As usual, the Elie Saab Haute Couture collection at Paris Fall/Winter Fashion Week 2016 was the picture of elegance and sophistication. However, the house had a few surprises in store this season, not the least of which was models walking down the runway with mini-mes in identical couture gowns. The adorable little girls pranced down the runway beside the models, their dresses both beautiful and appropriately childlike. Saab did not attempt to shock the audience by placing the girls in gowns that were too grown up for them, none of the dresses had even a hint of disconcerting sexuality that has become commonplace with some children’s clothing. Instead, the dresses were sweet and innocent; it would be easy to imagine any little girl who wants to be a princess twirling in one of these couture gowns.
The gowns worn by fully grown models were also effortlessly beautiful, as can be expected from the Beirut based designer. This year, the collection featured a bit less of Saab’s trademark beading in its early looks, though the embellishments were seen more heavily towards the show’s finale. Hearts, birds, and flowers could be seen in the gowns, some dresses offering new surprises with each glance. Velvet and gold were features throughout the collection, which was heavily inspired by New York City and the art deco movement. One dress even appeared to mimic the Chrysler building’s iconic design. Elie Saab chose to use three-dimensional fabric flowers and golden beading to decorate his final creation: a striking blush pink wedding dress that closed the show.
