Nonconformist and fuelled by a forward-thinking artform, Sentire Studio (Instagram), led by Syrian-born Saleh Kelarge, is disrupting fashion through contemporary, innovative and mindful design. Here, we talk to Kelarge about his inspirations, his goals and outlook on design.
Where does the name Sentire Studio come from?
SENTIR /SEN̦.’TIR/ (VERB): Spanish for “TO FEEL” and “TO EXPRESS”.
Describe Sentire Studio in three words.
Elegant, sophisticated, innovative.
Beyond design and Sentire Studio, who are you?
I am a Syrian-born, European-based creative. Growing up in Syria, I was exposed to a rich culture and history that has influenced my values and ways of thinking, yet more than a decade as an Arab living in Europe means I can bring together the best of both cultures. The war in Syria has left me without a true home base, and I’ve struggled with feeling lost and disconnected from my Syrian roots, while also not fully resonating with European culture. I’ve often felt like there is no representation for me in either place. While it can be a challenge to navigate the complexities of cultural identity, it is through these struggles and experiences that we can truly grow and find our path in life.
You have a tech background, does this give you a different perspective on the fashion industry?
One of the key benefits of coming from a startup background is the ability to be agile and to be able to adapt to change quickly. My experience has taught me the importance of being flexible and open to trying new things which, in the fast-paced fashion industry, is crucial. Startups also often have limited resources, which can foster a culture of creativity and resourcefulness: my background has given me the skills and mindset to think outside the box and to find creative solutions to challenges.
As a sustainable designer, what would you say are the most important things to consider when it comes to slow fashion?
It’s crucial to prioritise the use of environmentally-friendly materials and to design for durability, in order to reduce the environmental impact of our clothing. Also important are: transparency, to build trust with consumers; producing clothing ethically and under fair-labour conditions; using local factories to help reduce your carbon footprint; and offsetting carbon emissions through carbon credits or other methods. We encourage customers to repair and reuse their clothing and produce limited runs of our garments to reduce waste. I’m passionate about educating our customers and by providing information and resources about sustainability and ethical fashion, we can empower people to make informed decisions.
What’s the biggest misconception about sustainable fashion?
One of the biggest is that it is not stylish; many people believe that sustainable fashion is limited to basic, utilitarian pieces. However, there are many sustainable brands and designers creating trendy clothing using sustainable materials and production methods. Another misconception is that an individual’s fashion choices cannot make a meaningful impact but, because the fashion industry is a significant voice and contributor to environmental and social issues, the choices we make as consumers can have a powerful impact.
Many brands are shifting towards ethical fashion, what makes you stand out?
We believe in pushing the norms and not using sustainability as our only unique selling point, but rather as a necessary core value – we strive to make a positive social and environmental impact with every decision we make. As a young brand, we are committed to creating things correctly from the beginning, rather than making changes later on. Change takes time and it may take years for bigger fashion houses to transform fully.
Walk us through your design process.
I focus on craftsmanship from start to finish: this begins by researching trends and gathering inspiration, before considering every design detail. After I have developed a number of concepts, I refine and finalise my designs. This might involve making changes to the fit or silhouette and adding details and finishing touches.
How do you push boundaries within your design?
I believe that fashion has the power to transform the mundane into the extraordinary, and I am always seeking new ways to challenge the status quo. I’m deeply inspired by the idea of defining future aesthetics and creating products that are innovative and forward-thinking, so I am always looking for ways to push the boundaries of traditional design. One of my greatest passions is reinventing things that people might consider ordinary and making them look outstanding.
How do you go about finding artisans to collaborate with?
Through networking events, online platforms, and reaching out to artisans I admire. It’s important for me to work with artisans who share a similar style and passion for fashion as this helps ensure a successful – and mutually beneficial – collaboration. Building relationships with artisans allows me to incorporate unique elements into my designs and helps me to tell the stories behind my collections.
Your brand mission statement includes “ignite the freedom of expression” – how do you go about doing this?
By celebrating individuality and challenging societal norms. For those who have struggled to fit in, or feel marginalised by society, fashion can be a powerful means of self-expression and a way to reclaim their own identity.
Who or what inspires you?
I can’t choose one person: I’m constantly inspired by everyone I meet and I like my design to invoke a feeling of connection and identification. I’m also inspired by the vision of a future where technology and innovation have transformed the way we live and interact with our surroundings. I imagine a world where daily tasks are streamlined through the use of advanced technologies, and where minimalistic design principles are valued for their ability to create a sense of calm and clarity.
What does success mean to you? And what have you learnt from your failures?
Success, for me, is about finding fulfilment and happiness in the work that I do and making a positive impact on the world. I’ve learned that success is not always linear, and that it is through failures and setbacks that we often grow the most. Success is a journey, and it is up to each of us to create our own definition of it. It is not defined by external validation or material possessions, but by how we use our skills and talents to make a positive difference in the world.
Dead or alive, who is an icon you would dream of dressing?
Kadim Al Saher: his music and art have brought joy and inspiration to people across the Middle East for decades, he represents the sophisticated and cultural roots of the region. It would also be a dream to dress Bella Hadid and Zendaya, two strong and confident women who are known for their bold fashion choices and ability to push boundaries. Both represent a new generation of Arab and African American women who are breaking barriers and challenging traditional expectations.
What’s next for you?
Currently, I’m focused on setting up international distribution for my brand, building out our omni-channels and preparing to exhibit at the Tranoï show in Paris. As I continue to grow and develop as a designer, I’m always seeking inspiration from different cultures and experiences and looking for new ways to challenge myself and push my creative boundaries.
For more regional fashion stories, check out our fashion pages.
This interview with Saleh Kelarge from Sentire Studio appeared in YUNG ISSUE 2 PRINT.
Production Credits:
Photography: Leandro Aballe
Styling: Sergi Padial
Makeup and hair: Mabel Boon
Models: Nicolas Sané, Deborah Olugbemiga
Agency: Fifth Models
Photography assistant: Arnau Solé
