DUBAI: The first lady of the US, Melania Trump, is the latest high-profile figure to champion renowned Lebanese couturier Elie Saab.
This week, Trump wore a strapless gown by the designer as she and US President Donald Trump welcomed Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a dinner at the White House.
Melania Trump wore a strapless gown by the designer. (Getty Images)
The dress was a floor-length design in an emerald-green shade, featuring gathered ruching through the bodice and torso. It flowed into a subtle mermaid-style hem, with draped detailing. She paired the look with pointed-toe heels in a coordinating tone.
In July 2018, during a visit to Brussels for NATO-related engagements, she wore one of his white cocktail dresses. (AFP)
This is not the first time she has championed Saab’s designs. In July 2018, during a visit to Brussels for NATO-related engagements, she wore one of his white cocktail dresses — a sleeveless design with a sheer overlay, chosen for an evening dinner event.
The US president’s daughter Tiffany Trump, from his second wife Marla Maples, is also a fan of Saab’s designs. At her 2022 wedding to Lebanese-born businessman Michael Boulos, she donned a custom-made Grecian-style gown by Saab.
Tiffany chose her wedding dress as a nod to Boulos’ heritage.
“It’s a Lebanese-American wedding, so we were so happy to have Elie Saab create the magic,” said mother of the bride according to People magazine at the time.
Saab’s work has long been favored by members of royal families around the world. Queen Rania of Jordan is among his most prominent clients, regularly selecting his couture for state visits and national celebrations.
His creations have also been worn by Kate Middleton, the princess of Wales — the wife of Britain’s Prince William — during key public engagements, including the blue ensemble she chose for her first garden party under the reign of King Charles in 2023. (AP)
In Europe, several Luxembourg royals have also chosen his designs for major milestones: Princess Claire and Princess Stephanie both wore Elie Saab bridal gowns for their weddings, while other members of the family often appear in his evening wear.
His creations have also been worn by Kate Middleton, the princess of Wales — the wife of Britain’s Prince William — during key public engagements, including the blue ensemble she chose for her first garden party under the reign of King Charles in 2023.
During the coronation garden party at Buckingham Palace, her look featured a lace top and an embroidered tulle skirt — an outfit she had first worn at Royal Ascot in 2019.
