Glamour and nothing but Glamour. If only this term could do enough justice for Rani Zakhem’s new Spring- Summer 2016 couture collection. Set in a modern-time fairyland, the couture collection invites its devotees into the mysteriously gorgeous world of masks, gowns and grand balls. Perhaps it is just a time capsule taking us back to a time where a glitzy night out at the Plaza was all you needed to reassert your feminine fashionable senses.
Celebrated for his singular forte to glam up the Hollywood scene, the famed designer embarks on an exploration of the past, waltzing his way into the 20th century lavish balls. Another thing we love about the alluring collection- amongst many- might just be those little snippets of pure sumptuousness, portrayed in the airy dresses and vibrant jewels. The collection flashes sensual corsets where princess-like petticoats trail off at the seam in a floor-grazing or midi kind of way. Bodices are upholstered with a vast bow, corset necklines feature crystal-enhanced laces and trains and capes add a dash of grandeur to the designs. But a Rani Zakhem Couture collection would not be one without the staple long sheaths and mermaid dresses which now seem to be masked under a gold lace and paisley silk pattern or even under a nacreous pearl white damask silk completed with a diamond-shaped jewel.
The journey back in time shows glimpses of tulle crinolines, satin, silk organza and Mikado, adding a little flair to the princess-y effect we all long for. The workshop expertise of the Lebanese designer is exhibited through the elitist color palette selection that ranges from white to pink, yellow, pale blue, Nile green, black and gold.
Made for today’s sophisticated woman, Rani Zakhem’s gowns bring back the magic of a simpler time, where style and sensibility are caught in a princess – art déco love affair.
Cindy Menassa
