Dress, Elie Saab; gloves, earrings, Ashi Studio. Photographed by Luigi and Iango for Vogue Arabia November 2021
For Penélope Cruz, Vogue Arabia’s November 2021 issue not only marks her first time fronting the Middle Eastern magazine but also her debut in creations by iconic Arab designers. Ahead of visiting Dubai for the Chanel Cruise show, the actor—who also has a long-standing relationship with Chanel as its house ambassador—took over the pages of the magazine in a series of striking Chanel ensembles, but also paid homage to the region in her own special way by donning two Middle Eastern labels. In the bigger picture, having the Oscar-winner championing local talent also forms part of Vogue Arabia’s ongoing #BuyArabDesigners campaign, which supports emerging and established artists close to home.
For our November 2021 cover spread, Cruz was shot in the far-flung destination of Madrid—which also happens to be her home—by photography duo Luigi and Iango. Tying her shoot to the Arab world sartorially were stunning pieces by couturiers Elie Saab and Ashi Studio. Over the decades, Beirut-based Saab and Saudi-born Ashi have adorned many a star, with Cruz now joining the gilded list.
Dress, gloves, Ashi Studio. Photographed by Luigi and Iango for Vogue Arabia November 2021
Out of the many looks handpicked by stylist Amine Jreissati, the Parallel Mothers actor was featured on our pages wearing two different ensembles by the Middle Eastern designers. The first, a poncho-style dress with party season-appropriate beaded fringes from Elie Saab’s Cruise 2022 collection. This particular look was complemented with elbow-length gloves by Ashi Studio, as well as earrings from the latter’s recently launched jewelry collection. The second—and arguably boldest look from the spread—was also by Beirut-based Ashi Studio: a long ebony dress featuring a fully beaded bustier with silk organza fringes.
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Style: Amine Jreissati
Hair: Luigi
Makeup: Pablo Iglesias
Nails: Lucero Hurtado
Photography assistants: Daniel Gallar Candela, Luca, Jessica Rodriguez Ligero
Hair assistant: Stephane Beaver
Style assistant: Esther Fiol
Digital tech: David Garcia
Creative production: Laura Prior
Production: Alana Production
