Zuhair Murad FW21 (FWC TBFashion)

Zuhair Murad’s historic atelier also had fallen victim to the Beirut explosion tragedy. Speaking from Paris, Murad recounted the heart-wrenching loss: “It was almost completely destroyed. My treasured archive went up in flames. I lost almost three-quarters of it, 20 years of work.” The unimaginable setback was followed by the onset of the pandemic. However, Murad’s spirit remained unyielding, embodying the resilience ingrained in his culture.

For Murad, the process of creating his couture collection became a source of happiness, vitality, and purpose. He was determined to showcase it in a physical format, as a symbol of renewal and hope. “My clients almost demanded it,” he explained. “They want to enjoy life, venture out again, acquire new pieces, and embrace a sense of opulent luxury.”

Lavishness and opulence have always been realms in which the designer excels. To ignite his ode to unapologetic splendor, Murad found inspiration in Venice, a city abundant in such grandeur. Venice offered a tapestry of references that intertwined its history and magnificence with Middle Eastern aesthetics.

Despite enduring invasions, destruction, and plagues throughout the centuries, the city has always resurfaced in resplendent glory, its enchantment intact. This spirit of resurgence captivated Murad, who was also fascinated by the visual allure of masked carnival balls.

Presented live in Paris to an intimate audience, Murad’s collection unfolded as an unending parade of sumptuous gowns. The designer unabashedly indulged in guilt-free, audacious glamour, revisiting his greatest hits with sheer delight.

The red-carpet-ready evening dresses dazzled with intricate embroideries and shimmered with silver and gold crystal fringes.

Ballooning taffeta capes cascaded over sinuously embellished numbers adorned with cascades of rhinestones, creating a captivating interplay between voluminous shapes and sleek silhouettes.

A rich palette of deep black harmoniously mingled with jewel tones of emerald, ruby, and sapphire, infusing the proceedings with vivacity and arresting appeal. “Women today yearn to bask in the limelight,” Murad proclaimed. “They crave the stage, desiring the radiant glow upon them, much like the chandeliers adorning the palazzos along the Grand Canal.”