In a bold move that promises to redefine luxury accessories, Elie Saab has announced the appointment of Marina Raphael as its Artistic and Design Director for handbags. This collaboration marks a significant pivot for the Lebanese brand, setting the stage for a reimagined handbag line that reflects both Elie Saab’s craftsmanship and Raphael’s innovative vision.
Raphael expressed her enthusiasm for this opportunity, noting, “I am deeply honored to join the Elie Saab brand. Working with Mr. Elie Saab, who has inspired my passion for exceptional quality and craftsmanship, is truly humbling. This role is a significant milestone in my career, and I am excited to contribute to such a dynamic and enduring brand.”
Raphael is no stranger to the fashion spotlight. With her eponymous luxury handbag brand, she has carved out a niche with her striking silhouettes and statement pieces that resonate with modern women. As a sixth-generation member of the Swarovski family, she brings a rich heritage of craftsmanship and creativity, perfectly aligning with the values that define Elie Saab. This partnership promises to elevate the handbag category by emphasizing exceptional quality and thoughtful design, which are hallmarks of the Elie Saab ethos.
When asked about how the partnership came about, Raphael told us, “I have long admired Mr. Saab’s remarkable vision, his exceptional craftsmanship, and the meticulous attention to detail he brings to each creation. Our initial discussions about expanding the handbag category began last year, and continued this February in Paris. I was honored when Elie Jr. extended this extraordinary opportunity to me. After keeping this exciting project a secret for over nine months, I am thrilled to finally share it with the world.”
In her new role, Raphael will spearhead the creation of four ready-to-wear collections and two haute couture collections annually, with the inaugural collection set to debut at the Elie Saab Haute Couture Show in Paris in January 2025. Her focus will be on infusing each design with the brand’s core values while crafting a distinct identity for the handbag line that speaks to the modern woman’s sense of empowerment and individuality.
Speaking about maintaining the individuality of her namesake label and her designs are Elie Saab, Raphael told us, “The designs for Marina Raphael and Elie Saab will be inherently different, as each brand embodies a distinct vision. At Marina Raphael, we focus on architectural lines, structured silhouettes, and a bold interplay of contrasting materials that give each piece a sculptural, modern edge. In contrast, for Elie Saab, my vision centres on blending haute couture artistry with the ease of everyday luxury. Here, the focus is on distilling Elie Saab’s iconic elegance and grandeur into pieces that retain a sense of opulence while feeling effortlessly wearable. Each design for Elie Saab will transcend seasons while capturing a softer, more refined elegance.”
Elie Saab himself has long been celebrated for his ability to craft garments that embody glamour and sophistication, and this partnership with Marina Raphael promises to extend that legacy into the world of handbags. As both designers set their sights on the future, the fashion community eagerly anticipates how this collaboration will redefine luxury accessories.
Giving us a little insight into her first collection for the brand, Raphael said, “In my debut collection, anticipate a captivating fusion of elegance and boldness that merges sophistication with effortless versatility. Each piece reflects Elie Saab’s signature style, featuring a range of adaptable day-to-night designs. The silhouettes are instantly recognizable, striking a balance between structure and fluidity. Dazzling embellishments, including intricate crystal detailing, add a refined sparkle, allowing each piece to transition from day to night. This collection celebrates timeless beauty, inviting wearers to experience Elie Saab’s iconic elegance in a new light.”
With a focus on heritage, craftsmanship, and bold design, the partnership aims to produce handbags that are not just beautiful but also empowering—pieces that every woman will want to show off. In the fast-paced world of fashion, As we count the days down to her debut collection in Paris, the fashion world is eager to see how Marina Raphael will shape the next chapter of Elie Saab’s storied legacy.
