by Leonore Dicker
 
We’d like to introduce you to 3 fresh Lebanese fashion labels: Azzi&Osta, Sara Melki and Hussein Bazaza. Each of these brands has its own defined personality and is firmly establishing its name in the industry: We suspect them to be on their path to greatness.


Sara Melki is a lively creative spirit who began her studies in 2004 at the Lebanese Academy of Fine Arts before moving to Paris to take classes at the famous Studio Berçot. Once her degree was completed, Sara moved to New York to intern with renowned designers, such as Proenza Schouler. She launched her own bouncy line in 2012 upon her return to Beirut, where she currently resides.



Do you get more inspired by art, music or films?
I get inspired by everything that surrounds me, but most of all Music when I am creating. My first major was fine arts so Modern Art is my main source of inspiration. Basquiat, Miro, Calder and Jeff Koons to name a few have all deeply influenced my tastes.
 
What’s your favorite print?
Monkey and space prints, as they were the first prints I worked with at Studio Berçot in Paris.
 
Do you prefer pastel or bold colors? 
Bold colors.
 
Is it better to be over-dressed or under-dressed?
Neither. Just feel comfortable and be yourself!
 
New Year's Eve: chic pants or a dress?
I would have to say chic pants.






Hussein Bazaza knows what he wants and what he likes. The talented ESMOD graduate has won many awards, including the Fashion Design Prize in June 2011. Bazaza has been loyal to his roots from the start and has worked with the gifted Lebanese designers Rabih Kayrouz and Elie Saab. Just like them, he enjoys refined gowns and couture.



Who is your style icon?
Cate Blanchett.

According to you, what should a woman never wear?
A corset with jeans!

The best accessory to an outfit: shoes, hair or makeup?
Shoes.

White or black?
Black.

New Year's Eve: chic pants or a dress?
A dress.






Meet George Azzi and Assaad Osta, the designer duo behind Azzi&Osta that’s scheduled to take the region by storm. Both graduated from ESMOD where they respectively won the Prize of the President of the Jury Mr Elie Saab and the Prize of the Jury. Their brainchild was born in 2010 and quickly got the attention it deserved.


 
Favorite era (in terms of fashion)?
Late 50's, early 60's

Do you prefer designing for summer or winter?
Azzi: summer; Osta: winter.

Do you think a woman’s style should be quirky or mysterious?
Mysterious.

Leather, velvet or satin?
Velvet.

New Year's Eve: chic pants or a dress?
A dress. A short flapper dress, to be precise.