Elie Saab has masterminded the skill of red carpet couture with celebrities now flocking to him for an award season sartorial hit. At his spring/summer 2012 show in Paris, Q+A UK was drawn into a trance by Saab’s elegant craftsmanship as he presented over forty dresses in varying soft hues and with distinctive details.

Pastel shades made for a candy collection of floor sweeping evening gowns and statement-making mini dresses. The Lebanese designer opened the show with ivory looks embellished with intricate bead detail. Elegant shapes were constructed out of long sleeves, clinched waists and low necklines. As the collection progressed, the skirts developed in volume. The lightest details complemented each of the dresses in a delicate way, which created a soft feminine effect.

Lady-like lace was a key feature within the collection, appearing sheer on a number of the dresses its presence accentuated the elegance and grace of each look. Saab distinguished each of the candy coloured dresses through varying necklines, sleeves, and trains. The embellishment and clever embroidery ensured that each of the gowns appeared weightless as they sashayed down the runway.

It was refreshing to see shorter dresses amidst the prolific array of eveningwear. Sweet and feminine, in parts the looks became seductive and suggestive with leggy dresses, the occasional plunging neckline and sheer fabrics. Saab is consistent in his POV and never over-sexualises his dresses. The softness of shades, the elegant shapes and the clever embroidery ensured elegance was maintained throughout the collection. The closing wedding dress sealed the show with Saab’s signature gracious touch but with a little twist, a white gown with a pink flowers and veil. Overtly feminine, this dress belongs to the girl who has always dreamed of a fairytale wedding.