Styled Archives: When MENA Stars Took the Edgier Route

Fifi Abdo reworks traditional Egyptian folkloric dress with a sheer black meleya laff embellished with geometric silver embroidery, layered over a dark corset-style top. Oversized gold jewellery, dramatic smoky eyes, and bold red lipstick bring a provocative glamour to the traditional references, making the look feel theatrical and unapologetically bold.

Laila Eloui gives classic tailoring a darker twist in an oversized black blazer styled like a mini dress, its sharp shoulders contrasting with the bare legs below. Dark-lined lips, smoky eyes, and black nail polish bring a femme-fatale sensibility to the otherwise pared-back silhouette.

Elissa combines sheer black beadwork with a low-rise animal-print skirt, bringing together dark glamour and the unapologetic excess of early-2000s pop styling. Voluminous blowout hair, smoky eye makeup, and statement earrings complete the look, while the exposed midriff and clashing textures give the ensemble its distinctly edgy appeal.

Haifa Wehbe brings goth-glam energy to the stage in a sheer black lace bodysuit with elongated sleeves, offset by a chunky statement belt decorated with metallic medallions and cascading chains. Her dark, flowing hair and smoky makeup complete the look, balancing delicate lace with a distinctly rock-inspired attitude.

Nancy Ajram leans into gothic romance in an all-black look featuring sheer floral lace sleeves and a heavily textured, ruffled bodice. Paired with smoky eye makeup and sharply defined brows, the outfit trades conventional eveningwear for a darker, more rebellious take on femininity.

Sherine contrasts the elegance of an ankle-length black satin gown with a sheer, intricately beaded corset back and towering strappy stilettos. Her short, shaggy pixie cut with frosted blonde highlights brings a punk-glam edge to the otherwise dramatic eveningwear.

Assala swaps structured stagewear for a loose, olive-green satin blouse with a liquid-like sheen, pairing it with chunky gold jewellery and heavy black eyeliner. Her caramel hair with contrasting platinum highlights adds another layer of attitude, giving the polished look an early-2000s rock-chic finish.

Ghada Adel gives an otherwise sleek, dark look a rebellious finish with textured black leather opera gloves, topped with a sparkling rhinestone cuff. Paired with a satin bottom, a fitted black top, voluminous crimped curls, and smoky kohl eyeliner, the outfit plays with the contrast between punk-inspired accessories and high-glamour styling.

Ola Ghanem takes an all-black approach to glam rock, pairing a sequinned mini dress with a voluminous feathered bolero. A thick leather-look choker adds a punk-inspired touch, while her tousled waves and smoky eyes reinforce the look's rock-and-roll edge.