Elie Saab SS20 Haute Couture Collection. Photo: Courtesy of Elie Saab
The king of maximalism, Lebanese couturier Elie Saab, didn’t hold back with a collection that celebrated all-out opulence. Pre-show, a lengthy press note referenced Mexico and its many cultural motifs and described the Elie Saab heroin as “both daring and charming, bold and graceful, yet always refined.”
A visual overload developed, with imperial embroidery, domed sleeves, shoulder pads, and masterful silhouettes, delicately embroidered and accessorized with shoulder-grazing earrings. The palette was gloriously gold, with ivory, blush pink, turquoise, lime green and powder blue appearing as visual ‘cleansers’ on elegant creations spliced to the thigh, belted or embellished with oversized bows and ruffles.
Sensuality and ostentation is an Elie Saab staple and it was evident here with an endless procession of beautifully sculpted gowns and bridalwear, garnished in swirling embroideries, florals, and pearls. The excess extended to the accessories with Cinderella-worthy gold pumps and oversized sunglasses decorated with crystals – a must for the Middle Eastern woman.
Lavish, empowering and statement-making in the best way, Saab has reminded us of the sheer joy of unrestrained haute couture.
Read Next: Georges Chakra Delivered an Uplifting Collection of House Signatures This Haute Couture Season
