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Beirut, the wounded city, rises from its ashes through art and creation. Emblematic of this resilience, Lebanese designer Rabih Kayrouz chose to present his new Spring-Summer 2024 collection in his Gemmayzé district workshop, beautifully restored after being devastated by the Beirut port explosion on August 4, 2020. An emotionally charged event that marks the 25th anniversary of his fashion house and testifies to his unwavering attachment to his hometown.
Rabih Kayrouz, a pivotal figure in international fashion, has made his mark with talent and creativity. Leaving for Paris at the age of 16 to study fashion, he opened his own house in 2009, while maintaining a deep connection to Beirut.
“Sometimes we don’t have a choice. I am home, here,” he shared with AFP, discussing his decision to stay and rebuild despite the trauma of the explosion, during which he was seriously injured in the head while in his workshop.
It is in this same place, miraculously restored thanks to the determination of his team, that Rabih Kayrouz now welcomes his loyal clients. “To be very honest, it was my team that pushed me,” he admits emotionally. “It was my team who cleaned up the debris (…), maybe if I were alone, I wouldn’t have returned” to Lebanon. This confession highlights the importance of human connections and solidarity in the darkest times.
On the second floor of this traditional building with graceful arches, Rabih Kayrouz, in a white Mao collar shirt, personally serves verrines of pomegranates — a symbol of his house — and almonds to his clients, who have come to discover his new collection.
Shades of yellow and blue dominate, expressing “joy, color,” but also “respect for the cut, respect for the woman, respect for her body,” emphasizes the designer.
This intimate presentation reflects Rabih Kayrouz’s desire to move away from large shows to favor more authentic moments. “I no longer want a show. I no longer want a lot of spectacles. I like things more human, more normal,” he shares, marking a new chapter in his creative journey.
The 25 years that have passed since his debut seem to have “gone too quickly,” but Rabih Kayrouz looks to the future with hope and passion. Asked about his plans, he responds with touching sincerity: “I would like to continue to have the chance to practice this profession and especially (…) to nurture this little boy inside me, who still dreams.”
Through this presentation marked by resilience and joy, Rabih Kayrouz proves that art and beauty can triumph over the worst trials. His restored workshop, his new collection vibrant with colors, and his steadfast attachment to Beirut are all symbols of hope for a city rising again, propelled by the creativity and talent of its children. A story of passion, courage, and dreams, reminiscent of the “little boy” who, 25 years after his debut, continues to infuse his energy and vision into international fashion from the beating heart of Beirut.
Bélinda Ibrahim with AFP
