PARIS, Oct 9, 2006/ FW/ --- Bright, golden and optimistic, the Elie Saab catwalk show was a beautiful homage to his beloved Lebanon as the designer sent sumptuous gowns, cocktail dresses and jackets in ‘glistening silhouettes infused with gold.’

As Elie Saab said in his press notes, ‘the collection took form in his Parisian studio, far from the daily reality of the war in Lebanon, wherein the designer’s recent return to his home country changed everything: there would be no colors.’

And that was when he decided that his Spring 2007 collection would not be about bereavement. So, departing from the norm of haute couture houses, wherein the ready-to-wear collection is usually a continuation and/or derivative of its haute couture pieces, Elie Saab chose the strength, vitality and warmth of his people as his inspiration.

Together with the golden rays of the Beirut sun, Elie Saab sent a buoyant collection full of hope and aspirations, thus giving a positive view of the future.

As a result, it was very different from the haute couture collection shown that was mysterious and dark, with touches of gothic. The collection also went against the trend of black & white, the two non-colors that had dominated the catwalks from New York, London, Milan and Paris.

Yet, Elie Saab was very directional, from the opening look of a layered mini dress with an empire waist to the final exit, a floor length gown with a tight bodice that was ruched, the accordion pleat skirt flowing.

There was no daywear, everything was eveningwear, unless you count the golden sports shorts, or the pleated walking shorts paired with an empire blouse. Still, the gold embroidery and beading just made them eveningwear.

Everything was signature Elie Saab, who as a designer has taken luxury to its zenith. The floral prints that were stylized shown in voile were a dull gold. There was also a reference to his Fall 2006 haute couture collection, the chevrons and graphic shapes, though this time it was in gold, instead of black.

The audience, who read the press notes before the show started, was quiet the whole time as Elie Saab’s message was sinking in. When the designer came out to take his bow, there was a resounding applause, his fans and supporters saying Bravo to Saab’s message and collection.

Elie Saab

Elie Saab

Elie Saab

Elie Saab