Les Benjamins
Les Benjamins is an Istanbul-based fashion brand founded by Bünyamin Aydin in 2011. It makes menswear and womenswear, bags and accessories that express its vision of the contemporary East, sold through its own stores, online and at international retailers.
| Founded | 2011 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Bünyamin Aydin |
| Headquarters | Istanbul, Turkey |
| Stockists | Harvey Nichols, Antonioli, Saks Fifth Avenue |
| Website | lesbenjamins.com |
What is Les Benjamins?
Les Benjamins is a lifestyle brand from Istanbul, Turkey, that describes itself as a platform, retail space and fashion label for men and women. Founder Bünyamin Aydin frames it as a platform of how we want the East to be today, and its rangefinder logo stands for the brand's perspective on the East.
History
The brand began in 2011 with 30 printed T-shirts. That first run led to invitations to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Istanbul and later to Milan Fashion Week.
Products and positioning
Les Benjamins offers a full wardrobe with a streetwear sensibility, alongside bags and fragrances. It has collaborated with Turkish cultural figures such as BaBa Zula and Killa Hakan, as well as with adidas Originals.
- Hoodies, T-shirts, shirts, knitwear, leather and outerwear
- Trousers, denim, sweatpants and dresses
- Shoulder bags, backpacks and duffles
- Hats, eyewear, jewellery, scarves and fragrances
Distribution
The brand sells through its own stores and online shop and is stocked internationally by retailers including Harvey Nichols, Antonioli and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Why it matters
Les Benjamins shows how a fashion label from Istanbul can build an international presence around a distinct regional cultural identity.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Les Benjamins?
Les Benjamins was founded in 2011 by Bünyamin Aydin, starting with 30 printed T-shirts.
Where is Les Benjamins from?
Les Benjamins is based in Istanbul, Turkey.