Photos: Ed Ng

Haute couture designer Gianni Maanaki unveiled his inspired i8 dress that had over 4800 red and blue Swarovski crystals thrilling thousands of invited guests at the 9th annual Cabriolet Charity Gala hosted by Brian Jessel BMW Vancouver, Canada.

During this fabulous show, all were enchanted with his outstanding artistry collection of exquisite elegant outfits, chic party dresses and sensual evening wear.

I first interviewed Lebanese designer Gianni Maanaki last September for a story on how he views the female silhouette as a canvas from which he creates his glamorous designs.

Gianni Maanaki’s creative process begins with a private consultation, where he sketches a design according to his client’s style, adding his own extra finesse to create a made-to-measure work of art for the female form.

“I always begin with the body and use it as inspiration,” says Gianni Maanaki. “My aim is to reveal her inner beauty.”

For a bodice dripping in crystals, he can use thousands of Swarovski crystals which are all attached by hand to ensure that his garments are voluptuous.

With over three decades of experience, you will find fashions by Gianni Maanaki worn by the royal families of Saudi Arabia, Dubai and Qatar, and celebrities from Lebanon and Egypt.

Visit giannimaanaki.com

Gianni Maanaki i8 dress is inspired by new 2015 BMW i8, valued at $12,000 with over 4800 red (on back) and blue Swarovski crystals, each meticulously hand-sewn taking over 60 hours. (Photos: Norm Lee Photography and Eg Ng)

Photos: Ed Ng and W.L. Photography

About the Author: Experienced luxury fashion buyer Edward Quan has worked with the most prestigious designer brands across Europe and America and shares his inspiration for effortless style on his website, StyleDrama.com. He has a passionate, yet intelligent way of describing his subject and has a keen eye for detail. He lives in Vancouver, Canada.