Sequins have long defined Arab stardom, shimmering on red carpets, concert stages, and runways. This Styled Archives revisits MENA icons who turned sparkle into timeless style statements.

Raneem Maaly

Aug 28, 2025

Styled Archives: MENA Stars Who Shined Bright in Sequins

Sequins have always been a star’s shortcut to the spotlight. In the 2000s, Arab pop divas leaned into the glitz, stepping on stage in dresses that caught every flashbulb and reflected every note. Film stars and fashion icons brought the same energy to red carpets and runways, turning sequins into a language of glamour that spoke across borders. From Nawal El Zoghbi’s Miss Lebanon gown to Mona Zaki’s Paris Fashion Week statement, the shimmer has never lost its hold. This week’s Styled Archives takes a look back at the sequined moments that defined MENA stardom.

Nawal El Zoghbi | Miss Lebanon Pageant, Beirut (2004)

In a pink, all-over sequin gown with curls as big as her voice, Nawal lit up the Miss Lebanon stage, proving shimmer was the ultimate spotlight-stealer.

Elissa | World Music Awards, Los Angeles (2005)

With a sparkling cut-out gown dripping in silver sequins, Elissa collected her World Music Award like only a true diva could, equal parts glam and glory.

Dalia El Behery | Lux Fashion World, Beirut (2006)

Walking the runway in true spectacle, Dalia El Behery stunned in Hani El Behery’s sequin-drenched gown and matching veil, a bridal fantasy sparkling under every light.

Nancy Ajram | World Music Awards, Monte Carlo (2008)

Nancy Ajram lit up Monte Carlo in a silver sequin gown, bow cinched at the waist. With her hands raised mid-song, she gave us pure pop star energy wrapped in her signature cuteness.

Najwa Karam | Star Academy Finale, Beirut (2009)

Najwa Karam dazzled on the Star Academy stage in a mini dress overloaded with sequins, from tiny silver studs to oversized sparkle. With her hair blown out and mic in hand, she was every inch the Lebanese superstar.

Haifa Wehbe | Concert de la Tolérance, Agadir (2009)

Haifa Wehbe lit up the Agadir stage in a strapless purple mini wrapped in sequins and fabric folds. With matching eyeshadow, flowing hair, and a playful mid-dance pose, she turned performance into pure allure.

Nahed El Sebai | Cannes Film Festival (2012)

Nahed El Sebai shimmered on the red carpet in a gold gown layered with sequins of every size, her bangles stacked high to keep the sparkle going long after the flash.

Mona Zaki | Paris Fashion Week (2024)

Mona Zaki stepped out in a gold dress covered in oversized sequins, a bold and gleaming look at Paris Fashion Week.

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