GMBH: Finding Beauty in Dark Times
As the tension in global politics continues to rise, designers Serhat Işik and Benjamin Huseby of GMBH are sticking to their principle of finding beauty in dark times. Known for their political bent, the designers also allow themselves the freedom to create beautiful fashion that makes a statement.
Reflecting on their past collections, Işik and Huseby acknowledge the privilege of being able to focus on aesthetics, such as their ‘Untitled’ collection in winter 2023 that featured pink hues and bows. However, in the current climate, they feel compelled to speak out. “As soon as you walk out, you face reality,” said Işik, emphasizing the need for their designs to reflect the world around them.
For their latest collection, GMBH drew inspiration from the Berlin club culture of the 1980s, a time when the city was a hub of transgressive freedom. While maintaining their signature edgy aesthetic with body-shaping silhouettes and powerful proportions, the designers introduced softer elements such as flowing pants, peplum jackets, and draping faux fur coats.
The runway also featured GMBH’s iconic thigh-high square-toe boots, pants with boxer waistbands, and modular pieces like faux fur collars and scarves. The collection served as a tribute to the brand’s roots in Berlin and a reflection on the past decade of GMBH’s evolution.
Looking ahead to their 10th anniversary show in the summer, Işik and Huseby remain open to stylistic changes depending on the political climate. Despite the pressure they face as Muslim immigrants in the fashion industry, the designers are committed to using their platform to address important issues. “We know that we are getting politicized as Muslim immigrants or children of Muslim immigrants. We want to talk about that too. That’s why we founded GMBH,” they explain.
Ultimately, GMBH’s commitment to creating fashion with a message remains unwavering. As they navigate the complexities of the industry and the world around them, Işik and Huseby continue to find beauty in the midst of darkness.
