ELIE SAAB – OPULENCE OF HERITAGE & CRAFTMANSHIP

Elie Saab’s 45th-anniversary celebration, “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab,” held in Riyadh, was an unforgettable event that merged the worlds of high fashion, art, and entertainment. The extravagant fashion show featured a seemingly endless red carpet, hosting a plethora of A-list celebrities that rivaled even the most exclusive Oscars after-parties.

The event showcased Elie Saab’s exquisite craftsmanship through a breathtaking display of 300 one-of-a-kind gowns, modeled by 90 stunning models, and styled by the legendary Carine Roitfeld. Choreographed by Spanish dancer Blanca Li, the fashion show was a seamless blend of haute couture creations and enchanting performances.

The “1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” event was a remarkable fusion of fashion, art, and entertainment, hosted by His Excellency Turki Bin Abdul Mohsen Al-Alshaik, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, and Elie Saab himself. This extravagant celebration, held during Riyadh Season, marked Saab’s 45th anniversary in the fashion industry and showcased over 300 stunning looks inspired by the legendary tales of One Thousand and One Nights.

With a star-studded guest list, including the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Celine Dion, Halle Berry, and many more, “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” was a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy and its ability to captivate audiences with its unmatched opulence and glamour. The event not only celebrated Saab’s 45 years of unparalleled success but also demonstrated the ever-growing influence of the fashion industry in the Middle East.

Indeed, Elie Saab’s 45th-anniversary celebration held a deeper significance beyond the glitz and glamour. As a designer who has made a career out of crafting fantasies, Saab acknowledged the challenging times his home country, Lebanon, has faced. In his own words, “This show is not just for fashion.”

By choosing to mark this milestone with a grand event, Saab demonstrated his commitment to perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. The celebration served as a poignant reminder of the power of art and creativity to transcend difficult circumstances, while also paying homage to the rich cultural heritage that has shaped Saab’s designs and inspired countless fashion enthusiasts around the world..

‘It’s a celebration of resilience and hope, a message to the world that we will always bounce back stronger’

Halle Berry’s captivating appearance as the opening act for Elie Saab’s 45th-anniversary celebration was a defining moment of the event. Her entrance in the iconic gown she wore to accept her Oscar for ‘Monster’s Ball’ was met with thunderous applause, and her presence embodied the essence of Saab’s designs: timeless, powerful, and mesmerizing.

Berry’s participation in the runway show not only highlighted her enduring relationship with the brand but also underscored the importance of Elie Saab’s creations in some of the most memorable moments in fashion and pop culture. Her appearance set the tone for an unforgettable evening, as the 900 guests, the likes of Adriana Lima, Eva Herzigova, Helena Christensen and many more, were treated to a spectacle of 90 models showcasing 300 exquisite looks, each a testament to Saab’s exceptional craftsmanship and artistic vision.

The Elie Saab 45th-anniversary celebration was truly a night to remember, with a star-studded lineup of performances that left the audience in awe. Jennifer Lopez dazzled in a fringed bodysuit, reminding everyone why she remains a true fashion icon. Camila Cabello captivated the crowd in a sequined bustier and thigh-high boots, showcasing her undeniable stage presence.

But the true highlight of the evening was Celine Dion, who took the stage in a breathtaking gold sequined gown. Her powerful performance of “The Power of Love” brought the crowd to their feet and cemented her status as the night’s true star. This memorable celebration not only honored Elie Saab’s 45 years of unparalleled success but also demonstrated the immense talent and glamour that continues to define the world of fashion and entertainment.

Elie Saab’s 45th-anniversary celebration served as a testament to his unwavering determination and pride as an ambassador for his home region. In a room filled with some of the world’s most recognized faces, Saab’s presence symbolized the resilience and creative spirit of a region that refuses to be defined by its hardships.

Through his designs and achievements, Saab has consistently showcased the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent that thrives in his homeland. His 45-year journey in the fashion industry is an inspiring reminder of the power of perseverance and the ability to create beauty, even in the face of adversity.

Elie Saab’s “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” event was a breathtaking celebration of the renowned designer’s 45-year journey in the world of couture. The spectacular fashion show, divided into four sections, showcased Saab’s meticulous attention to detail and his progression as a designer. Each collection conveyed a central theme, reflecting his personal experiences and creative vision.

The first segment focused on Saab’s childhood dreams, while nature played a significant role as a storytelling element throughout the show. The Mediterranean Sea served as the inspiration for the third collection, and the sun inspired the final collection, symbolizing Saab’s hopes for the future of his fashion house.

Elie Saab’s “1001 Seasons” event was a visual narrative of his life, influences, and aspirations, with each segment of the show thoughtfully crafted to represent different aspects of his journey.The first segment paid homage to Saab’s childhood dreams, showcasing designs that reflected the innocence and whimsy of youthful imagination. This personal touch allowed the audience to connect with the designer’s roots and understand the foundation of his creative vision.

Nature served as a recurring storytelling element throughout the show, with Saab skillfully weaving natural themes into his designs to evoke a sense of harmony and beauty. The Mediterranean Sea, an integral part of Saab’s Lebanese heritage, was the muse for the third collection. The captivating blues and fluid silhouettes captured the essence of the sea and its connection to the region’s culture.

The finale was marked by a surprise performance from Celine Dion, who descended a grand staircase wearing an Elie Saab gold embroidered cape gown while singing “The Power of Love.” The event was a beautiful fusion of Arabic heritage and contemporary designs, reflecting Saab’s unique ability to infuse timeless elegance with modern vision.

“The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” not only celebrated the designer’s remarkable journey but also cemented his status as a global luxury brand and a true visionary in the world of haute couture.

Elie Saab’s 45th-anniversary celebration, “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab,” was an extraordinary tribute to the designer’s unparalleled craftsmanship and fearless glamour. Under the direction of choreographer Blanca Li and stylist Carine Roitfeld, the event seamlessly showcased Saab’s iconic designs, both old and new, in a breathtaking spectacle.

Elie Saab’s 45th-anniversary celebration was a testament to his undeniable status as a living legend in the world of couture. His illustrious career, spanning 45 years, has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to timeless elegance and unapologetic glamour.

With each exquisite creation and unforgettable moment, Saab has not only left an indelible mark on the fashion industry but has also redefined the very essence of luxury fashion. As the final fireworks lit up the Riyadh sky, it was clear that Saab’s next chapter promises to be nothing short of monumental, leaving us all in eager anticipation of the continued evolution of his iconic legacy.

Elie Saab’s Lebanese heritage has played a significant role in shaping his unique design aesthetic, blending the essence of Arab culture with the world of haute couture. Born and raised in Beirut, Saab began sewing at a young age and started his eponymous fashion house at just 18 years old. Despite the challenges of civil war, his talent and determination propelled him to local and eventually international acclaim.

In his designs, Saab masterfully incorporates traditional Lebanese craftsmanship and opulent detailing, reflecting a rich tapestry of Middle Eastern design influences. His creations are known for their intricate embroidery, luxurious fabrics, and attention to detail, drawing inspiration from his cultural roots. By paying tribute to his heritage and infusing it with a contemporary vision, Elie Saab has not only revolutionized the fashion industry but also serves as an ambassador for Lebanese culture on the global stage.

The collection was a breathtaking reinterpretation of classic Arabian heritage through a modern lens, reflecting Saab’s unique storytelling abilities and globally recognized aesthetic. The event captured the essence of Arab culture, drawing from its rich history of creativity, intellect, and innovation. It signified a pivotal moment of hope, not only honoring Saab’s past achievements but also ushering in a new era of fashion and cultural fusion.