Abu Dhabi, UAE, 15th March, 2007: Charbel Karam, the youngest ever fashion designer to showcase a collection at The Bride Show Abu Dhabi, wowed the exhibition crowds today with his couture collection bringing elegant European glamour with a modern Oriental cut to the show’s catwalks.
At only twenty three years of age, Lebanese born Karam started his fashion career five years ago studying privately with prestigious fashion tutors in London, absorbing everything there is to know about couture fashion design. But it was after landing a once-in-a lifetime apprenticeship under leading international designer Julian Macdonald that he truly began to hone a talent for couture design and his passion for fashion was firmly established.
Following his training in this esteemed apprenticeship, Karam chose the UAE as the location for his first house of couture, Chanella by Charbel Karam, to be closer to the women he loves designing for and his chosen muse - the Arabic woman. Described by Karam as “elegant, immaculately groomed and a keen follower of fashion”, he names Arabic women as best reflecting the Chanella brand.
Taking inspiration from leading international fashion designers Valentino and Gaultier, the collection, entitled ‘Soul of the Desert’ saw an impressive array of couture occasion dresses and wedding gowns which echoed the signature Chanella touch of graceful simplicity coupled with intricate accentuation and design.
The series of glamorous formal evening gowns in warm hues of golds and browns reflected the warmth and intensity of the desert, while the shimmering wedding gowns in whites and silvers made an ideal choice for a modern yet classically timeless bride.
Karam expects The Bride Show Abu Dhabi to provide him with many new clients and loyal followers of the Chanella brand. “It has evolved from an exhibition for brides-to-be into a sort of ‘fashion week’”, he commented. “We showed our first collection here last year and based on the overwhelming interest from not only brides-to-be but women who are passionate about fashion and design, we decided we couldn’t miss out on showing our collection this time.”
With one day remaining of fashion shows and demonstrations unveiling both traditional and modern bridal looks as portrayed by a cluster of leading names, and many of the over 175 exhibitors offering exclusive discounts, The Bride Show Abu Dhabi provides the perfect venue for all women who enjoy fashion and beauty.
Visitors will still have the opportunity to seek advice and gather inspiration from demonstrations taking place throughout Friday, while competitions offering luxury jewelry from Paris Gallery and the newly launched Scent of the Bride Show will continue to take place.
Tomorrow’s show will be open from 3pm-10.00pm.
Fashion Show Line-up for the rest of the event
Friday 16th March
4:00 – 4:30 Old house Heritage Fashion Show
5:30 – 6:00 Sweet Lady Fashion Show
7:30 – 8:00 Rony Richa Fashion Show
8:30 – 9:00 Nicolas Baaklini Hair Demo
