ELISSA HASSAN
The Fashion Founder’s Blueprint© by
BASED IN
BEIRUT // LEBANON
FOUNDED
AQUI // SMALL MATTER // TFFB
Launching Aquí in 2020 during Lebanon’s lockdown as a side project, Elissa transformed an Instagram thrift store into a thriving brand known for its limited-edition collections and rapid sell-outs. Today, she oversees every aspect of the brand—from design and production to creative direction and marketing—and mentors aspiring entrepreneurs through her masterclasses, having already guided over 300 future brand owners.
Her hands-on approach and dedication have even led her to give a TED Talk on brand building, affirming her role as both an innovative designer and a respected educator. She currently collaborates with international fashion exhibitions and renowned fashion design schools in the Middle East, further solidifying her influence in the industry. With a keen eye for quality and a commitment to her Middle Eastern roots, Elissa continues to expand Aquí Beirut’s presence, aiming to establish the brand in key markets like the UAE and the GCC.
ELISSA HASSAN IS THE FOUNDER AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF AQUÍ BEIRUT, A LEBANESE FASHION LABEL THAT REDEFINES LUXURY BY BLENDING WESTERN DESIGN WITH AUTHENTIC LEBANESE CRAFTSMANSHIP.
ABOUT
Photo by Christian Abou Faysal
American University of Beirut – BSc in Psychology, Minor in Physics
Istituto Marangoni Milano – Certificate in Fashion Business
Central Saint Martins – Certificate in Pattern Drafting
TED Talk – Brand Building in a World that doesn’t respond to needs
Cutting Studios M7 – Ongoing Masterclass Collaboration
AUB – Keynote
LAU – Keynote