Middle East Women Keep Haute Couture Alive

Zuhair Murad, Haute Couture 2011-2012

According to a recent article in the London Telegraph, the business of Haute Couture fashion is surviving because of the lavish taste of Middle East socialites.  These new clients are demanding garments that nobody else will be wearing.  One woman named Reem, who is a frequent shopper and daughter of a construction tycoon was quoted as saying, "I want to be different from others.  What I want is unique pieces, extravagant and chic. I do not want to pay 5,000 or 6,000 euros for a dress, as it happened to me with a Pucci outfit recently, and see it on somebody else the same evening."  

The economy has been deteriorating around the world and while the rest of the world is looking for affordable fashion finds there are women who are still wealthy enough to purchase these dresses.  They come from countries like Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Dubai and Saudi Arabia.  Couture dressed from designers like Chanel, Dior and Valentino can cost $75, 000 for one item.  Simon Lock, a creative director for Dubai Fashion Week says that some women are known to buy at least 20 dresses each season.  With wedding season designers can expect to be very busy.  Most receptions are quite elaborate with thousands invited.  

Elie Saab, Fall/Winter 2011/2012

Sources:  Yahoo News, The Telegraph