Les Benjamins Rides the "First Wave" for FW23 Collection
Joining the launch of EMPTY pop-up in South Korea.
Istanbul-based brand Les Benjamins is setting its sights on other galaxies, leaving the Milky Way to imagine what its Fall/Winter 2023 collection might look like on a desert-like planet.
Titled “First Wave,” the label’s latest offering merges traditional Eastern cultural motifs with a futuristic aesthetic. The garments are bathed in a slightly somber color palette, favoring shades of “Mahogany,” “Swamp” and “Sylvan Green,” joining flashes of neon and acid-washes, mirroring the wear and tear that might happen in a foreign atmosphere. The collection provides protection, incorporating padding and performance-focused military silhouettes. Softer, luxurious fabrics like leather, silk and crepe juxtapose the utilitarian tailoring, contrasting gritty chain detailing and patches. Waves appear throughout the presentation, stitched into oversized denim overshirts, while white piping along a black denim set subtly nods to water’s ebb and flow. Graphic T-shirts are adorned with blurry portraits, mimicking the experience of a mirage in the desert. Elsewhere, sand-colored two-piece sets, comprised of an asymmetrical crop top and skirt elevate the otherwise casual presentation.
Adding to the collection’s spirit of travel, Les Benjamins is marrying the East with the East, becoming the first Middle Eastern designer to connect with South Korea. The brand will be partnering with Seoul retail concept store, EMPTY for a pop-up. Opening on September 6th, the collaborative sopping experience will run for two weeks during the Frieze Art Fair.
Take a look at Les Benjamins’ FW23 collection, “First Wave” in the gallery above, which is available to shop on the brand’s online store.
