Marina Raphael aims to "leave a lasting impression" as the new artistic and design director of handbags at Elie Saab, crystallising her Swarovski-inherited design sensibility in the couture house's latest venture
There is an undeniable synergy between couturier Elie Saab's glamorous gowns and Marina Raphael's sparkling handbags influenced by her Swarovski heritage. A synergy that today crystallised into an exciting collaboration, as Raphael took the helm of the couturier's handbag line.
For Raphael, Elie Saab has always been an aspiration. "To me, the brand represents the pinnacle of sophistication. Mr Saab’s vision has always been extraordinary; the way he brings couture to life with such precision and creativity is nothing short of inspiring," she says, pinpointing how seeing his creations glide down the runway is an otherworldly experience. "The graceful silhouettes, intricate detailing and the sense of magic they exuded," she muses. "Joining Elie Saab now feels like a dream realised, an opportunity to contribute to a legacy I have long respected."
As the new artistic and design director of handbags, Raphael intends to make a “lasting impression” in what she describes as a “defining moment” in her career. “I aspire to build a handbag line that seamlessly integrates with the brand’s couture heritage, yet stands on its own as a distinctive, iconic category within the luxury market,” she explains. She envisions the line evolving into a series of collections that blend elegance with functionality, offering pieces that enhance every facet of a woman’s life — from daily sophistication to statement-making moments.
Marina Raphael is best known for her structured, sparkling designs. Photo: Marina Raphael
Raphael’s design ethos draws deeply from her love for contrasts and meticulous detail. “I’m captivated by the beauty of pairing structured, harder materials like metal and plexiglass with softer textures like raffia and leather, creating a dynamic balance that gives each piece unique character,” she says.
This approach, along with her preference for bold, recognisable shapes, will be woven into the Elie Saab collections. “I’ve developed a distinctive hallmark for Elie Saab that will serve as a signature for the handbag line,” she shares. Though keeping it under wraps for now, Raphael promises it will capture the brand’s timeless elegance and artistry in a way that’s instantly recognisable.
In her new role at Elie Saab, Raphael will design and present four ready-to-wear collections and two haute couture collections annually. The first collection will debut at the Elie Saab Haute Couture Show in Paris, scheduled for January 2025.