Ashley Park shows off Elie Saab look in New York

Ashley Park shows off Elie Saab look in New York
Ashley Park showed off an Elie Saab gown in New York. (Getty Images)
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Updated 12 October 2024
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Ashley Park shows off Elie Saab look in New York

Ashley Park shows off Elie Saab look in New York

DUBAI: US actress and musician Ashley Park showed off a glittering gown by Lebanese designer Elie Saab in New York.

Best known for her portrayal of Mindy Chen on the Netflix comedy series “Emily in Paris,” the actress attended the Time100 Next gala in a halter-neck dress from Saab’s Fall 2024 collection. The figure-hugging number was embellished with spherical sequins and minute stars overlain on a geometric gridwork of beading.

The stars of the show are known for championing Arab designers, with Egyptian jewelry label Jude Benhalim nabbing a starring role in the latest season of the hit Netflix series that was released in September.

Throughout multiple scenes, the Cairo-based label’s pieces are featured prominently on several characters in different episodes.

In episode six of season five, the Ripple Ring in gold is seen on Emily Cooper, portrayed by Lily Collins. Also in episode six, Camille’s mother, Louise, played by Camille Japy, shines in the Droplet Earrings in white.

Additionally, Park’s character is spotted wearing the Elea Hoops in the same episode.

Benhalim, who is part-Libyan and part-Syrian and grew up in Egypt, founded her eponymous brand in 2011 when she was just 17 and has since gone on to release a number of lines that each pay tribute to her heritage, finding fans in a handful of celebrities.

Meanwhile, Elie Saab has no shortage of celebrity fans and recently unveiled his Spring/Summer 2025 collection at Paris Fashion Week in front of a star-studded crowd.

The designer showcased a mesmerizing journey through the African savannah that felt fresh, vibrant, and completely devoid of tired clichés, according to the Associated Press’s Thomas Adamson.

Right from the start, Saab showed he wasn’t afraid to play with the safari staples — but with a twist. Safari suits, reimagined as roomy linen separates and sleek crepe jumpsuits, traded their usual khaki for the blazing red of fireball lilies, moody elephant gray, and the ochre dust of West Africa. It was a palette that brought the raw, natural beauty of the continent to life without falling into the predictable tropes. These looks weren’t the romanticized garb of the intrepid explorer; they were effortlessly chic, perfectly fitted for today’s cosmopolitan adventurer.


Egyptian luxury label Okhtein launches Dubai store ahead of Saudi opening

Egyptian luxury label Okhtein launches Dubai store ahead of Saudi opening
Updated 20 November 2024
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Egyptian luxury label Okhtein launches Dubai store ahead of Saudi opening

Egyptian luxury label Okhtein launches Dubai store ahead of Saudi opening

DUBAI: Egyptian luxury label Okhtein, which has been touted by celebrities including Beyonce, Halle Berry and Gigi Hadid, has opened its first outlet in Dubai, its first bricks-and-mortar presence in the Gulf before it expands in Saudi Arabia in 2025.

Founded by sisters Aya and Mounaz Abdel Raouf, Okhtein combines Middle Eastern artistry with global fashion appeal.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by OKHTEIN (@okhtein)

On the decision to open in Dubai, Aya told Arab News: “Dubai is the fashion hub of the Middle East, and it’s easily accessible for international clients. It’s a key city in the GCC region’s fashion scene and holds a special place for us.” 

Mounaz said that Okhtein’s signature design elements, such as gold plating, crystals and Swarovski embellishments, resonate with the Gulf clientele’s preference for detailed, opulent pieces. “That ‘bling’ element is something our customers really gravitate toward,” she said. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by OKHTEIN (@okhtein)

After the opening of the Dubai store, Okhtein plans to expand further with a boutique in Riyadh’s Kingdom Mall, anticipated for early 2025. Mounaz described the Saudi market as a “natural next step.”

“The luxury market in Saudi Arabia presents a huge opportunity. It’s a large and growing market, with a clientele that is familiar with our brand. Many Saudi clients already buy from us when they visit Egypt, so we’re confident that we’ll be welcomed with open arms,” Mounaz said. 

Reflecting on Okhtein’s growing international presence, Aya said: “We’re honored by the international recognition, and it drives us to push the brand even further. It’s both a happy and humbling feeling.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by OKHTEIN (@okhtein)

“We’re committed to showing the world the Arab luxury dream, and while we’ve come a long way, there’s still much more to achieve,” she added. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by OKHTEIN (@okhtein)

One standout moment for the sisters was when US model Gigi Hadid showed off Okhtein bags on social media.

