Located in a beautifully preserved brownstone in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, Soull and Dynasty Ogun have created a sanctuary for their lifestyle brand, L’Enchanteur. The centerpiece of their showroom, atelier, and gallery is a portrait of their late mother, Elthire Josephine, above the fireplace. This image of their mother, taken during her US citizenship journey, serves as a source of inspiration for the twins as they lovingly incorporate her essence into their jewelry designs.
The inception of L’Enchanteur in 2012 marked the merging of Soull’s label, Alkhemi9, and Dynasty’s label, BRZÉ. Since then, the identical twins have made a significant impact in the artistic and fashion realms. Their unique aesthetic, blending ancient symbols with the vibrant Black immigrant culture of Brooklyn, has garnered attention from renowned figures such as artist Mickalene Thomas and actress Lena Waithe. Celebrities like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Lauryn Hill have been spotted wearing L’Enchanteur pieces, solidifying the brand’s status in the industry.
In recognition of their artistic prowess, L’Enchanteur was honored with the prestigious CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award last year. This year, the brand is set to contribute to The Metropolitan Museum’s Costume Institute exhibition, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” Mickalene Thomas aptly describes the experience of engaging with L’Enchanteur’s work as a journey towards embracing one’s true self in a world full of complexities.
During a recent visit to their brownstone showroom, the twins’ artistic vision was palpable. The walls and ceilings, hand-painted by a friend of the homeowner, exude a sense of whimsy and creativity. Nigerian antiques, Mesoamerican artifacts, and personal artworks adorn the space, reflecting the twins’ diverse cultural heritage. Dynasty’s silver-flecked textile, inspired by a childhood incident, and Soull’s intricate jewelry pieces and crowns showcase the brand’s commitment to storytelling through design.
L’Enchanteur’s ability to seamlessly blend storytelling, cultural influences, and artistic expression sets them apart in the fashion world. Their commitment to authenticity and self-expression resonates with a wide audience, making them a powerful force in the industry. As they continue to push boundaries and redefine fashion norms, L’Enchanteur remains a beacon of creativity and innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of fashion.
