To celebrate the 45th anniversary of his fashion house, Lebanese designer Elie Saab organized a tribute event in Riyadh. Between parade and catwalk, the brand wanted to make an impression by bringing on stage Céline Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry but also the Lebanese singer Nancy Ajram.
A show under the leadership of the Saudi authorities
The parade was called 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab and took place on November 13 in Saudi Arabia, as part of an annual festival called Riyadh Season. This 50-minute mega-show was much more than a parade. In its press release, the luxury house clearly expresses the objective: “The event is not only a celebration of fashion, but also of Riyadh's burgeoning influence as a global center of luxury and creativity, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a destination for world-class events that blend tradition and modernity. »
Further, the statement said that the parade is part of Saudi Arabia's broader efforts to diversify its economy by encouraging the thriving entertainment and fashion sectors. The country in fact undertook the development of Saudi fashion a few years ago. This project is part of Saudi Arabia's “Vision 2030” plan, a vast economic and social modernization program that aims to diversify and expand the Kingdom's activity beyond oil. In a post-show note, the designer did not fail to mention it: “Vision 2030, led by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is embodied in this magnificent event. »
The link between the anniversary event and the Saudi authorities is explicitly expressed in the post-show document signed by Elie Saab. The designer mentions Turki Al Sheikh, president of the General Entertainment Authority, a body that emanates from the government of Saudi Arabia. We can read: “From the initial conception, more than a year ago, to the final realization, this event is the result of tireless collaboration, fueled by the unwavering support of His Excellency Turki Al Sheikh, President of the General Entertainment Authority. His dedication made this grandiose and breathtaking event possible. »
However, the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia is worrying according to reports from Amnesty International. The organization recalls that “the Saudi authorities have adopted a policy of zero tolerance towards criticism, no matter how harmless it may be”. Furthermore, women, in particular, continue to face discrimination in law and practice, particularly regarding marriage, divorce, child custody and inheritance. These limitations could well constitute an obstacle to the development of the fashion sector in the country.
“a new beginning”
To make the event resounding, the brand surrounded itself with international personalities, the former editor-in-chief of Vogue Paris Carine Roitfeld but also Céline Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry. In addition, and to reach a global audience, the 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab were broadcast live on MBC, a Saudi television channel, and continuously on several online platforms.
The show unveiled a collection created for the occasion. It was inspired by the Arabian Nights, and aimed to express “the fusion of Arab heritage and contemporary innovation”. On stage, opulent silhouettes, flamboyant dresses, faithful to the “red carpet” aesthetic of the luxury label.
“We are condensing a lifetime of experiences and a decades-long journey into a single night, paving the way for a new beginning,” Elie Saab said in a statement. “Today, we are not simply ending 45 years of legacy, but we are ushering in new years, marked by a pivotal moment full of hope. »
Elie Saab created his eponymous brand in 1982, at the age of 18, in Beirut, Lebanon. The fashion house today has workshops in Paris, London and Lebanon, and more than a hundred boutiques around the world. Its offering is based around several lines: ready-to-wear, wedding, accessories, glasses, children's clothing, watches and perfumes, as well as a line intended for the home. At the beginning of November, Elie Saab appointed Marina Raphael, a member of the Swarovski family, as artistic and handbag design director.
