Spring 2012 Haute Couture: Elie Saab's Sugary Treats

Elie Saab never fails to impress with his shimmering couture collections that bedazzled with the intricacy of its fabrics and its figure-flattering elongated shapes.

His Spring-Summer 2012 collection, christened ‘Chrysalides and Blossom,’ was a sweet pastel revolution that embraced a much lighter palette than the designer usually used and proved to be on trend with the current push for sugary tones.

Strong shoulders marked a new approach to Saab’s elegant silhouette, along with the addition of short, innocent over-the-knee babydoll dresses that had a carefree allure that contrasted with his usual long evening gowns neatly nipped at the waists with a slim bow leather belt and sporting deep plunging necklines and delicately embroidered long sleeves with geometrical patterns. Jacquard shawl and short floral capes were added for late night out

The collection was encrusted with crystallized tulle flower and beading so delicate and light that the gossamer fineness gave the illusion of a constellation of twinkling stars. Intricate, tone-one tone embroidery enlaced the bodice, tulle flowers gave way to lace petals, impressionist motifs stitched in silk thread and abstract silver leaf appliques.

The majestic bridal gown in pink floral print gazar and embroideries had a tightly fitted bodice cinched with a small bow belt before giving way and a large bell shape gown and pleated embroidered train at the back.

With pastels the “It” colour of this season, the new collection was immediately embraced by Hollywood celebrities, with Megan Fox, Emma Stone, Katy Perry and Berenice Bejo all photographed wearing ones of these new creations.

As Published in Couture by Designaré - Vol 2 (April 2012)