Amine Jreissati Launches Lockdown-Inspired Collection
The Lebanese designer and founder of BOYFRIEND The Brand has unveiled Sajeen, available to be shopped on the brand’s newly-launched online store
As part of BOYFRIEND The Brand’s seventh season, the Sajeen collection was created as an archival refinement, to revive the brand’s true identity.
Derived from the Arabic word “Sajeen” which literally translates to “prisoner,” the collection was inspired by the COVID-19 lockdown. Due to the ongoing pandemic, everyone has been confined to their own spaces and countries with limited social interaction; being deprived of work, travel and other activities that bring true happiness.
Rather than dwell on the disadvantages of the pandemic, Amine altered his perspective and focused on the benefits of the situation. The designer comments, “We see ourselves become ‘prisoners’ of love, ‘prisoners’ of endless knowledge and ‘prisoners’ of our fight for freedom, justice and truth. ” He adds,”I held on to my determination and created a colour pallete. I decided I was no longer confined, rather in recovery. I contemplated a new-found perception of what a ‘wardrobe’ should be. I found inspiration in the sad reality we face everyday.”
The brand only collaborates with Lebanese businesses in order to spotlight local talents like artists, designers, models, photographers, videographers, directors and embroiders. Fabrics were sourced from a local threader from the mountains and clothing was manufactured in various small factories throughout the city. The brand also worked closely with renowned fashion house Hassidriss to create some embroidered pieces and Lebanese company Sikasok to develop the socks collection.
Speaking about the new collection, Amine says “What we wanted was to curate pieces that would be relevant and important for today… adapting to a new way of living. The clothing follows you on a never-ending journey from the comfort of your home to the grittiness of the city streets, the loving arms of your gatherings, and all the ups and downs that life can and will throw your way.”
The Sajeen collection is now available to shop online. To visit the store, click here