It feels like just yesterday that Marina Raphael stepped into her new role as Artistic & Design Director of Handbags at ELIE SAAB. But here we are, and her debut collection has already landed, proving that time really does fly when big things are happening. The Pre-Fall/Fall Winter 2025 Handbag Collection is a meticulous and daring lineup that feels both quintessentially ELIE SAAB and undeniably hers.
At the heart of it all is The Wave. A subtle nod to the letter “S” in SAAB, yes, but also a powerful emblem of evolution. It’s a symbol of movement, strength, and staying grounded while embracing change, making it a story of the modern woman told through curves, lines, and textures.
Take the Iris Top Handle Bag for example. Available in a palette as versatile as the women it’s designed for, the bag comes in nude leather for quiet confidence, emerald embossed leather for bold elegance, and champagne studded leather that’s pure red-carpet energy. You can’t miss the attention to detail—gold metallic handles that feel like sculpture, magnetic closures that are satisfyingly secure, and crossbody straps that don’t just function but enhance the overall aesthetic.
Then there’s the Electra Clutch, a moodier, more dramatic counterpart. The black studded leather version with gunmetal accents is practically a love letter to after-dark glamour, while the understated black leather version whispers quiet power. The details matter here—Swarovski crystals, hand-stitched finishes, and hardware that’s as much a part of the design as the leather itself.
The pieces are the chicest companions for women who transition between boardrooms, dinners, and stolen moments of quietude.
Beyond the bags themselves, the collection is a celebration of contrasts: heritage meets modernity, boldness meets minimalism, and form meets function. The interplay is most evident in pieces like the Artemis Top Handle Bag, with its champagne Swarovski crystal ombré embellishments.
In case you were looking to elevate your handbag rotation this year, you know where to look…
The collection is available now at www.ELIESAAB.com and select stores worldwide.
