Elie Saab

Identifying the need or the problem always the first step in the design process. In Elie Saab's case, when he is designing a gown for a specific client, he will take into account the location that the gown will be worn at, the duration it will be worn for, the weather expected and the type of event the client will be attending.
These are all important aspects to consider early into the design process.
 

Research, explore and investigate the various solutions to the need or problem. During this process, Elie looks at the colour scheme the client may have in mind. This is also the stage where an inspiration board would be used in order to understand a better direction of where the design is headed. Elie looks at the design possibilities and the suitable fabrics that are needed in the various construction steps along the way.
 

Development of ideas and solutions is the next step where the feasible solutions for the gown's design, right down to fabrics, design and construction are beginning to be narrowed down and finalized. This is the stage where more considerations are brought up for possible alternatives in terms of the construction process. This stage may also include reviewing past, similar designs to understand what may or may not have worked, and applying that knowledge to the present design.
 

Creation is a vital step in the design process, particuarly in important garments such as a high profile evening gown. During this step, often problems may occur during the construction of the gown. This can include a fabric being difficult to cut or work with, or maybe the original design being found unsuitable for the desired fabric. Not every design is going to be able to be made flawlessly without some problems arising, even for seasoned professionals such as Elie Saab.
As Saab's gowns are haute couture, this means that every little detail to the gown, from the cutting of the fabric to the stitching of the gown pieces, is done by hand. As a result of being individually made, instead of mass-produced, this leaves a lot of room for human error.
When creating a custom-made gown, Saab tends to take into account the client's personality. Factors such as the colour of the fabrics and the amount of embellishments used in the design of the gown, all come down to individual personality. It is with this personal touch that Saab is able to create magnificient, unique gowns adored by the women who adorn them. 
 

Testing and experimentation, although is one of the final steps, is also one of the most vital steps in the design process. This is usually the stage where a prototype of the gown is constructed and either pinned to a mannequin or on a model. This is the stage where the gown is assessed on aesthetics, as well as durability to an extent. The last thing the designer needs is a gown that the fabric will hang awkwardly on the client or that the particular fabrics are not suitable for specific purposes on parts of the gown.
 

Evaluation and modification is the final stage of the design process. During the evaluation process, things that are assessed in the gown aside from aesthetics include the way in which the gown flows when it is worn and the drape of the gown on a model or client's body. It is common that if the gown does not drape attractively, the client will not feel comfortable wearing it and that may be obvious to observers.
As Saab counts royalty and famous A-listers amongst his  clients, it is essential that not only does the client look good in the design, but they also feel good in it.