Lebanese Designer Hussein Bazaza Launches His Autumn/Winter 2019 Collection at Beirut’s Grand Factory
A former intern of Elie Saab, Hussein’s latest collection features plenty of layering, eccentric embroidery and statement shoulder pads
Lebanese designer Hussein Bazaza just launched his autumn/winter 2019 collection, his eighth collection at Beirut’s Grand Factory. It’s his night place where he and his friends enjoy a night out. Hussein strategically hosted his show at The Grand Factory because he wanted his family to see his world, and be able to showcase his work, the details, and the finishing of the collection there. “I wanted to have that contrast between my couture pieces and the industrial setting of the venue,” he said.
The invite-only event showcased dispersed mannequins wearing the new season around the venue’s main space. Guests were able to view the models and have an up close and personal view of every design. Hussein also unveiled his new handbag and jewelry lines, which were displayed in the center of the venue.
“This season has ready-to-wear and couture,” said the young designer, who interned for influential Lebanese designer, Elie Saab. “My inspiration came from all the women who inspired me from the beginning. I usually create fictional characters who inspire me. But for this season the inspiration came from my mum and grandmother- all the women who raised me and encouraged me to be a fashion designer.”
Hussein knew from an early age that he wanted to be a designer but his passion was originally in art. “I would just draw dresses but I didn’t know that I liked fashion. I didn’t follow it at the beginning. I just wanted to draw and sketch dresses all the time.” It is Elie Saab that Hussein looks up to, as he expressed, “I always love him forever. He’s a designer that we are very proud of in the Middle East.”
The collection highlights intricate details from Hussein’s previous collections, revamped and infused with superior couture touches. He has returned to his favoured unicorn and floral patterns in new methods and new embroidery techniques.
Talking fabrics, Hussein revealed that autumn and winter are his favorite seasons because of the versatility of using a wide array of fabrics. “I love to work with wool, cashmere and leather- and to merge them with lace, chiffon, and delicate fabrics. So, we have a mixture between see-through and sheer fabrics with very thick leather, wool, and cashmere fabrics as well.”
When asked what makes his designs different from other Lebanese designers, he said “I have a unique style. I mix fabrics and colours, and I have a unique way of mixing layering between couture and ready-to-wear in one collection.”
After the launch, guests were led through a hallway of lights, and transported into the Reunion Room, for a night of drinks and music.
Hussein Bazaza’s autumn/winter 2019 collection can be found online at, www.husseingbazaza.com