene, how it has become a thriving place where creativity and craftsmanship are fostered.​ Saab stresses the importance of education and mentorship in developing new talent. Lebanese designers, he says, are becoming known worldwide, and he credits the country's rich cultural heritage and the strength of its people for that. Lebanese fashion has become a hallmark of the fusion of traditional techniques with modern aesthetics, and has made its mark on the world stage.​ The designer also talks about the difficulties the industry has to deal with, such as economic instability and lack of resources. But Saab is optimistic, saying that Lebanese designers’ determination and passion are key drivers of growth. With continued support and investment, he...

Elie Saab, the renowned Lebanese couturier, has created a global luxury brand based on his country's rich heritage and strength. Raised during Lebanon's civil war, Saab experienced early challenges that defined his commitment and love for design. He started his career making exquisite bridal dresses, and then gradually expanded his business globally.  Saab's designs are heavily inspired by the beauty of Lebanese women and the cosmopolitan vibe of 1970s Beirut. He combines the essence of Lebanon with Mediterranean flair, making pieces that embody femininity and classic beauty. His aim is to create dresses that give women confidence and can be treasured for generations.  A major highlight in Saab's career was his 1997 invitation to show in Rome, and then his admission to Paris's Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in 2003. These accomplishments placed him among the best in fashion, alongside the likes of Valentino and Armani.  Through determination and dedication to...

Elie Saab started his journey by establishing his first atelier in Beirut, yet progressed to become a global fashion leader who dresses both royal figures and Hollywood celebrities at red carpet events. The initial project of creating dresses for his sister developed into an enduring love that led him to dress both royal families and famous Hollywood stars, as well as influential figures from around the world. His dedication to luxurious fabrics and elegant embroidery, and feminine design elements led him to develop a global fashion style that people admired. Saab established his first workshop in 1982, and within the mid-1980s, international clients began showing interest in his designs. Since 2002, when Halle Berry wore his gown at the Oscars, Saab has expanded his couture fashion boundaries through his membership in the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture and his groundbreaking fashion moment. The legacy of Elie Saab now receives praise for both its glamorous designs and the authe...

Breathtaking gowns. Whispers of lace and florals. A fashion show at Paris Fashion Week presented a harmonious mix of strong elements and delicate features that attracted viewers once more. The event presented viewers with more than a typical fashion show because it showcased the changing essence of a worldwide fashion leader. Elie Saab presented his Spring/Summer 2016 collection through a backstage interview which showcased an elegant transformation of modern feminine style. Saab designs clothing for women who embrace their freedom through their style by combining elegance and sophistication with relaxed confidence. Through his dedication to details and freedom of design and his embrace of versatility he presented more versatile outfits with youthful shapes that modern women can wear today. Since his first design experience at nine years old the designer finds inspiration from the women in his life, whom he considers silent muses. Through his designs, Saab expresses his profound admira...

When it comes to elegance, exquisite style, and glamour in the fashion world, Elie Saab's name is at the top of the list. Every dress designed by him is unique and creates its own charm on every occasion. Whether it is Paris Fashion Week or any other fashion show, he leaves his imprint on it. After many successes, he was rewarded as the king of the red carpet. For a man who has dressed some of the most famous women in the world, Elie Saab seems surprisingly unsure about his appearance. At age nine, Elie Saab started making dresses, and at 17, he opened his first atelier during Lebanon's civil war. Through his hard work and creative skills, he rose from his basic start to become a famous fashion designer worldwide. Saab achieved international fame in 2002 when Halle Berry chose his design for the Oscars, becoming the first Lebanese designer to dress an Oscar winner. His acceptance into the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in 2003 followed after he gained worldwide fame fro...

The centre of Paris haute couture hosts a designer who transforms feminine elegance into timeless legacies through his creations. Elie Saab has established his fashion empire through his ateliers in Beirut and Paris, and Milan while focusing on handcrafted designs that create emotional connections with his customers. Elie Saab designs garments that transform into beautiful moments through his creations which he dresses on celebrities like Beyoncé and Priyanka Chopra and royalty including Queen Rania. Every design from his studio must showcase how the natural beauty of the woman shines through her clothing. His mission stays constant to make women glow through both bridal masterpieces and red-carpet gowns. Elie Saab Jr. works alongside his father to guide the house forward while preserving its modern and refined essence. The fashion house creates their collections through Parisian design principles and their devotion to Lebanese cultural heritage and their commitment to women worldwide...