Actress Emma Watson joins board of major French conglomerate 

Emma Watson joined the board of the French fashion giant Kering. (AFP)
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Updated 17 June 2020
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Actress Emma Watson joins board of major French conglomerate 

PARIS: Emma Watson, the actress and activist who made her name as Hermione Granger in the “Harry Potter” films, joined the board of the French fashion giant Kering Tuesday, in a major coup for the world’s second biggest luxury group.

The British star, who was born in Paris, is the face of the Good On You app, which rates fashion brands on their ethical and sustainability credentials.

Although Kering is seen to have the environmental edge on its rival LVMH, its top labels Gucci, Saint Laurent and Balenciaga are only rated “Not good enough” or “It’s a start” by Good On You.

Watson “is one of the world’s most popular actors and best-known activists,” Kering said in a statement after the appointment of the 30-year-old, a high-profile women’s rights advocate as well as a UN goodwill ambassador.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

I’m hopeful we’ll hear some concrete, bold commitments from @G7 states, especially @10DowningStreet at #G7Biarritz. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ One of the basic things we're asking states to do is ratify all relevant gender equality standards: http://bit.ly/GEACfrance There are some incredible global treaties and conventions that set minimum standards for women's and girls’ rights but some G7 states haven’t yet stepped up and made them a reality. #BeBraveG7 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ On a personal note, the fact that the UK has still not ratified the Istanbul Convention, despite signing it in 2012, is really disappointing to me. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ For those who haven’t heard of it before, the Istanbul Convention is an agreement that makes governments responsible for combating violence against women and domestic violence. It’s focussed on preventing violence, protecting survivors and prosecuting accused offenders. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I’ll be proud to say my country is committed to preventing violence against women when the UK government ratifies the Istanbul Convention and fully complies with its requirements. Every week, two women in England and Wales are killed by their current or former partner. Violence against women and girls is one of the most serious human rights issues in the UK. To date, 34 states in the Council of Europe have ratified the Istanbul Convention. Let’s not drag our feet on this any longer, @10DowningStreet! Let’s be number 35!⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

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“Emma Watson is also a pioneer in advocating for sustainable fashion,” Kering added.


K-Pop star Jennie creates history while wearing Georges Hobeika

Updated 22 December 2025
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K-Pop star Jennie creates history while wearing Georges Hobeika

  • K-pop superstar wins top honors at Melon Music Awards
  • Hobeika celebrated 30-year anniversary in October 2025

DUBAI: Jennie, the K-pop superstar best known as a member of global sensation Blackpink, delivered a landmark moment at the recent Melon Music Awards in Seoul — both musically and sartorially.

The singer arrived in Guro-gu wearing a dramatic couture creation by Lebanese designer Georges Hobeika, instantly commanding attention on the red carpet. The event, which celebrates South Korea’s top musical talent, drew major stars including G-Dragon, Zico and EXO.

Jennie emerged as the night’s biggest winner, taking home the Record of the Year (Daesang) award — a historic first for a solo artist at the awards. The win caps off a major year for the performer, following the March release of her debut solo album, “Ruby.”

For the occasion, the “Mantra” singer chose a ballgown from Hobeika’s Fall 2025 Couture collection.

The look featured a structured white corset bodice with a lace-up back, embellished with crystal accents along the straps, flowing into an oversized black tulle skirt worn low on the waist. The voluminous silhouette gave the gown a sculptural, almost theatrical presence.

Jennie kept her styling restrained, allowing the couture piece to take centerstage. She accessorized with a single statement ring set with an emerald-green stone, while her hair was pulled into a loose low ponytail, secured with a silver flower pendant.

Beyond her chart-topping success, Jennie has steadily built her fashion credentials. A longtime Chanel ambassador, she has also fronted campaigns for brands including Jean Paul Gaultier and Beats.

Meanwhile, in October this year, Hobeika celebrated 30 years since launching his namesake brand. The couturier and his son, Jad Hobeika, the brand’s creative director, took to Instagram to reflect on their journey.

To mark the occasion, the house released a short documentary in which Jad opens up about working alongside his father and continuing the brand’s legacy.

“Working with Georges, there’s definitely, you know, he created fashion like no one else in the Middle East,” Jad said in the video.

Founded in Beirut in 1995, Maison Georges Hobeika is one of Lebanon’s established fashion houses and a regular participant in the Paris Haute Couture calendar.

The brand is known for its couture and ready-to-wear collections featuring detailed craftsmanship and refined designs.