The 74th Golden Globe Awards took place yesterday in LA, and it’s fair to say another kind of LA dominated the night. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone’s La La Land won every award it was up for (including best actor and actress nods for the pair) but when it came to the red carpet, many stars were looking further afield for sartorial expertise. And there’s one country in particular that seems to be churning out kings and queens of couture faster than any other. Reams of celebrities plumped for show-stopping gowns from Lebanese designers at the awards, with lashings of lace, tonnes of tulle and gemstones galore from labels including Zuhair Murad and Elie Saab.
Reem Acra
The Beirut-born designer, who rose to fame thanks to her eponymous bridal line, dressed Bridesmaids star Kristen Wiig and Gone Girl actress Emily Ratajkowski.
We particularly love the demure high neck, fluttery sleeves and gently floor-sweeping cut of the lacy gown, while the buttercup-hued silk and interwoven bejewelled necktie of Ratajkowski’s number really helped her stand out on the red carpet. (Well, to be honest, with that face she doesn’t need much help turning heads).
Want to get the Golden Globes look yourself? You can find Reem Acra at Harvey Nichols Dubai, and at shopbop.com.
Zuhair Murad
This Ras Baalbek-born designer has long been a go-to for starlets when it comes to award shows and premieres, and last night was no different. Elsa Pataky, Tracee Ellis Ross (who scooped best actress in a TV comedy or musical), Sofia Vergara, Olivia Culpo and Lily Collins were all decked out by the label, and it’s almost impossible to pick a favourite amongst the four.
However the details that most caught our eye were the sculptural fit of Ross’ strapless ankle-grazer, and the blush-pink hue of Collins’ voluminous gown.
Want to get the Golden Globes look yourself? You can find Zuhair Murad at Harvey Nichols Dubai, and at Bloomingdale’s.
Georges Chakra
The Beirut-based haute couture creator dressed Veep star Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and we adore the split one-shoulder cut and figure-skimming silhouette.
Elie Saab
He’s long been known as the Middle East’s most famous fashion export, and the Lebanese designer didn’t disappoint at this year’s Globes. Saab kitted out Total Recall actress Jessica Biel in a mind-bending printed gown, featuring a rather daring neckline and bucolic embroidery.
Want to get the Golden Globes look yourself? You can find Elie Saab at Boutique 1.
Rani Zakhem
E! host Giuliana Rancic opted for a diaphanous metallic floral number by this lesser-known designer, who was born in Lebanon and raised in Kenya. We particularly love the way the romantic bottom half is paired against the sportier halter neckline.
And a special mention should go to…
Naeem Khan
He may not be Lebanese, but this Mumbai-born designer, who dressed Mandy Moore and Gina Rodriguez, is a favourite of Jordan’s Queen Noor. Brownie points go to the Gatsby-esque fringing, and the delicate floor-length cape.
