Zuhair Murad Pre Fall 2023
Zuhair Murad has gone down the rabbit hole this season, with a fanciful collection inspired by “Alice in Wonderland.”
It brought out the Lebanese designer’s playful side, full of bright colors and bold prints in a range of exuberant Dorothy Draper-style sorbet shades of pinks and greens.
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The first looked featured playing card motifs on pajama style suit sets, sundresses, and belted shirts. The print makes them feel looser and the brights bounce off one another.
A one-shoulder cape with a black and gold floral print and dramatic draping was another standout. Strong shoulders on duchesse satin gowns also proved his skill with tailoring.
This season’s designer uses heavier velvets and two-toned gowns. The black deep-V-V velvet bodice features a full skirt and the heart-and-spade motif is translated into gold, black, and lavender brocade. Little black classics have a touch of magic with tiny Wonderland tokens in the form of buttons, bows, or pockets that are heart- or diamond-shaped. Although the theme is charmingly simple, more elaborate appliques make it seem overwhelming. For example, a bustier on a white column gown.
Murad has retained the ponchos and caftans he began using a few seasons back, giving them a touch of luxury comfort dressing.
He is now experimenting with different collections and entering home design. The Murad-branded Elegance Tower is currently under construction in Dubai. The apartments in the 25-story tower will have hidden doors, adding an element of “Alice” into his interiors.
Murad has continued his streak of red carpet wins, dressing Jessica Chastain in an off-the-shoulder gown for the Oscars’ Annual Governors Awards last November. The actress had the piece from spring 2020 for over a decade and was waiting for the right occasion.
This collection includes many pieces that will quickly become classics.
Launch Gallery Zuhair Murad Pre-Fall 2023