We’re still dreaming about all of these, years on.
Zuhair, Elie, Reem… you can always rely on a number of Middle Eastern designers to make an appearance at any awards shows.
And certain labels are guaranteed stalwarts of one prestigious red carpet in particular, year in, year out.
So, ahead of the upcoming Academy Awards (March 4, mark your diaries people), we’ve pulled together some of the most memorable Oscar gowns dreamt up by the region’s most creative talents.
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Angelina Jolie
For the 2014 Academy Awards, the Changeling star turned to Elie Saab for this champagne-hued gown that married ethereal femininity with a hit of glitz.
Kristen Stewart
The Twilight actress sported a strapless design by Beirut-born Reem Acra for the 2013 Oscars. Featuring tulle ruffles, intricate beading and a structured bodice, we’ve since spotted this number on many a bridal Pinterest board.
Mila Kunis
One of our all-time favourite awards gowns (by any designer) came courtesy of Elie Saab back in 2011. Mila Kunis wore this lilac floor-sweeper, with incredibly fine lacework and an expertly balanced use of pleating, that we’re still cooing over seven years later.
Miley Cyrus
The singer and actress relied on Zuhair Murad for her 2009 Academy Award gown, the scalloping on which we’ve never seen the likes of since. That skirt, with its measured use of sequins, is an actual piece of art.
Milla Jovovich
The Fifth Element star wore Lebanese couturier Saab at the 2012 Oscars, and this richly embellished gown is our favourite one-shoulder design we’ve seen on this particular red carpet. The way it heavily hangs just screams glamour, and the architectural shoulder adds a contemporary edge.
Halle Berry
When it comes to iconic Oscar outfits, is there any more memorable than this? We think not. This daringly embroidered Elie Saab number was worn by Berry as she picked up her Best Actress statue for Monster’s Ball in 2002, and we think it might have sparked the sheer-dress trend that’s still reigning today.
Jennifer Lopez
J. Lo and Zuhair Murad are a fashion match made in heaven, a fact proved true at the 2012 ceremony.
Angelina Jolie
It’s timelessly simple, but oh-so elegant. This strapless Saab number on Jolie at the 2009 awards is one of our most beloved looks from the actress, who jazzed up the classic silhouette with jaw-dropping emerald earrings.
Emma Stone
This chartreuse gown—also by Saab—stole the 2015 Oscars for us, with its striking hue, unique embellishment and fluidity in motion. Bonus marks for the old Hollywood waves and orange-red lip, too.
Sandra Bullock
This Saab gown from the 2013 ceremony, sported by The Blind Side star, is positively oozing Gatsby vibes, with a refined fusion of sparkle and sophistication.
Images: Getty
