Mahmood Al Safi
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2024
Karaoke Culture is the name of my latest collection which I will be presenting in FTA
Karaoke Culture is a tribute to the transformative power of fashion. Inspired by the visionary Malcolm McLaren, the collection combines elements from the last five decades, mixing classic archetypes with everyday objects and mundane materials.
I drew inspiration for the proportions of my suit from Joseph Beuys's felt suit from 1970, a reference that has always captivated me. Each time I approach it, I find a different interpretation.
Viewing tailoring as a proposition of a posture to the wearer, In an attempt to capture the stillness and awkwardness of Beuys's suit, I elevated the armhole to an unusual height and extended the shoulder line upwards. To accentuate the deliberate awkwardness, I employed craft paper fused to a cotton base in the construction.
For my other tailoring proportions, I found inspiration in the construction of an paper delivery bag—an ever-present yet often overlooked everyday item. I have enlarged a die cut fivefold compared to the actual size of a paper bag.
