Elie Saab Couture Fall 2021
Titled “Buds of Hope,” a floral theme ran through Elie Saab’s fall couture collection, channeling a message of optimism through a textured lineup of powdery gowns with tone-on-tone embroidery as well as a series of brighter, feathered pieces in stark colors.
“Each time, we try to present haute couture embroidery in a different manner — there are a lot of new ways of doing things, that’s the strength of the house,” said Saab, speaking to WWD via Zoom from Lebanon, noting the use of guipure lace, sheer organza and feathers.
The designer reined in volumes for some of his airy pieces, offering a pale blue dress with three-dimensional leaves that spilled down the skirt; another in pale green was sheer, with a draped bodice and lines of sequins running sideways, framing leaf-like patterns. A coat in a pastel blue — cut like a bomber jacket — was embellished with pearls and leaves, worn over a draped dress in the same color, adding volume to the slender silhouette underneath.
“We try to take away things or add things to ensure lightness,” he explained.
There was plenty of volume, too, including a wide-skirted dress in a nude color, with patches of blue and green floral patterns, topped off with a ring of rose-shaped flowers circling the neck — made of feathers.
