georges_hobeikaHCF0201_ciPARIS, Jul 10, 2002/ FW/ — In a sign that bodes well for the future of Couture, there have been two simultaneous sets of shows this week in Paris.

One is the official list, the calendar organized of the Fédération Française de la Couture, which includes the main houses, as well as those who have been specifically invited.

The unofficial list is a shadow set of shows by young designers drawn to the capital of women’s fashion.

Georges Hobeika, a young and talented Lebanese designer is one of those who falls into the second category, and he showed Tuesday in the Louvre.

The collection, which was entitled “Initiales”, incorporated a glistening sequined look, trimmed in fur.

The show was fast paced, and in common with the men’s shows of last week, incorporated a more modern look.

According to program notes, Georges Hobeika works in his atelier transforming pearls, sequins, crystal, cabochons and anything else that shines into a mixture that crosses East and West. Some of his work more resembled a jeweled tapestry, than clothing.

His favorite colors are rose, mauve, lilac and fuchsia, as was evident by the large squares placed on the runway.

Unfortunately, the spotlighting used on the models was so bright, and the collection so glittering, that it was like staring into a strobe light.

There were lace dresses embroidered in crystal, leather jackets trimmed in fur, mousseline, silk and satin sewn into blouses, and gowns.

It is a style which runs completely contrary to the expression “Less is more”, and to prove the point, the show ended with no less than six different wedding dresses.

The collection may be addressed to a woman of natural elegance, but it would appear that she would be most happy at dinner at the Ritz.

Photos by Javier Mateo

Paris Haute Couture Fall 2002