Awkwafina at the premiere of Crazy Rich Asians. Getty
One week, two different gowns we’ve developed a serious style crush on. The last seven days have seen a slew of red-carpet premieres, as cinemas around the world ride the summer movie craze. And, at two high-profile bashes these week, two Arab labels both scored places on many a best-dressed list thanks to their ethereal creations.
On August 7, Ocean’s 8 star Awkwafina stepped out to launch Crazy Rich Asians in Los Angeles. For the much anticipated release, which is the first Hollywood release in 25 years to feature Asian-American leads, the actor turned to Lebanese designer Reem Acra for a suitably statement gown. And the Beirut-based certainly stepped up to the occasion, with a blush-pink ballgown that fused together the best of modern-day detailing with a nostalgic, retro-inspired silhouette.
The long-sleeved gown, which featured a fitted bodice, voluminous, romantic skirt and oversized red bow on the back, came from the label’s Pre-Fall 2018 collection, Acra revealed on Instagram. The 29-year-old actor and rapper, born Nora Lum, teamed the design with David Webb jewels, a Jimmy Choo clutch, Giuseppe Zanotti heels, and soft waves for a perfectly polished finish. This isn’t the first time Awkwafina has donned the label either, sporting a white, silk jumpsuit from Reem Acra for the New York premiere of Ocean’s 8 this summer.
Li Bingbing at the premiere of The Meg. Getty
Just one night earlier, another Lebanese label had a Hollywood outing at the LA premiere of much-hyped prehistoric shark thriller movie, The Meg. Chinese actor Li Bingbing dazzled in a slinky, neutral-hued sheath by couturier Georges Hobeika, which featured a bejeweled neckline and waist. With a mesh-lined, cut-out back, the fishtailed creation was imbued with a classic glamour, which the 45-year-old star amped up with a diamond watch, ring, and earrings.
Both designs stood out among a sea of gowns thanks to their minimalistic, refined lines, and soft, pastel-tinged palettes. Indeed, if this is anything to go by, could we see a switch to more romantic, ethereal hues this awards season, after a previous focus on black (admittedly, for a very good cause, thanks to the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements)? We’ll be watching the red carpets eagerly.
Now Read: This Crystal-Encrusted Gown Took More Than 750 Hours to Create
