“As if lifted from a palace along the banks of the Bosporus, Ottoman motifs subtly infuse the collection with imperial splendor,” reads the opening introduction to Elie Saab Fall 2012 couture collection, In Constantinople’s Wake. We’d braced ourselves for a thoroughly decadent affair but still can’t help but sigh at the sight of each of these lovely gowns. Above, organza ball gown wedding dress embossed with gold brocade leaves; below, gilded gown with illusion long sleeves.
Powder blue long sleeve beaded sheath gown with bare back.
Golden girls — belted sheath dresses with a variety of sleeves and necklines.
More gorgeous Elie Saab couture gowns on the next page.