Monday December 23rd, 2024
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Monochrome Monday: The Gold Flake Edition

From ancient Egyptians to Roman Empire royalty, gold has always existed as a symbol of luxury, and now it’s serving the same purpose for high-fashion houses.

Mai El Mokadem

Monochrome Monday: The Gold Flake Edition

Gold has long been linked to opulence and luxury, with its association to the sun, from the ancient Egyptians, who viewed it as a symbol of immortality, to the Inca civilisation in 13th-16th century South America, who believed it to be the sweat of the gods. 

This precious metal has adorned royalty and nobility throughout history, with crowns, sceptres, and ceremonial garments often crafted in gold, like the imperial crown of the Roman Empire, made of 22-carat gold. 

Beyond its secular significance, gold has also held a prominent place in religious traditions, used to embellish sacred objects and structures like the Church of La Compañía in Quito, covered entirely in gold sheets.

In the realm of fashion, gold has been equally important, translated into rich fabrics and dyes. The Art Deco period witnessed a resurgence of gold's popularity, embracing it as a symbol of glamour and modernity in flapper dresses featuring gold embellishments and accessories. 

Today, gold appears in everything from haute couture to runways, with houses like Chanel and Versace often including gold in their collections, such as Chanel’s Pre-Fall 2019 collection and Versace’s 1997 Couture Fashion Show, emphasising its association with high fashion. Regional designers continue to experiment with the colour, incorporating it into metallic fabrics, intricate embroideries, and bold accessories.

Nadine Merabi | Hallie Gold Jumpsuit

This gold-toned jumpsuit features a halter neckline and corset boning for a flattering silhouette. With shimmering sequins on a sheer mesh base, the design is accentuated by delicate ball trim and stylish cutouts.

Nader Atef Jewellery | Gold Figaro Chain Necklaces

A shimmering stack of gold necklaces is just what you need to elevate any outfit. These necklaces from Naj Jewellery are a cascade of chains and pendants, ready to glisten in the sunlight.

Georges Hobeika | Gold Goddess of Love Halter Top

Inspired by Aphrodite, this ready-to-wear top from Georges Hobeika embodies the spirit of a goddess with a halter neckline and gold flower constructions at the hem.

Rami Al Ali | Look 13 in Spring ‘24 Couture Collection

This shimmering glossy golden dress is bejewelled with silver crystal embellishments, combining gold and silver seamlessly.

Sara Mrad | Handcrafted Golden Seashell Earrings

These large, handcrafted seashell earrings made from gold glisten with crystals, shining on the surface of the intricately designed shells.

Semsem | Pleated Gold Sequin Gown

The glamorous Semsem gown is adorned with a metallic gold sheen, a pleated design, and a dynamic silhouette. The excess, draping fabric makes a statement, flowing with every move.

Lola K | Bars and Pearls Mules

The delicate pearl ankle strap is a dainty finishing touch that elevates the overall look of the shoe, perfectly complementing the beautiful gold of the mules.

Sabry Marouf | Mineral Tut Bag in Gold Leaf

This custom-formulated plexiglass bag is worked from a plexiglass liquid form all the way to its final gold-flaked shape. The handmade process showcases Egyptian culture at its finest, celebrating heritage with an ancient Egyptian material—gold leaf.

Eli Abou Fayssal | Look 26 in OLÉ SS’24 Collection

This gold dress is lavishly wrapped with cascading silk thread fringes along the sides, creating a powerful yet softly feminine allure.

Manar Lakhtieh | Al Tair Handbag

The Al Tair Handbag is fabricated with gold-plated brass and adorned with glistening gems. Each gemstone possesses a distinct texture, transforming the bag into a complement for any ensemble.