“She styled three of our bags in a very cool and unexpected way. Gigi is the perfect fusion of Arab and international influences, and her styling and persona made the moment even more special for us. Seeing our bags on her was truly exciting,” Mounaz said.

The label also collaborated with French luxury brand Balmain for its spring/summer 2023 collection, creating a statement bustier created from worn-out resin.

 


Kerry Washington hits the red carpet in Elie Saab

Kerry Washington hits the red carpet in Elie Saab
Updated 20 November 2024
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Kerry Washington hits the red carpet in Elie Saab

Kerry Washington hits the red carpet in Elie Saab

DUBAI: US actress Kerry Washington showed off a gown by Elie Saab in Hollywood this week, while Jennifer Lopez opted for a look by Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad.

Washington and Lopez attended the 2024 Governors Awards in Los Angeles in their chosen Lebanese designs, with the former opting for an off-white gown from Saab’s Spring/ Summer 2024 Couture line and the latter showing off a beaded number from Murad’s Fall/Winter 2024 Couture collection.

Kerry Washington wore a gown from Elie Saab’s Spring/ Summer 2024 Couture line. (Getty Images)

Lopez accessorized with a Tyler Ellis bag, while Washington went for jewelry by British label Anabela Chan to complement the gem-encrusted neckline of her gown.

Lopez made the red carpet appearance fresh off a stint in Riyadh, where she performed at Elie Saab’s 45th anniversary show.

The songstress hit the stage in Saudi Arabia on Nov. 13 alongside Celine Dion, Halle Berry, Camila Cabello, Nancy Ajram and Amr Diab.

Jennifer Lopez opted for a look from Zuhair Murad’s Fall/Winter 2024 Couture collection. (Getty Images)

Opening the show was none other than Hollywood actress Berry wearing the same Elie Saab gown she wore when she won her first Oscar in 2002, making her the first Black woman to win the award for Best Actress.

Prior to the show, Berry was seen on the red carpet talking about how this was her first time meeting Saab in person, “That was the highlight of this trip for me to finally meet this man who I have been inextricably connected to for 22 years, and to give him a hug and tell him thank you.”

Celebrity stylist Law Roach, known for styling Hollywood A-listers like Zendaya, Anya Taylor Joy, Bella Hadid, and Celine Dion, talked to Arab News about Elie Saab’s ability to transcend eras.

“Elie Saab is one of the few couturiers whose clothes can be passed down to generations and generations and be reinterpreted.”

“Maybe someone got married in it (a dress), and maybe generations down the granddaughter of someone gets married in the same dress, it has that possibility of just being timeless and forever,” he said.

The evening was attended by more than 1,000 guests, including Egyptian actress Youssra; Italian star Monica Bellucci; British models Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Poppy Delevingne and Jourdan Dunn; supermodels Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel and Helena Christensen; and Arab actresses Nadine Njeim, Cyrine Abdel Nour, and Tara Emad.


Princess Rajwa attends parliament session in Jordan 

Princess Rajwa attends parliament session in Jordan 
Updated 19 November 2024
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Princess Rajwa attends parliament session in Jordan 

Princess Rajwa attends parliament session in Jordan 

DUBAI: Saudi-born Jordanian royal Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein attended a ceremony marking the inauguration of the first ordinary session of the 20th Parliament in Amman on Monday, marking her second public appearance since the birth of her first child this summer. 

The royal showed off an elegant black ensemble for the occasion, complete with an oversized belt by Dior and pumps by Chloe. The look was finished off with the Goji Mini Bag in Black by Jill Sander. 

Princess Rajwa was photographed alongside Queen Rania, who showed off a red look courtesy of Maison Valentino and Altuzarra. 

Princess Rajwa made her first public appearance since the birth of Princess Iman bint Al-Hussein bin Abdullah II at a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification match in October. 

On August 3, 2024, the royal welcomed her first child, Princess Iman, with Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah. 

At her birth, Jordan’s King Abdullah posted a tribute to his granddaughter on social media. Translated from Arabic, the post read: "I thank God for giving us our first granddaughter Iman bint Hussein. I congratulate beloved Hussein and Rajwa for their newborn.

“We ask God to raise her well and protect her for her parents. You have lit up our family.”

Princess Rajwa, who celebrated her 30th birthday in April, is the daughter of late Saudi businessman Khalid bin Musaed bin Saif bin Abdulaziz Al-Saif, who died in January this year, and his wife, Azza bint Nayef Abdulaziz Ahmad Al-Sudairi.


