Monday December 23rd, 2024
Copied

Styled Archives: The Elissa Edition

This week, we’re sending a love letter to the Lebanese queen of heartbreak pop herself.

Ziyad El-Helbawy

With the release of Elissa’s Netflix documentary, ‘It’s OK’, which presented an intimate account of the Lebanese superstar’s life and a personal introspection on her path to stardom, Elissa quickly ran back to our minds and hearts - although she never really left in the first place.

From the very first minute we laid eyes (and ears) on Elissa Khoury, our personal trajectories were forever altered, and no, that isn't hyperbolic. Think of it this way - how many times have you pictured yourself walking down the aisle listening to 'Aa Baly Habibi?' How many road trips did you take where 'Halet Hob' just played on repeat on the car radio? Weren't there countless times when you found yourself religiously chanting '3adé 3adé'?

Truth be told, Elissa is indeed the queen of Arab pop. The first to receive the World Music Award for Best Selling Middle Eastern Artist in 2005 - later receiving it twice again, mind you - Elissa has become one of the Arab world's leading names, and justifiably so. Throughout the years, Elissa has garnered much attention, and for this week's edition of Styled Archives, we're taking a look at some of the times Elissa left her mark.

With Beyoncé, Pink, and Britney Spears

2004

Standing right next to Queen B, Pink and Britney Spears, the Lebanese megastar wore a stunning floor-length white gown.

‘Hobbak Wajja3’ Music Video

2004

Giving 14 year old Elissa stans baby fever, the star sparkled with joy on the set of the ‘Hobbak Wajja3’ music video in several comfy casual fits.

With Amr Diab

2002

Receiving an honorary award in Dubai alongside industry colleague - and icon in his own right - Amr Diab, the star wore a simple off shoulder satin dress with a thigh slit not even Angelina could muster.

Vogue Eyewear Campaign

2008

Elissa took center stage in the 2008 Play Everyday Vogue eyewear campaign, transporting us to an era when twilight still held its natural allure – before the social media frenzy engulfed our lives – and as Beyoncé's 'Single Ladies' began its meteoric rise. Also, this is camp.

With Bon Jovi

2005

This is not Elissa taking a selfie with Bon Jovi; no, this is Bon Jovi taking a selfie with Elissa. Backstage at the 2005 edition of LA’s World Music Awards, these two stars captured a selfie for the ages.

Photoshoot

1990s

Rocking 90s eyebrows and nude lips, a young and stunning Elissa posed for a beachside portrait, radiating star power in a simple white tank top.

Lebanese Singing Competition

1990s

During a pop performance at a singing competition in Beirut, Elissa donned a striking traditional ensemble, featuring a black vest and flared lace sleeves.

‘Ayshalak’ Music Video

2002

A music video that encapsulates the essence of the early 2000s music industry, Elissa's 'Ayshalak' music video showcased her in an array of stunning outfits.

World Music Awards

2005

While there certainly must have been a contingency plan for those backup dancers, Elissa undeniably stole the show at the 2005 WMAs in a light blue gown with a bedazzled bodice. Oh, and is Paula Abdul a fan? You bet.

At Elie Saab’s Haute Couture Ball

2005

That, ladies and gentlemen, is what you would call a vintage serve. Business on the outside, VSFS runway model on the inside, and full-on icon all over.