PASHION’s editor in chief Susan Sabet met up with Lebanese, Jad Ghandour. The sleek and charming couturier talked about his career, life and ultimately his latest collection “Back to Black”.
He made international headlines when he debuted at New York Fashion Week in February 2010. Just before graduating from Esmod Beirut in 2009 where he studied under Elie Saab, he launched his first collection in 2008 at the Sursock Palace in Beirut.
Among his illustrious clients are members of the British Royal family. He was commissioned to create dresses for Princess Beatrice of York, Princess Eugenie of York and Sarah Duchess of York for the royal wedding of Princess Eugenie, which was the first time ever a Lebanese designer was commissioned to dress members of the British Royal family. He fondly remembers the experience of visiting the royal places for the fittings and ultimately delivering the final dresses. No wonder his London showroom became a favorite hunting ground for London’s chic set.
A man with a big heart, Jad also gives back to the community when needed. Following the disastrous explosion in Beirut where up to 300,000 people lost their homes and livelihoods he pledged to donate 100% of the profit from the present and future orders of the “Back To Black” collection towards the Lebanese emergency unit to contribute towards street debris removal, home restoration, providing food and medical aids in the affected area.
Himself a protégé of Elie Saab he knows the importance of mentorship for emerging talents. His advice: “Keep Going!” He also stresses the importance of formal education. “As in every job you need to know your trade inside out.” His secret to stay ahead in the game: “Know your client. If she feels comfortable, pretty and sexy in your dresses she will come back!”
The “Back to Black” collection combines all his signature traits: drama, glamour, sexiness and femme fatale. While his inspiration often comes from events happening in the world, this collection is a nod to his debut collection that was titled “Noir”. It’s been a long successful road since then!
Discover the “Back to Black” collection
Jad Ghandour’s collections including his bridal collections are available at his Beirut Atelier and London showroom!
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