For Elie Saab Haute Couture Fall-Winter 2026-27, the fantasy does not end with the gown. Created for The Ball of Untamed Dreams, the collection’s handbags extend its surreal atmosphere into a series of sculptural objects shaped by movement, luminosity and meticulous craftsmanship.
The designs begin with a vintage-inflected silhouette, reworked through elongated east-west proportions that give the bags a distinctly contemporary attitude. Soft suede is folded and moulded into architectural forms, creating a tension between suppleness and structure. The result feels organic yet controlled, echoing the couture collection’s wider exploration of metamorphosis.
Across the surface, hand-applied Swarovski crystals catch and refract the light, introducing a sense of movement even when the bag is still. Their multidimensional shimmer reflects the changing colours and dreamlike illusions seen throughout the runway collection, turning each piece into something closer to a miniature couture sculpture than a conventional accessory.
Material plays a central role in establishing emotion. The softness of suede, the brilliance of crystal and the precision of polished metal are brought together to create depth and atmosphere. Yet despite the experimentation, the designs remain rooted in the codes of Elie Saab: femininity, glamour and an exacting approach to finish.
Rather than treating handbags as a final addition, the Maison develops them alongside the couture looks. Silhouette, proportion, leather, hardware and embellishment are considered in relation to the complete ensemble, allowing each piece to feel naturally connected to the collection’s narrative.
The process begins with structure. Once the architectural presence of the bag has been established, the proportions are refined through repeated development. Colours and materials are then selected to correspond with the couture palette, while clasps, curves and crystal placement are adjusted until the object achieves the desired balance.
This sense of harmony is essential. The handbags are designed to reflect the emotion of the garments without overwhelming them. A subtle curve, the polished finish of a fastening or the way a crystal catches the light becomes enough to enrich a look while preserving its overall fluidity.
