MOKing Fashion: A new concept in design and retailing hits the Beirut fashion scene.

A fashion scene recently unfolded at the Theatre Monot in Beirut, as statuesque models stepped forward from behind a backdrop of modernist buildings. Each coiffed and made up to resemble modern-day Grecian goddesses, the models emerged from the darkness to reveal gravity-defying origami plates and sculpted volumes.  

The show marked Moe Khadra’s first collaboration with Lebanese make-up artist extraordinaire, Fady Kataya, on a new line of clothing. By now Khadra, the Lebanese Omani-born fashion designer has become known as one of the Middle East’s most promising emerging design talents. In the last few seasons he has quietly been building up a following for his expertly draped dresses and alluring collection of handbags and shoes. 

For this new collaborative venture, called “MOK for FADY KATAYA,” the début line featured ten outfits inspired by the Hippocampus, a half-horse/half fish-like creature found within Phoenician and Greek mythology.

This translated into dresses made from a variety of fabrics such as cotton and jersey that were draped and pleated around the body in novel ways. There is nothing hard-edged about the women Khadra envisions. Instead of constricting the body, he generously molds fabric around a woman’s natural curves. One stand-out piece was a knee-length draped evening dress completely encrusted in silver paillettes, which quivered as the model moved.

Fady Kataya is one of the leading makeup artists in the Middle East today and is eagerly sought out by celebrities, including Nancy Ajram and Carole Samaha. His beauty spa/lounge located in Beirut’s chic Verdun district is one of the chicest places to get pampered in the Lebanese Capital.

The philosophy behind this new collaborative venture between fashion designer and makeup artist, will find Kataya providing Khadra with a package of inspirations based on make-up forecasts for the upcoming season; which the designer will then translate into innovative color combinations and trendsetting silhouettes. 

Instead of being sold directly to stores, the MOK for FADY KATAYA line will be launched through a series of look books and will be available exclusively at the Fady Kataya Beauty Lounge. 

For more information, visit:
Moe Khadra at www.mokmeonline.com
Fady Kataya at www.fadykataya.com