ELLIE SAAB PARIS F/W 2010

Elie Saab can thank Halle Berry for opting for the designer’s iridescent brown gown with its floral topped peek-a-boo lace when she picked up her Oscar a couple of years ago, because it turned him into an instant Oscar red carpet staple. Two notables wore Elie Saab Spring 2010 couture on the red carpet this season, and while the pale pink gown that Anna Kendrick wore washed her out, Rachel McAdams dazzled in a strapless painterly gown from the designer’s collection.

Unlike Saab’s couture collections, his ready-to-wear tends to be more focused on day and cocktail, so I was surprised to see a number of gowns in the mix this season. There’s little doubt that a number of the gimmick-free, sophisticated looks will make red carpet appearances.

The Fall/Winter 2010 collection was a lot darker in its color palette than the standouts from the designer’s couture line. In a testament to Saab’s talent, he succeeded in creating flowingly feminine looks via fluttering tulle and chiffon, cross-draped dresses that, while monochromatic, were never boring. In the same token, the collection had some va-va-voom minis that were bold yet tasteful, and impressive in their craftsmanship – notably a ¾ sleeve embroidered mini dress with collarbone/shoulder cut-outs.
Also in the mix were a slew of knee-length black dresses that would work just as well for a business meeting as they would for a cocktail party, depending on how one opted to accessories them. Lace, straps, and knots also found their way onto dresses, spicing up simple silhouettes and monochromatic looks that remained easy to wear and flattering.
Images courtesy of the Fashion Spot forums.

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