One such label is By Walid, the London-based brand by designer Walid al Damirji, renowned for presenting rare pieces of history rooted in individuality, craft and creativity.
The former Creative Director of British fashion brand Joseph, al Damirji launched By Walid in 2011. His goal? To merge sustainability with storytelling. This the most compelling part of his unique approach: the designer uses beautiful reclaimed antique textiles — think embroidered Chinese silk, Victorian-era taffeta, Edwardian linens and more, all from his collection gathered over years. There are no gender or age boundaries in By Walid’s designs either, with pieces designed to move beyond season and stereotype.
By Walid’s collections are made entirely by hand, with the designer considering himself a craftsman and artist rather than a traditional fashion designer, perfectly at home blending fashion with fine art and interior objects. His signature design language includes free-form tailoring, delicate raw edges, hand-stitching and visible mending, which all help contribute to a sense of authenticity. No two pieces are alike, with each carrying a layered sense of history.