In the heart of Berlin, where the rhythm of techno beats blends seamlessly with the city's diverse cultural canvas, GmbH Clothing emerged in 2016, marking its territory as a distinctive and socially conscious force in the world of fashion. Co-founded by the visionary duo Benjamin Alexander Huseby and Serhat Isik, GmbH transcends the conventional boundaries of a clothing brand; it's a living canvas that intertwines global narratives, political perspectives, and the pulsating energy of Berlin's nightlife.
Picture this: it's 2015, and the vibrant beats of a Berlin club reverberate through the air. It's here, on the dance floor, that Isik and Huseby's paths converge, setting the stage for a serendipitous meeting that would birth GmbH. What began as happenstance swiftly evolved into a brand that encapsulates the immigrant experience in Europe. GmbH, inspired by the founders' diverse backgrounds, political dialogues, and the vibrant tapestry of Berlin's club culture, has become a storytelling platform through the language of fashion.
Benjamin Huseby, a graduate of Chelsea College of Art renowned for his prolific career in photography, and Serhat Isik, armed with a master's degree in men's fashion design from Weissensee Academy of Art, seamlessly meld their talents to give life to GmbH. Their journey from the pulsating heart of Berlin's club scene to the avant-garde realm of fashion mirrors not just personal growth but also the evolution of a brand that embodies the very spirit of Berlin.
The name "GmbH" carries more than a simple moniker; it's a nod to the German legal structure, "Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung" or "Company with limited liability." Eschewing the use of their own names in the brand, Isik and Huseby opted for a neutral title, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.
GmbH's ascent to fame isn't merely a result of the founders' creative genius but also a testament to their unwavering commitment to sustainability. A transformative trip to Milan during the brand's nascent years unveiled the treasure of deadstock fabrics, laying the foundation for GmbH's environmentally conscious approach. Today, an impressive 90% of the materials employed by the brand are either organic, recycled, upcycled, or sourced from deadstock textiles.
Sustainability, for GmbH, is not just a buzzword but a philosophy embedded in every stitch. Iconic pieces like the PVC trousers not only encapsulate Berlin's streetwear aesthetic but also serve as canvases reflecting the brand's dedication to incorporating technical fabrics and cutting-edge design elements.
GmbH's global acclaim is evident in its presence across 50+ online and offline retail stores worldwide. From Highsnobiety to Matches Fashion, Net-A-Porter, Ssense, Farfetch, Lyst, and Dover Street Market, GmbH's influence in the fashion world is an ever-expanding tapestry.
GmbH's "Kurban": A Spiritual Odyssey in Fashion's Protective Embrace
In the realm of where GmbH channels its alchemy, where trends often echo the pulse of societal shifts, GmbH stands poised to unveil a transcendent narrative with its upcoming 2024 spring lineup titled "Kurban." Derived from the Turkish word for sacrifice, rooted in the Latin "sacer" meaning holy, this collection is more than an ensemble of garments; it's a spiritual journey expressed through the artistry of fashion. Designers Benjamin Huseby and Serhat Isik invite us into a world where clothing becomes a shield, a sanctuary against life's unforeseen challenges.
The genesis of "Kurban" traces back to a tumultuous period for the dynamic duo, a time that called for resilience and a symbolic sacrifice. The collection appears to be an ode to the fact that working in fashion is inherently sacrificial, and this collection is an homage to that ethos. It emerges as a response to the need for safeguarding people from the unexpected twists of fate, transforming fashion into a powerful instrument of protection.
While the color palette may seem restrained, dominated by the classic duo of black and white, there's an intentional depth to this simplicity. Far from being somber, the hues serve as a canvas for a spectrum of emotions and expressions. The collection seamlessly weaves cut-outs and couture volumes, drapes and capes, creating a visual symphony of contrasts and complements.
Arabic letters come to life on shirts and dresses, forming a script of protective spells and phrases like "safe from harm." This linguistic infusion embodies a fusion of contemporary and traditional rituals, underscoring the designers' commitment to embracing cultural diversity and symbolism. For Huseby and Isik, this amalgamation does not just merely appear to be a stylistic choice but a profound expression of the collection's core ethos.
Accessories in the "Kurban" lineup extend the narrative further, offering a continuation of the protective theme. Over-knee boots in transparent organza, a familiar sight in their menswear, make a bold statement. Mules, born from the transformation of cowboy boots with wiped-out backs, manifest in black vegan leather or adorned with fake feathers. Each accessory serves as a visual echo of the collection's overarching theme—fashion as a shield.
The dedication to sustainability remains steadfast in GmbH's accessories, as real leather finds no place in their creations. Recycled synthetic water-based materials and innovative alternatives like apple waste take center stage, underlining the brand's commitment to responsible fashion practices. In a world increasingly aware of its environmental footprint, GmbH not only crafts a protective cocoon through its designs but also contributes to a more sustainable industry.
As "Kurban" prepares to make its debut, GmbH beckons us to transcend the superficial and embark on a journey where fashion becomes a conduit for spiritual expression, a shield against the uncertainties of life. This collection is not just about what you wear; it's an invitation to embrace a narrative woven with threads of sacrifice, protection, and the eternal dance between tradition and modernity.
Summa summarum, as a brand born from the dance floors of Berlin, GmbH's clothing is more than apparel; it's a testament to the city's techno heartbeat, celebration of individuality, and commitment to functionality. From the multicultural inspirations drawn from the founders' origins to the sustainable practices intricately woven into every creation, GmbH stands not merely as a clothing brand but as a vibrant narrative etched into the fabric of Berlin's cultural landscape. So, the next time you slip into a piece of GmbH clothing, remember: you're not just adorning a garment; you're embracing a slice of Berlin's beating heart.
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Words by AW.
Photos courtesy of GmbH.