Elie Saab Names Marina Raphael As Artistic Director For Handbag Line

Marina Raphael, founder and creative director of her eponymous handbag and accessories brand, has been named Elie Saab’s newest artistic director for the couture house's handbag line.

Marking this exciting new chapter, Raphael will focus on bringing Elie Saab’s core values to the forefront, while simultaneously strengthening the handbag line’s identity. With an emphasis on timeless designs and exceptional craftsmanship, inherent in the brand’s DNA, Raphael will play a pivotal role in shaping the expansion of this category.

Recognized as one of the new generation of rising artistic talents in the industry thanks to her highly popular accessories brand, Marina Raphael, Raphael has been focusing on building a heritage brand of her own, creating legacy pieces that defines the modern day luxury handbags. A sixth-generation member of the Swarovski family, Raphael solidified her brand’s power player position with a series of collaborations with tastemakers in the industry, and has mastered the sweet spot of timelessness, trend, and unparalleled quality that became synonymous to her design.

Despite the difference in design aesthetics, Raphael says both brands share a “deep commitment to quality and craftsmanship — selecting only the finest materials and ensuring that every seam and stitch meets exacting standards,” and that her vision for the Elie Saab handbag line is to bring to the forefront ornate, intricate details that remain true to the brand’s rich heritage and DNA.

Raphael’s fresh perspective combined with Elie Saab’s long-established traditions might just be the winning formula consumers need, in an economic downturn where the luxury sector continues to suffer. “Marina brings an exceptional blend of technical expertise and creative vision to the Elie Saab handbag line,” when asked about the new partnership, Elie Saab Jr. says. “Her proven ability to craft handbags with both sophistication and functionality complements the Elie Saab aesthetic seamlessly. Working alongside Mr. Saab, she has a unique opportunity to create designs that embody elegance while resonating with our clientele’s lifestyle and expectations.”

Raphael agrees, adding that she’s the most excited about delving into an array of craftsmanship techniques Elie Saab is so known for. “The opportunity to explore its archives, uncovering stories and inspirations that have shaped its identity, fills me with anticipation.”

In her new role at Elie Saab, the newly appointed Artistic Director will be responsible for delivering four ready-to-wear collections and two haute couture collections on an annual basis.

Creating ten collections a year for both Elie Saab and Marina Raphael is certainly a challenge, but Raphael says she has unwavering confidence in her exceptional team and their collective ability to bring her vision to life. “While my own brand will continue to evolve and grow, my focus is currently devoted to expanding Elie Saab’s handbag category, crafting standout pieces that embody the brand’s elegance and artistry. I am always open to new opportunities and working with talented, like-minded creatives, so who knows what the future has to hold.”

Raphael’s first collection for Elie Saab is set to debut at the Elie Saab Haute Couture Show in Paris, scheduled for January 2025. Whilst we still need to wait to see the first drop, Raphael says the silhouettes are designed to be “instantly recognizable” with the collection to feature a “versatile selection of day-to-night pieces, including beautifully embellished dazzling crystal creations.”