Lebanon has been long-known for its creative verve in the region, and designers such as Elie Saab and Zuhair Murad have risen from there to stardom and created powerhouse ateliers. In 2021, Syrian designer Tarek Abou Samra launched his label, Atelier Forger out of Lebanon. The aim was to create a sustainably driven brand that champions local artisans and celebrates fine tailoring.
The name is an ode to the artisans who create authentic pieces by hand. For his inaugural collection, Abou Samra launched The Lagom. This collection speaks to the brand’s dedication to creating timeless, elegant, sophisticated pieces for the modern woman.
“I wanted to create a beautiful collection of handcrafted pieces made from ethically sourced materials,” he explained. “We are champions of beautiful silhouettes, built with comfort and modern elegance in mind. We are also dedicated to preserving traditional craftsmanship of designs through Lebanese blacksmiths and purveyors.”
Abou Samra works with several purveyors and craftsmen. One of his most recognisable elements of the brand is the designer’s incorporation of hand-forged brass buttons made by local artisans. The Lagom is made up of designs that feature a contemporary aesthetic with hints of the 1950s. It incorporates crunched waists, pencil skirts, statement shirts and sharp cuts that reflect an ongoing statement in the industry.
In a welcome move, the brand creates designs that are size inclusive. The collection is accessible and wearable. The designer, who studied Fashion Design at Fine Arts College, has worked alongside some notable haute couture designers, including Nicholas Jebran and Abed Mahfouz.
“Atelier Forger hopes to bring a special perspective on the role of craft through sustainably driven designs. We work to capture the essence of perpetual collections by celebrating the intertwined middle eastern and western culture,” he said.
Atelier Forger is available at FLTRD Concept Store in DIFC, Dubai
