Les Benjamins Explores “Eastern Punk”
For Fall 2024, Les Benjamins, guided by the creative direction of Bünyamin Aydin, embarks on a contemporary odyssey through Eastern narratives with its latest campaign shot in London. Titled “Eastern Punk”, this collection delves into the ancestral roots of Turkish punk, seamlessly fusing heritage elements with modern silhouettes while paying homage to Tünay Akdeniz, a maestro of Turkey’s 1970s punk scene.
“Once you reconnect with your roots and the origins of how music genres started in yourhometown, only then canyou continue building new movements. I wanted to reintroduce theseTurkish cultural treasures to the youth”
The “Eastern Punk” collection masterfully weaves history and rebellion, intertwining the intricate tapestry of Turkish culture with the unfiltered essence of punk. Drawing inspiration from ornate patterns and age-old tales woven into Turkish heritage, it infuses them with the vibrant spirit that defines punk’s core. This season’s lineup pushes boundaries, venturing into the realm of gender fluidity through audacious silhouettes adorned with distressed finishes and fearless asymmetry.
A vivacious color palette spans from vivid pinks and yellows to blazing reds, seamlessly blending with deep purples, opulent burgundies, and sleek blacks, creating a dynamic smörgåsbord of contrasts. Trompe l’oeil details are skillfully employed in outerwear, meticulously tailored to showcase classic Turkish patterns, while printed denim cleverly masquerades as supple leather. Pleated skirts, diverse in length and fabric, are thoughtfully crafted to embrace individuals of all genders.
The visual narrative of the collection artfully intertwines a medley of influences, from the cut-and-paste aesthetics of punk album covers to the graceful allure of Turkish calligraphy, ancient carpet motifs, and Eastern symbols. Iconic punk elements such as studs, zippers, and unraveled textures adorn the pieces, uniting nostalgia with the electrifying pulse of the underground music scene. Patchwork embellishments feature prominently on drainpipe jeans, suiting, and leather ensembles adorned with safety pins, all evoking the defiant mood of punk.
“Our focus is on creating pieces that can be enjoyed by all genders, and there’s nothing more rewarding than to be able to share our rich underground music community with the world.”
Beyond being mere garments, “Eastern Punk” offers a sartorial epiphany that bridges the traditional and the avant-garde. It invites wearers to embark on a transformative exploration deep into the heart of rebellion.
