In a dazzling homage to nearly half a century of unparalleled craftsmanship, Lebanese couturier Elie Saab (Instagram) recently transformed Riyadh into a dreamscape for his 45th-anniversary celebration. Entitled 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab, the event fused fashion, music, and cultural storytelling, captivating an audience of over 1,000 guests with a spectacle unlike any other.
A Stage Set for Legends
The evening, part of the 2024 Riyadh Season calendar, was an ode to Saab’s storied legacy and Arab culture’s boundless creativity. Against the grandeur of a coiling staircase and stage sets reminiscent of One Thousand and One Nights, Halle Berry opened the show in a moment of cinematic nostalgia. Donning the iconic burgundy gown that accompanied her historic Oscar win in 2002, Berry’s presence was both a nod to Saab’s red-carpet dominance and a reminder of the timeless allure of his designs.
The runway transitioned seamlessly into a multi-sensory experience as Jennifer Lopez descended onto the stage amid a flurry of feathers. Wearing a glittering tasseled bodysuit, the global superstar delivered a powerhouse performance of I Will Survive, complemented by hits like Let’s Get Loud and Waiting for Tonight. Her high-energy routines embodied a spirit of resilience and renewal, echoing the evening’s overarching theme.
Camila Cabello followed with a whimsical garden-inspired act, emerging from a canopy of oversized blooms in a blush-hued gown. Her rendition of Havana, cheekily reimagined as Saudia, charmed the audience and paid homage to the host country’s cultural renaissance.
But it was Celine Dion who delivered the night’s crowning moment. Descending a golden staircase in an embroidered cape gown, Dion brought the audience to their feet with her emotive performances of The Power of Love and I’m Alive. As her third public appearance since returning to the spotlight, her presence was both triumphant and deeply poignant.
Fashion Meets Fantasy
The runway featured over 300 couture creations, showcasing Saab’s enduring commitment to femininity and grace. Styled by Carine Roitfeld, the collection wove together new designs and archival masterpieces, seamlessly bridging past and present. Models, including Adriana Lima, Alek Wek, and Jourdan Dunn, brought Saab’s vision to life with choreography by Blanca Li, who expertly layered fashion and performance into a cohesive narrative.
Among the standout moments was a capsule of looks inspired by One Thousand and One Nights. Here, Saab reinterpreted the tales through his signature lens of opulence—think intricate embroidery, flowing capes, and luminous jewel tones.
A Cultural Celebration
The event was a powerful statement about the region’s growing influence on global fashion. Co-hosted by Turki bin Abdul Mohsen Al-Alshaikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, the evening underscored the synergy between art and culture that defines Riyadh Season.
“This was about showcasing the richness of Arab heritage and its contemporary evolution,” Saab remarked. “I want the world to see how we celebrate beauty, life, and creativity in this region.”
Star-Studded Elegance
Front-row luminaries included Monica Bellucci, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and a constellation of Middle Eastern stars such as Nadine Nassib Njeim and Elissa. Each added to the evening’s glittering tableau, a testament to Saab’s universal appeal.
As the night concluded, Saab and his son, Elie Saab Jr., reflected on the immense effort behind the show. “This was a labor of love,” Saab Jr. said. “We wanted to create a memory, an experience that bridges generations while embracing the future. Tonight, we didn’t just celebrate 45 years—we paved the way for what lies ahead.”
Indeed, 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab was more than a fashion show—it was an extravaganza of storytelling, an emblem of cultural pride, and a luminous milestone in the ever-evolving narrative of one of the world’s most celebrated designers.
For more stories of regional and international fashion, visit our dedicated archives.
