Photo: Courtesy Elie Saab
One of the most-loved names in the fashion world today, Lebanese couturier Elie Saab is the true gold standard of red carpet dressing. And recently, the fashion house celebrated a new milestone: the opening of its flagship boutique in Abu Dhabi.
Located in Abu Dhabi’s most luxurious lifestyle and shopping spot, The Galleria Mall on Al Maryah Island, the brand new space extends across 300 sqm, and boasts soothing interiors that echo the understated glamour that immediately comes to mind when one hears the name ‘Elie Saab’. Think sparkling onyx tiles, warm lighting, mindfully placed hints of oak and metallic tones, and subtle mirror sliding doors with tasteful brass monogram detailing. The boutique offers guests a range of collections—from ready-to-wear and accessories, to fragrances and kidswear—and also includes an exclusive salon for bridal and couture collections, where customers can enjoy shopping in privacy.
To celebrate the big moment with the brand, Vogue Arabia connected with the man of the moment, Mr Elie Saab himself, to discuss his legacy, and his plans for the future.
Photo: Courtesy Elie Saab
Congratulations on the brand new Abu Dhabi home of Elie Saab. How does it feel to open this new space?
Abu Dhabi is close to my heart and I’m so happy with the opening of the new store. As it is the second boutique in the UAE, it is part of our strategic development to expand in the region. We have a big and special relationship with the clientele in the region, so we wanted to have a more personalized shopping experience that meets the needs of our loyal customers.
What are you most proud about when you look at the flagship boutique in Abu Dhabi?
When you enter the store, you feel the whole experience of the ES universe. It includes and gathers all the different lines of the brand. It has the haute couture and bridal area as well. It is also one of the first boutiques to be furnished by ES Maison lines.
From your home in Beirut to London, New York, Paris and Dubai, every Elie Saab boutique is a dream to visit. What is one thing you’d say all your boutiques have in common?
The common in all of the boutiques is the experience of the ES universe. When you enter all boutiques, you feel the relation between the brand and the consumer.
Photo: Courtesy Elie Saab
The name Elie Saab is synonymous with elegance and grace around the world. How do your Arab roots influence your collections?
Today, the success and visibility of Elie Saab goes beyond the region. My collections are not only inspired by my Arab roots, but they are influenced by the themes, trends, and everything that is happening around the world. My Arab roots are translated into the colors, fabrics, and lights in the collections.
What can we expect from your upcoming collections?
Each season, we work on new shapes and silhouettes to reach new clients. I start from a theme and work around it.
Who, according to you, is the quintessential Elie Saab woman?
The Elie Saab woman is elegant, independent and has a strong personality. I like women with character.
Photo: Courtesy Elie Saab
Your creations have been worn by some of the most influential women across the globe. Is there anyone who you haven’t dressed yet, but would love to someday?
Through the years, I had the chance to dress a lot of women, from actresses, to royalty and influential VIPs. I feel grateful that so many women love my designs and are loyal to the brand. There is no one specific person that I would like to dress, I am delighted to dress any woman who carries my values and loves Elie Saab.
What are three things every woman should keep in mind while getting ready for a special occasion?
The most important thing is that the woman should stay true to herself. She should be natural, without any exaggeration. The key is to resemble herself and her character.
Photo: Courtesy Elie Saab
