Elie Saab, the renowned Lebanese designer, has announced a new addition to its team, Greek-Austrian designer Marina Raphael.
- Known for her own luxury handbag brand, Raphael brings fresh creative vision to Elie Saab’s handbag division.
- She is appointed as the artistic and design director, tasked with bringing innovative collections to the luxury fashion house.
- Raphael will develop four ready-to-wear and two haute couture handbag collections every year.
- Her debut work is scheduled to be showcased at the Elie Saab Haute Couture Show in Paris in January 2025.
Elie Saab, a leading name in the Lebanese fashion industry, has hired acclaimed accessories designer Marina Raphael to oversee its handbag division. Raphael’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Elie Saab’s luxury accessory line as she takes on the role of artistic and design director. Raphael is well-regarded in the fashion industry for her innovative designs and luxury craftsmanship, making her a fitting choice for Elie Saab’s ambitious vision.
Marina Raphael, who hails from a distinguished family background as a sixth-generation member of the Swarovski family, launched her eponymous handbag brand in 2017. Her creations have attracted a host of celebrity admirers, including Jennifer Lopez, Katie Holmes, and Olivia Palermo. Raphael’s experience collaborating with her family on crystal-embellished handbags adds a unique dimension to her design expertise.
In her new role at Elie Saab, Raphael will design and present four ready-to-wear handbag collections and two haute couture collections annually. This ambitious schedule reflects Elie Saab’s pursuit of expanding its repertoire and enhancing its position in the luxury accessories market. The first showcase of Raphael’s creative direction is slated for January 2025, during the Elie Saab Haute Couture Show in Paris, a major event in the fashion calendar.
Upon accepting her role, Raphael expressed her excitement about joining Elie Saab, stating, “I am honoured to join the Elie Saab brand as the artistic and design director of handbags. The opportunity to contribute to this dynamic and enduring brand, under the creative direction of Elie Saab and the leadership of CEO Elie Saab Jnr, represents a significant milestone in my career.”
Elie Saab Jnr, CEO of the brand, remarked on the alignment between Raphael’s strengths and the brand’s vision. He conveyed confidence in her ability to innovate and lead in the handbag category, noting, “We are excited to pursue the handbag category with [Raphael], whose impressive track record and proven ability to translate the brand’s vision will enhance our potential for success.”
Marina Raphael’s appointment is poised to bring a wave of creativity and expertise to Elie Saab, as her new collections are highly anticipated.