Flormar seeks to expand Saudi footprint to meet growing demand in beauty market

Flormar seeks to expand Saudi footprint to meet growing demand in beauty market
Updated 19 November 2024
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Flormar seeks to expand Saudi footprint to meet growing demand in beauty market

Flormar seeks to expand Saudi footprint to meet growing demand in beauty market

DUBAI: Skincare and makeup brand Flormar is planning to triple the number of its stores in Saudi Arabia over the next four to five years to meet the demand of a burgeoning and increasingly competitive market.

Established in Milan, Italy, in the late 1950s, the company is now headquartered in Turkiye. Arab News spoke to CEO Matthieu Gomart about why he is so keen to increase the brand’s presence — currently 25 outlets — in the Kingdom.

“The beauty market in the Middle East — and specifically in Saudi Arabia — is quite dynamic,” he explained. “They have double-digit growth, making it one of our most exciting markets.”

Flormar has undergone something of a transformation in recent years, refining its product lines and formulations to appeal to a broader, more discerning audience. 

(Supplied)

Gomart said the brand’s approach has evolved to focus “on high-quality makeup at affordable prices” that aligned with skincare and ethical beauty trends. 

The company’s clean and vegan products, designed to enhance skin health, have been particularly well-received among Saudi consumers, he added, noting an increasing appetite for natural ingredients and skin-friendly formulations. 

(Supplied)

It is a trend highlighted by panelists at Riyadh’s Hia Hub beauty conference in October. Industry insiders, such as Chalhoub Group president Patrick Chalhoub, told Arab News the under-30 demographic “use skincare products more frequently and are willing to experiment with innovative products, even with brands that are not necessarily very popular.”

With an entire conference dedicated to growing the Kingdom’s skincare market, it is no wonder Flormar has identified it as a target segment.

Gomart said Saudi consumers were also embracing innovations such as “skinification” — adding skincare benefits to makeup products.

To meet this demand, Flormar is adapting its offerings to include sun protection and hydration in its makeup line.

“Saudis have a strong appetite for those nutrients,” he said.

Flormar’s growth includes partnerships with local retailers, distribution through pharmacy chains, and plans to expand its e-commerce footprint.

“We are happy to be contributing to the rise of self-expression in Saudi Arabia,” Gomart added.


Lindsay Lohan stuns in New York wearing Zuhair Murad

Lindsay Lohan stuns in New York wearing Zuhair Murad
Updated 19 November 2024
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Lindsay Lohan stuns in New York wearing Zuhair Murad

Lindsay Lohan stuns in New York wearing Zuhair Murad

DUBAI: Hollywood star Lindsay Lohan has been in New York City this week showing off pieces by Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad.

The actress appeared on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” in an outfit from the designer’s Resort 2025 ready-to-wear collection which included a black, long-sleeved top with structured shoulders and silver jeweled detailing down one side. The ensemble was completed with a matching black skirt, paired with black heels.

Lohan also attended the premiere of the romantic comedy “Our Little Secret” alongside her husband, Kuwaiti financier Bader Shammas, choosing a black gown from Murad’s Spring/Summer 2025 ready-to-wear collection. The sleeveless dress featured a plunging neckline with two statement crystal-embellished motifs at the midriff.

The flowing skirt incorporated sheer panels and she topped off the look with open-toe black heels and subtle jewelry, with her hair in soft waves.

Lohan also attended the premiere of the romantic comedy “Our Little Secret” alongside her husband, Kuwaiti financier Bader Shammas. (Getty Images)

“Our Little Secret,” due for release on Netflix on Nov. 27, tells the story of Avery (Lohan) who is planning to spend Christmas with her boyfriend’s family. Things take an unexpected turn when she discovers that ex-boyfriend Logan (played by Ian Harding) is also joining the festivities, as it transpires their current partners are siblings. Avery and Logan must navigate the holiday while ensuring their former relationship remains a secret.

Meanwhile, Murad has made headlines elsewhere this week, dressing various other Hollywood celebrities.

Jennifer Lopez, a longtime admirer of his work, attended the 2024 Governors Awards on Sunday  in a black and silver dress featuring a sheer bodice, intricate beadwork and a high neckline with layered embellishments as she. The waist was accented with crystal-embellished motifs, and the outfit included a black velvet train.

Last week, over to the premiere of “Wicked” in Los Angeles, Lopez walked the red carpet in a halter gown with gemstone embellishments and side cut-outs from Murad’s Spring/Summer 2024 couture line.

This week, Argentine model and actress Eva De Dominici also opted for a Murad gown at the Los Angeles premiere of her comedy-drama, “The Uninvited.” She wore a silk and suede gown featuring lace cut-outs from the designer’s Fall 2024 ready-to-wear collection.