Khaled: Organic Chic With An Eastern Flair
By Mari Davis
Photos by FW

PARIS, Jan 19, 2004/ FW/ --- Khaled, a young Lebanese designer showing his second haute couture collection Paris today was a pleasant surprise to say the least.

Following the footsteps of his famous countryman Elie Saab, Khaled presented a very sexy and sensuous collection worthy of a second look by Halle Berry, maybe not for an Oscar red carpet appearance, but one of her movies.

Using the traditional techniques of crochet, the young designer proved that our grandmothers who love to crochet knew something we did not, i.e., a talented designer can make something ordinary very extraordinary.

On an all fuchsia runway, with a royal blue backdrop, Khaled sent his modern day interpretations of a nomadic woman in the desert.

Reminiscent of the romantic Persian mythology of Ali Baba and Sinbad, the models did not just look beautiful, they also looked mysterious with an impish quality around them.

The most memorable pieces are the bridal gown, which can be worn by any bride all over the world, whether she is a westerner or easterner.

Exquisite embroidery and crochet, even a little bit of macramé were used on the gown itself or on the elaborate veil.

Khaled might not make a red carpet appearance in the awards ceremonies in the U.S. soon, but he surely has a great chance.

Just a little bit more seasoning, and a little bit more exposure to the proper group, and young Khaled might find himself side by side with Elie Saab in Hollywood.

Khaled

Khaled

Khaled

Khaled