The Golkar brothers, the men behind luxury brand The Emperor 1688, showcased their spring summer 2015 collection during the 4th season of Fashion Forward Dubai. I have always enjoyed learning about the story and inspiration behind a fashion collection, because it teaches us more about the art of fashion design. This is why I am sharing the story behind this collection with you today.
The brothers were inspired by the adventures of monsieur Yves Saint Laurent in Morocco and his lifelong obsession with the North African climate. Yves Saint Laurent was an Algerian born – French designer and, as we all know, one of the greatest names in fashion. Since 1980, Yves Saint Laurent co-owned a botanic garden in Marrakech, Morocco called Le Jardin Majorelle with Pierre Bergé and often visited this place to seek refuge or inspiration for his collections. After his death in 2008 his ashes were scattered in the Majorelle garden, which shows his fondness for this place. The garden was designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s – 1930s. Majorelle used a bold cobalt blue color for the garden and its buildings, which is now known as Majorelle blue. The Spring Summer 2015 collection by The Emperor 1688 includes several items in this beautiful color. Their color palette also includes earth tones that reflect the deserts of North Africa and dusty tones of the summer skies. They have also used prints and woven fabrics that reflect North African art and architecture.
From casual to chic
The Emperor 1688 is a brand for both men and women and is best known for its contemporary, luxury suits for men, made from the finest fabrics and of the highest quality. This collection includes innovative designs ranging from casual to chic. Casual looks one can wear during the day and chic, formal looks to wear at the office or to a fancy night out.
I have selected three of my favorite looks for the gallery and have put them in the following order: casual – casual chic – chic. The second look from the gallery in Majorelle blue is one of my top favorites from this collection. It is a mix between casual and chic. I truly admire The Emperor 1688’s ability to graciously mix masculinity with femininity when it comes to their womenswear items. The masculine, straight lines from the blazer and pants meet the softness and flowing shapes of a feminine blouse. The sheer fabric of the blouse gives it a touch of sexy. Love it!
Check out the gallery and let us know which look is your favorite!
Photography: Courtesy of Getty Images, Ian Gavan, Stuart Wilson – Fashion Forward Dubai