Byzantine opulence and splendour worthy of a sultan’s harem greeted guests at Elie Saab’s fashion show on Wednesday, as the Lebanese designer beloved of the Hollywood set presented a fantasy collection spun from embroidered tulle and lace.
Saab, who is known for his red carpet creations, said he was inspired by Constantinople for his autumn/winter 2012-2013 Haute Couture collection, and indeed the gold, shimmer and sparkle overflowed in the pillared Paris reception hall on the Rue Cambon.
Despite a debut in black, Saab opted for warmer hues of champagne, taupe, rose, sky blue and jade for most of the collection, with a special emphasis on shimmering gold. With high necklines and elaborate embroidered bodices, many gowns recalled the finery of an Edwardian era predisposed to hedonism and a fantasy-inspired vision of the Orient.
