TLDR:
Elie Saab celebrates 45 years in fashion
Halle Berry rewears iconic Oscars gown
Celine Dion debuts in Riyadh
RIYADH (The Thursday Times) — Saudi Arabia’s capital witnessed an unforgettable night as Lebanese designer Elie Saab celebrated 45 years of couture with “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab.” Held during Riyadh Season, the star-studded event brought together a stunning mix of fashion icons, legendary performers, and over 1,000 attendees, all to honour Saab’s legacy. Celebrities, including Halle Berry and Jennifer Lopez, graced the runway and stage, combining fashion and entertainment in an elaborate tribute that embodied the essence of Saab’s world-renowned aesthetic.
Elie Saab’s 45-year fashion legacy takes the spotlight
With 45 years in the industry, Elie Saab has grown into one of fashion’s most celebrated designers, known for his intricate, flowing gowns that embody elegance and luxury. The event in Riyadh marked a milestone for Saab, showcasing over 300 couture designs from his latest collection and archival pieces that defined his career. Saab’s influence was on full display as his signature style resonated with the event’s visual and artistic direction, capturing the timeless sophistication that has won him clients from royals to Hollywood stars.
Halle Berry revives her historic Oscars gown
One of the night’s most anticipated moments was Halle Berry’s entrance in her famous burgundy gown from the 2002 Oscars, a dress that symbolised a groundbreaking moment in both cinema and fashion history. Berry’s walk in the gown recalled her history-making Oscar win as the first Black woman awarded Best Actress, solidifying Saab’s reputation on the global stage. Her return to the red carpet in this gown offered a sense of nostalgia, celebrating not only Saab’s designs but also the moments in history he helped shape.
Celine Dion’s powerful debut in Riyadh
Celine Dion, a long-time friend of Saab’s, delivered a heartfelt performance in her first-ever appearance in Riyadh. Draped in a custom Saab gown, Dion captivated the audience with renditions of “The Power of Love” and “I’m Alive,” marking a triumphant return to the stage after health challenges. Dion’s moving performance, met with roaring applause, added an emotional weight to the evening, showcasing not only her vocal prowess but also her resilience and Saab’s influence on her career. The audience watched with admiration as she sang, each note adding to the evening’s grandeur.
Jennifer Lopez and Camila Cabello ignite the stage
Adding to the spectacle, Jennifer Lopez delivered an electrifying set, performing her iconic tracks such as “Let’s Get Loud” and “On The Floor,” blending her powerhouse vocals with high-energy choreography. Dressed in a shimmering bodysuit designed by Saab, Lopez’s presence and stagecraft brought an electrifying dimension to the runway. Similarly, Camila Cabello, surrounded by a floral-inspired set, enchanted the audience with hits like “Havana” and “Never Be The Same,” delivering a playful and colourful addition to the event that complemented Saab’s vibrant designs.
A-list guests and supermodels celebrate a night of style
The event was filled with stars, from Hollywood actors to the world’s top models, enhancing the glamour of the night. In the front row were celebrities like Kelly Rutherford and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, while supermodels Helena Christensen, Adriana Lima, and Jourdan Dunn walked the runway in Saab’s creations. These moments reflected Saab’s longstanding relationship with the world of high fashion, showing his versatility as a designer who has dressed countless red-carpet icons. The mix of international stars underscored the global reach of Saab’s brand, positioning him as a bridge between Western glamour and Arab cultural heritage.
Bridging Arab heritage and global luxury fashion
Elie Saab’s vision for the evening extended beyond fashion to celebrate Arab heritage. The set design, musical choices, and the show’s storytelling were all woven into a loose “1,001 Arabian Nights” theme, giving the event a narrative that connected Saab’s work with his roots. Saab aimed to demonstrate the depth of Arab creativity to a global audience, positioning his work as a reflection of both the past and future. His 45th-anniversary show underscored the growing impact of the Middle East in the global luxury market, symbolising a fusion of cultural pride and forward-thinking artistry.
Saudi Arabia’s emerging role in global fashion
The celebration was a key event in Riyadh Season, Saudi Arabia’s annual festival aimed at showcasing the kingdom as a cultural and entertainment hub. As part of the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative, Riyadh Season has brought an array of international events to the city, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in fields like fashion, music, and the arts. With Turki Al-Alshaikh co-hosting alongside Saab, the evening also emphasised Saudi Arabia’s commitment to making Riyadh a global fashion destination. The success of this event signals the kingdom’s ambitions to be a cultural leader in the region, opening doors for further collaborations with major figures in the fashion world.
