THE DESIGNER

Fadwa Karout Baalbaki was born on 1969 in Beirut, Lebanon

And was one of twelve siblings. She spent her childhood in Lebanon, but after the Lebanese civil war started, she was forced to leave the country to continue her education in France.

During these formative years, Fadwa developed an interest in fashion, she used to thrift shop in Paris and add her own touch to each piece afterwards.

In 1994 Fadwa returned to Lebanon after the war was finished. She started a family and raised three children, which made it hard for her to pursue her interest in fashion and develop it.

In 2008, Fadwa’s took a decision to start working in jewelry and accessories for private clients.

In 2010, she took a leap of faith and decided to open her store in Beirut, it would go on to be known as (Little Black Dress) the store was a haven for emerging designers, by offering them a platform to showcase their collections and promote local talents.

In 2011, Fadwa opened her atelier in Beirut, where she started experimenting with fabrics and creating pieces for private clients.

In 2014, Fadwa showcased her first Couture collection in Abu Dhabi which gained her an exposure amongst Arab women in the region, she later started to gain a reputation in Lebanon and the Arab world.

In 2021, (Little Black Dress) went under a rebranding to be known as FADWA BAALBAKI, offering two Couture collections, Bridal and two Ready-To-Wear collections per year.

Now, Fadwa caters to all women, her savoir faire is reflected on each creation, intricate hand embroidered patterns bring a sparkle and life to the delicately sculptured silhouettes.

Social Responsibility

From the beginning of the creation process, social responsibility and sustainability are embedded in our values.

Our savoir-faire is taught to new employees that seek a deeper understanding of the creation process.

Our fundamental values have always been revolved around inclusivity and diversity.

We see each piece created as a statement piece to be worn by all women regardless.

Sustainability

All our pieces are made in-house at the FADWA BAALBAKI atelier in Beirut, Lebanon. Where every piece is given the attention needed.

We source our fabrics from France and Italy.

At the atelier, each piece from our stocks gets to have a new identity each season, that’s why we do not destroy our surplus.

We are committed to a zero-waste approach therefore we only produce a limited quantity of products according to the demand.

All our fabrics are used during the creation process leaving no waste.