Western street culture meets the enigmatic underground of the East for an exciting cross-cultural exchange in the latest Les Benjamins x Market offering. By drawing inspiration from Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and the cultural significance of its rug bazaar, Les Benjamins do not only pay homage to their roots but also elevate a cultural narrative to a global stage.
Steeped in rich history and cultural significance, the Grand Bazaar stands as an enduring symbol of the Istanbul’s heritage. Rugs – aka Turkey’s national treasure – not not only adorn homes but also hold deep cultural significance, representing traditions, stories, and a sense of identity. This bustling marketplace, with its labyrinthine alleys and vibrant atmosphere, has served as a central hub of commerce and cultural exchange for centuries. It is within this lively tapestry of colours, textures, and stories that Bunyamin Aydin and Mike Cherman found inspiration for this collaboration.
Les Benjamins x Market captures the essence of the East, infusing it with contemporary streetwear aesthetics, and presents it to the world in a way that is both captivating and inclusive. At the heart of this collaboration lies the reinterpretation of Les Benjamins' signature carpet prints, which have become synonymous to their identity.
Embodying the brand’s commitment to wearable art. From short-sleeve tees to back-print hoodies, jackets, sweatshirts, denim pants, slippers, shirts, and my favourite, a teddy bear – all of the pieces within this collaboration play an imaginative twist on Istanbul’s iconic rug prints playing tribute to the cultural richness found within Istanbul's Grand Bazaar. By embracing the artistry of rug making and incorporating its essence into wearable garments, Les Benjamins has created a collection that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, weaving together the threads of cultural heritage and contemporary fashion.
Notably, the phrase ‘Rug dealer’ adds a playful layer of storytelling amplifying the voices of Eastern youth culture by debunking cultural bridges and taboos. Just as the Grand Bazaar has been a meeting point for diverse cultures and a haven for artistic expression, Les Benjamins x Market serves as a platform for cultural exchange. Each piece tells a unique story, paying homage to the historical significance of the rug bazaar and the artistry behind these intricate carpets. By infusing cultural references into the designs, Les Benjamins invites wearers to become part of a larger narrative, bridging the gap between East and West through the language of fashion.
Les Benjamins' commitment to cultural storytelling remain unparalleled. Remarkably, the campaign video accompanying the collaboration was shot in the old town of Istanbul (for a truly authentic touch) by Turkish director Melih Kun – entirely on an iPhone 15 Pro!
