This season, Lebanese designer Elie Saab presented an array of delicately constructed couture dresses for Spring Summer 2014 at the National Theatre in Trocadero, Paris.
A subtle sex appeal was masterfully incorporated into the line-up, with high split skirts and nipped-in waists contributing to a very feminine collection.
Spring flowers graced many bodices that were carefully made up of a combination of subtle prints and crystals embroidered over organza and tulle.
The rich tones and botanical theme of the collection was inspired by 19th Century Dutch painter Sir Lawrence Alma Tadema renowned for his paintings of women from the Roman Empire, which often incorporated lots of flowers.
There was an evident shift to a lighter touch than Saab’s previous work and a clever use of classic styles which had been mixed with a modern twist. Gently draped fabrics had been delicately dip dyed and modern pockets had been fitted to Grecian style bustier ball gowns as well as floor skimming and capped sleeve dresses.
Nevertheless, the unmistakable hand-craftsmanship of couture was as evident as always.