Nature is often times the underlying theme throughout Georges Hobeika’s collections. Each season, the Lebanese Maison takes inspiration from the beauty of our vast universe and this Spring/Summer 2023 collection was no exception. Co-Creative Directors Georges and Jad Hobeika tapped into the beauty and grace of flamingos, fit for the modern women who flock together “to cultivate their own exotic dream world” for their SS23 ready-to-wear collection, presented in Paris this week.
While flamingos are known to be pink, they aren’t in Hobeika’s fantastical world. Against a backdrop of giant blue flamingos, models descended down the runway in bold and modern silhouettes, channeling myriad different eras. From draped chiffon column dresses to spaghetti-strap dresses and ultra graphic pantsuits, this season, the Hobeika woman exudes simple elegance through ready-to-wear garments made from couture fabrics and techniques.
There’s an undeniably fresh perspective present at the Hobeika Maison. Ever since George Hobeika’s son, Jad, was appointed as co-creative director, a reinvigorated woman has been introduced — one that is younger, daring and isn’t afraid to take control. This collection exhibited a liberating mood at the intersection of glam and pop. Whether it be through color-block constructions, the mix of acid hues with classic gold, or ensembles with flamingo motifs.
Powerful freedom
Along the lineup of asymmetrical dresses, this season, the Lebanese Maison experimented with its design style, bridging athleisure and couture. Sexy bodices and embroidered swimwear-inspired pieces that were paired with skirts and capes, these unconventional pairings reaffirmed that the Hobeika woman of today is commanding the attention of every room or beach that she visits.
Back in July, we were introduced to the daring Hobeika man for the first time during their Autumn/water 2022-2023 couture show. Their man tackles all things associated with toxic masculinity, and rather exudes a sense of powerful freedom. He’s one that likes to challenge the borders of societal fashion. Among their ready-to-wear lineup this season, a range of men’s looks were also presented for the first time. A modern casual attitude mixed with the Maison’s couture techniques such as encrusted crystal details were among those that stood out.
If you’re a Hobeika woman, the world is about to understand what that means. The Maison’s signature monogram took center stage once more with a series of intricate beaded motifs and embellished looks through a range of accessories, including their new baguette style bag, tulle gloves, shoes and even socks. The stand out pieces, however, were the disc-shaped visors in graphic laser-cut and graphic hats, which empowered the Hobeika woman as she towered over the runway.
