Elie Saab is a name that has been ruling the red carpet for years now. The name behind the brand is a creative genius known for his ultra-feminine, well-fitting dresses that make the wearer feel instantly beautiful yet powerful. Born in Lebanon and working from his office in Beirut, Saab gained popularity in the US after he dressed Oscar winner, Halle Berry, in 2002 and became the first Lebanese designer to do so. It was quite a red carpet moment, and since then, hundreds of celebrities and other notable figures have been proud wearers of his couture-like, artisanal gowns.
No star-studded, red carpet event is complete without a dreamy, head-turning Elie Saab dress. Stars such as Taylor Swift, Sonam Kapoor, Michelle Yeoh, and Meryl Streep have looked stunning at various events in the past, all donning ES. Even royalty like Queen Rania of Jordan and tennis champion Venus Williams have graced special occasions in his creations. The intricate handwork, the extreme attention to detail, the colors, and the experimentation with different silhouettes are what define Elie Saab’s dresses and put them in a coveted league.
The designer is equally sought-after for his wedding gowns, but it is the crystal-studded, bead-encrusted evening gowns at awards and movie premieres that catch global attention every year. While there have been a gazillion breathtaking looks, we’ve picked our top 10 Elie Saab red carpet moments that we’re sure will make you stop and admire too.
A lovely, floral-inspired gown to begin with, here we have supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio in a beautiful gown adorned with pink rose-petal appliqués. We are totally in love with the contrast of understated hues and bright colors!
In a sea of big, poofy ballgowns, this sleek Elie Saab dress comes as a breath of fresh air. The bold red hue, the one-shoulder, and the dramatic ruffles add the perfect amount of Oscar-worthy glamour.
How fitting that this marvelous evening gown was worn for a Disney movie premiere! Actress Yifei Liu looks every bit like a fairytale princess in this shimmering creation.
Taylor has worn quite a few Elie Saab dresses in the past, and this ombre-effect dress was very chic to say the least. We like the mixed silhouette of a mini dress and a ballgown, and she slays the look with those bright-colored heels.
How powerfully enchanting does Lupita Nyong’o look in this skillfully structured dress? On a scale of 1 to 10, we say 11. Elie Saab surely pulled out all the stops while creating this wonder.
Looking absolutely flawless and regal, Michelle Yeoh wears a wonderful Elie Saab gown decked with intricate beading and threadwork. The off-shoulder and the long, dramatic sleeves add a pretty, ultra-feminine touch.
With its daring, cut-out bodice and thigh-high slit, this Elie Saab dress slays and shows the designer’s unending willingness to explore new silhouettes and dressmaking styles.
Bollywood beauty Sonam Kapoor embodies superstar glamour in this glittering gold gown. Creating a memorable moment when she wore it to Cannes, this fabulous piece is one we cannot take our eyes off from!
Elsa from Frozen? No, that’s Elle starring in Maleficent, who leaves everyone spellbound with her red-carpet looks all the time. This beautiful blue dress with its long train hits the nail on the fashion head for its fantastical, fairy-like vibe.
Known for flaunting monochrome hues almost all the time, Angelina Jolie chose this strapless black evening gown for the Oscars a few years ago. She finished off her simple yet chic look with minimal makeup and emerald drop earrings. We love!
