silk road services | les benjamins ss21

full looks. Les Benjamins

The Silk Road was more than a path through which goods were traded. Through its many travellers, stories were passed along, and what started as a trade route became a fruitful exchange of culture, religion, style and more. For the label’s latest collection, Les Benjamins looks to this historic route for influence, creating a collection ripe with natural tones, traditional tailoring and touches of contemporary streetwear influence.

Adorning select pieces from this collection is artwork from Neil Raitt, which Les Benjamins Founder and Creative Director Bünyamin Aydin commissioned for this collection. Schön! had another conversation with Aydin to discover more about this collection, its influences and the most representative selections from this collection.

full looks. Les Benjamins

The Silk Road served as a major inspiration for this collection. Why is this theme significant to you?

I was born in Germany as a second generation Turkish-rooted immigrant. My grandparents moved to Germany to give my mother and us a better future. I was always curious about my roots, and combining both my German side and Turkish roots is actually what Les Benjamins is all about. The silk road was one of the most important trading routes in history. Culture was spread through the silk road. The Les Benjamins Silk Road collection represents really my vision for Les Benjamins and the Eastern contemporary aesthetic.

full looks. Les Benjamins

How do the prints and fabrics used for SS21 differ from previous collections?

I have used a heavier Les Benjamins carpet monogram jacquard that turned out to be my favourite fabric this season. The viscose short sleeve shirt fabrics are also key for this season. Embroidery and trims inspired by the tents, camel accessories and carpets are essential details from the Les Benjamins silk road collection.

full looks. Les Benjamins

What are the key pieces for Spring/Summer 2021?

Definitely the oversized carpet monogram jacquard hoodie and cargo pants with the silk road-inspired all-over print painted by Neil Raitt. I’m very open to partner up with artists and painters to create unique artworks that bring the story alive from different points of view.