THE MYSTIC JOURNEY

An homage to our new post-lockdown appetite for life, the S/S 2022 collection from the Istanbul-based streetwear brand Les Benjamins is a celebration of soul-searching and excitement.

“The key inspiration is Jacques Majorelle,” explains Bunyamin Aydın, the brand’s Creative Director. “For this collection, I split his story in two: the first part is dedicated to his paintings of the people of the Kasbah. The second is inspired by his design of the iconic Majorelle Garden and its blue story.”

This season’s bold retro-futuristic influence infuses the men’s and women’s collections with effervescence as the colour palette explores deep chromatics, such as Majorelle blue, Citroen yellow, and warm Tangerine, while the printed patterns take on a kaleidoscopic feel that leads us to self-exploration.

“I felt like I needed a mystic journey that is going to make me forget about the here and now, and take me to tomorrow,” says Bunyamin. “The Majorelle Garden has always mesmerised me and when I took a deeper look into Marrakesh, I really felt the urge to cast my eye there this season.”

The 1970s are omnipresent, flourishing across the collection in psychedelic prints and distorted tonal carpet motifs and trims, while flower lace lamination – inspired by Marrakesh’s iconic Majorelle Garde – adds a whimsical touch to urban silhouettes.

Drawing from traditional tailoring techniques and cuts, as seen in djellabas, kaftans and shalwars, pieces across both men’s and women’s lines are fused with streetwear elements that give a contemporary twist to timeless garments. Flower and bird prints appear across embroidery on jersey, cupro and leather – each inspired by traditional handcrafted items, echoing the symbolic nature of a mystical journey and spiritual rebirth.

“I live in duality, and I’m proud of my Turkish roots. Juxtaposition has always been a technique that reflects my upbringing in Germany. Therefore, the collection is a reflection of duality, where soul-searching meets a psychedelic-inspired journey throughout Eastern cultures,” adds Bunyamin. ✤

GO: VISIT LESBENJAMINS.COM FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.