Ep 6. Couture and Conflict in Lebanon

In episode 6 of the second season of States of Undress, titled "Couture and Conflict in Lebanon," host Hailey Gates takes us to Beirut, the fashion capital of the Middle East. Despite the ongoing political conflict and cultural tensions in this region, the fashion industry in Lebanon is booming, and Gates is determined to explore how fashion is being used as a tool for resistance and expression.

The episode begins with Gates meeting with celebrated Lebanese designer Elie Saab, whose gowns have been worn by countless Hollywood celebrities and even royalty. Saab explains how he uses fashion to tell the story of Lebanon, and how he hopes to inspire his fellow citizens to take pride in their heritage and culture.

Gates then visits the home of fashion icon Aida Touma, who runs a boutique called Museum Blue in Beirut's trendy Mar Mikhael district. Touma is passionate about showcasing the work of local designers, and is heavily involved in supporting young talent. She believes that by supporting local fashion, she can help promote a sense of national identity and pride.

Next, Gates travels to the southern city of Sidon, where she meets with designer Jamil Walid. Walid's work is heavily influenced by the country's history and traditions, and he explains how he incorporates traditional techniques and materials into his modern designs. Despite operating in a region where many people struggle to make ends meet, Walid is determined to succeed and to help put Lebanese fashion on the world stage.

Gates then visits the studio of up-and-coming designer Nour Najem, whose playful and colorful designs reflect a youthful perspective on the country's culture. Najem explains how she uses fashion to push boundaries and tackle social issues, such as body shaming and gender norms. She sees fashion as a way to not only express herself but to make a statement and spark important conversations.

The episode also delves into the dark history of Lebanon's civil war, which lasted from 1975 to 1990 and left the country scarred and divided. Gates visits an exhibition of photographs taken during the conflict, and speaks with curator Myriam Boulos about how fashion played a role in the war. Boulos explains how the various factions used clothing to distinguish themselves from one another, and how fashion was often a means of survival in a time of extreme hardship.

Despite the country's ongoing political turmoil and social conflicts, Gates finds that fashion has become a unifying force in Lebanon. Through the creativity and determination of designers like Saab, Touma, Walid, and Najem, fashion is being used to celebrate the country's rich cultural heritage and to forge a new, more inclusive national identity.

The episode ends with Gates attending Beirut Fashion Week, which is being held at the newly reopened National Museum of Beirut. She sees firsthand how the country's fashion industry is thriving, with designers showcasing a range of styles and influences. Despite the challenges that Lebanon faces, Gates sees hope in the way that fashion is being used to bring people together and to celebrate the country's unique identity.