I wanted to share with you the new couture collection by my favourite designer. Zuhair Murad is a Beirut-based Lebanese fashion designer. His creations are regularly seen on the red carpet by celebrities such as Blake Lively, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian to name a few.
I first came across Murad’s work a couple of years ago. I was reading a catwalk report and came across a stunning gown with lace and gold embellishments. I researched the designer and located his show rooms. I was immediately fascinated by the detail in his outfits. I genuinely felt like he was designing gowns with my style in mind. His creations are perfection!
As an Asian model, I have been fortunate enough to wear some gorgeous outfits. I am always looking at details in an ensemble and the way it falls on the body. It also means that I have grown up wearing outfits with heavy work, crystals, swarovski and sequinze. This is what drew me to his designs. The thing that appeals to me about Murad’s designs is that they have a couture shape; the one shoulder, nipped in waist and corsetry but the embroidery is drawn with inspiration from his Middle Eastern roots.
I regularly research Murad’s collections. He is a breath taking designer whose couture pieces are always gorgeous. I can always spot a Murad gown and the beadwork on his dresses is sensational. I have picked my favourite from his summer 2011 and fall 2012 collection.
For Spring 2011, Murad created fairy-tale looks with glamorous sparkles I expected, but there were are also tribal and animal prints showcased. Murad was inspired by a legend, the historical Tin Hinan, a 4th century woman of prestige whose monumental tomb is located in the Sahara at Abalessa in the Ahaggar region of Algeria. The tomb was opened by a French army team in 1925. She was found buried with heavy gold and silver jewellery and adorned with pearls. On her right forearm she wore 7 silver bracelets, and on her left, 7 gold bracelets. Another silver bracelet and a gold ring were placed with the body. The legend of this Muslim tribal woman is alleged the inspiration for Murad’s 2011 designs.
For Fall 2011, Murad’s couture collection was inspired by the Chinese Empress Wu Zetian. She was renowned for her remarkable beauty whilst ruling with an iron fist. Powerful and eccentric, she kept a male harem (saucy!) and excelled in the arts. I note that once again, Murad has drawn inspiration from a woman of character. The exquisite dresses from this collection feature intricate knotting details, mandarin collars, foliage embroideries of bamboo shoots, cherry blossoms and love birds. I have picked my favourite from both collections.
Look and enjoy!
