The Ottoman Collection

Inspired by parallels of culture. 

With Moiree as our starting point for the collection, we looked at how this traditional Egyptian fabric actually came from France and was a status symbol for the elite. While the moiree in Europe gained popularity for its shiny, watery pattern, it was adapted in the Ottoman Empire and Egypt onto the levantine stripes. This was to signify that they are in touch with the western world while still true to their roots.

Over time, it trickled down to the middle and lower classes as the fabric was democratized by introducing cotton and viscose to what was originally only pure silk. Once it became more accessible, the fabric became most commonly used for the traditional ‘sedeiry’ worn over cotton Galabeyas.

The contrast of these colorful, shiny stripes against the different shades of calm beige, as well as the fluidity of the original moiree against the rigidity of the stripes inspired us to expand on the contrast even further. What was originally a status signal for men has been reinterpreted many times over the years just like we are doing now.