For his Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 collection, Lebanese designer Elie Saab conjured the bygone glamour of the golden age of Egyptian cinema, with the designer citing actress Faten Hamama — in a party scene from film “I Don’t Sleep,” starring opposite Omar Sharif — among inspirations.
The more elaborate gowns in his sparkling, red carpet-oriented collection included a sheer tulle gown with hazy pale blue and silver placement embroidery evoking boats on the river Nile and palm trees, with the silvery fronds of one tree peeking over the sweetheart neckline. Other highlights included a long-sleeved gown in tan satin peppered with deep blue “evil eye” motifs.
Oriental gold embroideries and geometric crystal formations — presented as a surprise feature on the back of a cape, say — were a nice update on the designer’s signature embellishments. Mini crystal tassels and draped chains of gold beads on the bibs of dresses added movement.
With their headbands, diamond earrings and shades, the models also channeled a Fifties, Old Hollywood vibe, nodding to the glamour of Elizabeth Taylor — she of “Cleopatra” fame. This was especially the case with the opening dresses with deep décolletés and sculpted folds crossing at the front. Their baby blue shade also evoking Jackie Kennedy — or a more recent adopter of retro glamour, such as America’s First Lady Melania Trump.
