For the Elie Saab Pre-Fall 2018 collection, the brand takes the wild out of the west with this modern tribute to the nomadic and picturesque Sonora region.

Just like a rare flowering season in an arid desert, the collection starts with an elegant display of deep burgundy, black and white floral patterns, in the form of intricate embroidery, that mesh organically with black satin outlines.

Whisper-thin lace & thick laser cut-out leather, with ‘western-like’ embossed motifs, combine to create a perfect and elaborate dance as full looks, or as inserts on key pieces. While furtive feathers, on ankle-length skirts and furry jackets flutter effortlessly in the desert winds, a series of especially designed butterflies, hearts and sparrows, appear as badges and appliqués, bringing splashes of vibrant colour and touches of pastel to a collection otherwise rooted in black. Prints also leave a strong impact, with tweed trompe l’oeil paired with tweed fabric, and Mexican canvas-inspired fabrics that find their twins in the form of colourful sequin dresses.

This season sees the introduction of the Elie Saab crest, which is the result of the letters “E” and “S” intertwining to create a floral-like emblem inspired from the brands core aesthetics. Making its first major appearance into the brand’s collections, the crest features as a golden appliqué on T-shirts, printed or engraved on buttons, and is even moulded into a metallic armour wrap-around on leather clutches.

Other standout leather clutches feature belt buckles that take their cue from authentic saddle reins, while small studded saddle-bags with fringes glimmer and sway in the distance. We also discover a series of slick and smooth plexi-glass minaudière designs.

Boots, sandals, pumps & heeled mules come in leather or suede, and are embellished, from front to side and back of heel, with studs an wild west-inspired python an leather motif inserts.