From familiar faces to new kids on the block, as part of our Haute Couture series MOJEH.com speaks to the designers making waves in the highest form of fashion. In our final instalment, Zuhair Murad.
‘What sets me apart? Well, I can only say it’s a great honour to be considered among the great international couture designers. I can’t speak to what sets me apart, it’s up to the people who follow and wear my designs to define my particular place.’
Born and raised in Lebanon, we can say that Zuhair Murad’s place is now as a renowned designer on the global stage. Whilst the merits of haute couture are hardly defined by a celebrity clientele, if they were then he would surely have much to sing about. His clients include everyone from Beyoncé to Miranda Kerr. With his quintessentially elegant designs – all ornate detailing and billowing sheers – he manages to capture a sense of occasion. It’s no surprise that his designs are a red-carpet favourite. ‘I think women are drawn to my designs because they celebrate the body in a beautiful way. My collections are all about glamour and femininity, along with sensuality and elegance. Women always want to look beautiful. There’s a sense of fantasy in my work because I’ve always dreamt of dressing the iconic stars of old Hollywood. Back then it was all about glamour and romance, which I evoke with the fabrics I use such as lace, chiffon and organza.’
Although an international designer, Murad’s Middle Eastern heritage marks him out as a source of pride in the region. He has managed to draw inspiration from his upbringing whilst developing an aesthetic that entices women the world over. ‘I am a Middle Eastern designer with a European vision, which stems from the cosmopolitan context in which I was raised. This combination of European and Middle Eastern cultures and their rich heritages have nourished my talent and understanding of design. It’s this diverse inspiration that motivates me to create sophisticated and glamorous collections.’
