Elie Saab, the celebrated Lebanese couturier, had plenty to celebrate as he marked the 45th anniversary of his eponymous brand with the launch of The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The extravagant event, which was part of the official Riyadh Season calendar for 2024, was a stunning fusion of fashion, art, and entertainment, drawing global attention and highlighting the designer’s longstanding legacy in the fashion world.
Elie Saab Celebrates 45th Anniversary with “The 1001 Seasons” in Riyadh
Held in one of Riyadh’s luxurious venues, The 1001 Seasons was not just a fashion show but an immersive experience that celebrated Saab’s remarkable journey over the last four and a half decades. The event combined world-class performances, breathtaking couture, and high-profile celebrity appearances, making it one of the most talked-about occasions of the year.
A Celebration of 45 Years of Elie Saab
This spectacular showcase marked more than just a new couture collection—it was a celebration of Elie Saab’s incredible 45-year journey in the fashion industry. Since founding his eponymous brand in 1982, Saab has risen to global prominence, becoming a favorite of royalty, celebrities, and fashion connoisseurs worldwide. His signature style—characterized by intricate beadwork, luxurious fabrics, and ethereal silhouettes—has made him a key figure in haute couture, with collections that often draw inspiration from both Western luxury and Middle Eastern tradition.
The 45th anniversary celebration added an emotional layer to the event, as Saab reflected on his journey from Beirut to becoming one of the world’s most beloved couturiers. This milestone event marked a moment of both triumph and creativity, blending his past achievements with his bold vision for the future.
A Night of Glamour, Art, and Stunning Performances
The red carpet at The 1001 Seasons event was nothing short of spectacular, with a host of international celebrities and top models dressed in Elie Saab’s iconic designs. Fashion icons Helena Christensen, Candice Swanepoel, Alek Wek, Eva Herzigova, Jourdan Dunn, and Adriana Lima strutted down the runway, each wearing Saab’s haute couture creations—exquisite gowns that combined intricate detailing with a timeless elegance.
Jennifer Lopez 2024 – Elie Saab 45th Anniversary with “The 1001 Seasons” in Riyadh
The event was not just about fashion—it was a full sensory experience. The performances throughout the evening brought the show to life, with a star-studded lineup that included Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Camila Cabello, Nancy Ajram, and Amr Diab. Their captivating performances added an electric atmosphere to the show, with the music and choreography curated by Blanca Li, who directed the artistic elements of the night. These performances were the perfect complement to Saab’s couture, enhancing the connection between art, fashion, and culture.
Celine Dion 2024 – Elie Saab 45th Anniversary with “The 1001 Seasons” in Riyadh
The 1001 Seasons Collection: A Fusion of Nature and Couture
Elie Saab’s collection for The 1001 Seasons event was a breathtaking showcase of his signature couture. With more than 300 looks presented, the collection explored themes of nature, the changing seasons, and the passage of time. Saab’s designs, inspired by both the Western couture tradition and Middle Eastern cultural motifs, featured rich textures, opulent fabrics, and a color palette that ranged from deep jewel tones to delicate pastels.
Elie Saab 45th Anniversary with “The 1001 Seasons” in Riyadh
The collection was a tribute to nature’s cycles, with each gown telling a unique story through fabric, embellishments, and silhouette. Some of Saab’s most iconic creations, including the gown worn by Halle Berry at the Oscars, made a return on the runway, evoking nostalgia and celebrating the enduring power of his design.
The 1001 Seasons theme also drew from the legendary One Thousand and One Nights, with each piece reflecting the romance, mystery, and artistry associated with the ancient tales of the Middle East. Saab’s mastery of haute couture was on full display as he brought his vision of timeless elegance to the stage, beautifully merging tradition with innovation.
A Starry Audience and International Guests
Halley Berry at Elie Saab 45th Anniversary collection with “The 1001 Seasons
The evening was attended by a mix of international celebrities, industry icons, and influential figures from the world of fashion, entertainment, and business. Among the guests were Carine Roitfeld, Monica Bellucci, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Poppy Delevingne, and Kelly Rutherford, all of whom added to the event’s allure. The front row was filled with fashion royalty, including top models Helena Christensen, Candice Swanepoel, Alek Wek, Eva Herzigova, Jourdan Dunn, and Adriana Lima, who took their turn on the runway, giving the audience a true masterclass in haute couture.
Riyadh Season: A Global Cultural Hub
Elie Saab 45th Anniversary collection “The 1001 Seasons” in Riyadh
As part of the Riyadh Season—an annual series of events designed to transform Saudi Arabia into a global cultural and entertainment hub—the event further cemented the kingdom’s growing influence in the international fashion and arts scene. The Riyadh Season, introduced in 2019 as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program, aims to diversify the nation’s economy and promote tourism. By hosting The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab, Riyadh has reinforced its status as a cultural epicenter where fashion, art, and entertainment intersect.
Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a major cultural destination is evident in the increasing number of international designers, artists, and performers engaging with the country. With The 1001 Seasons event, Riyadh has proven itself as a dynamic location for global fashion and entertainment, making a significant impact on the international luxury scene.
Elie Saab 45th Anniversary with “The 1001 Seasons” in Riyadh
Elie Saab’s The 1001 Seasons event in Riyadh was a stunning tribute to the designer’s 45-year legacy in fashion. The fusion of art, fashion, and entertainment made for a spectacular evening, one that celebrated Saab’s enduring influence and the growing cultural vibrancy of Saudi Arabia. With its breathtaking couture, star-studded performances, and captivating audience, the event underscored Riyadh’s rise as a global fashion destination and marked a historic moment in the world of haute couture. As Elie Saab continues to shape the future of fashion, The 1001 Seasons is a testament to his timeless elegance, innovation, and the beauty of cultural exchange.
Elie Saab 45th Anniversary collection with “The 1001 Seasons” Riyadh
Elie Saab 45th Anniversary collection with “The 1001 Seasons