Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty dons Naja Saade’s latest creation
Middle Eastern designer Naja talks about his fascination with Indian culture and his work
Bollywood actor, entrepreneur and wellness influencer, Shilpa Shetty Kundra recently donned a stunning jump suit from Lebanese designer Naja Saade’s latest collection for India’s Got Talent TV show.
The glittering one-piece dress with puffed shoulders and a belt was a show-stopper. The actor, who began her career in Bollywood in 1993, displayed her trademark grace and elegance.
Naja’s latest Mademoiselle collection relates the tale of a mythical star who led a life full of mystery and contradictions. The character’s dresses represent her doubts, fears and vulnerability behind the scenes. However, they also denote the glory, joy and love she felt once in limelight.
Naja’s designs are heavily influenced by the Indian film industry – Bollywood. And not without reason.
“I am fascinated by the world of Bollywood – it has been a source of inspiration for me. The vivid colours, the positivity, they enable me to come up with new creations,” Naja told The Kurator exclusively.
“Indian culture has always been an inspiration for me. In fact, I created my Maharani [The queen] collection based on those influences – it was a nod to royalty of yore; their grace, their elegance and their charisma. However, in was 2017 that I was introduced to Indian celebrities when that line came out and that has now resulted in this collaboration in a purely organic manner,” he added.
Naja is a trained radiologist and began his career in 2003 and worked across medical institutions in the Middle East. However, he knew that this wasn’t his true calling.
He took the first tentative steps in to the world of design by joining the School of Fashion Design in Beirut, Lebanon.
Naja’s style evokes the world of charm and glamour. Through the refined elegance of his creations and the meticulous attention to detail, he seeks to enhance the natural beauty of a woman.
Saade is rapidly becoming recognised for his unique approach to design and has had substantial influence through his creations and craftsmanship.