Spring 2017 Haute Couture: Georges Hobeika's Oriental Inspirations

Though he has been presenting collections during couture week since 2001, this was the first season Georges Hobeika presented as an “invited member” of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture.

The Lebanese designer took advantage of the renewed spotlight on his creations to present a collection rich with colorful embellishments showcasing the work of his atelier, along with striking accessories.

Hobeika’s Spring/Summer 2017 Couture collection looked to the East with dragons, fans, curly clouds, flowers motifs, and gold embroideries on sky blue and rich yellow recalling Imperial China.

Beyond more literal sequin embroideries, the Chinese dragon and its serpentine, scaly body was also indirectly referenced in some of the scale like appliques on tops and skirts, while the crystal ball that often accompanies the fierce mythological creature was represented in a sprinkling of pearls on a sleeve (and the numerous clutches).

As is often the case with Hobeika’s creations, flower petal designs were used abundantly, here referencing exotic oriental gardens including Japanese sakura blossoms.

Of particular note are, the unusual triangular cut-out at the helm of pencil trousers and embroideries of large pearls cocooned inside organza flowers on the wedding dress.

Photo: @Couturenotebook