There’s something about effortless, versatile pieces which instantly captures our attention. We felt a similar level of fascination when we discovered Bahrain based label, AKS. Founded by sisters Ameena & Asma Khaled Saif, the brand communicates a modern-day aesthetic with a classic feel. Demonstrating expertise and knowledge in streamlined tailoring, the AKS pieces (be it a coat, dress or jumpsuit) are sophisticated, yet easy-to-wear. Playfully incorporating knots, wraps and oversized structures, the uber talented sisters create collections which are fit for the cool yet classy urban girl (We’re in love with their wraps).
Another brand which we discovered on Instagram (those late night scrolls are clearly proving to be very fruitful), we absolutely adore the contemporary, minimalistic aesthetic. Their latest SS17 collection is a perfectly curated mix of structured silhouettes, in a muted palette of neutrals. Classy yet simple, this collection is exactly what we need this summer.
As we begin the new year, Team Amanqi had the chance to sit down with the talent powerhouse sisters behind the label, discovering their journey, style and their latest collection.
THE BEGINNING OF AKS
Ameena: Ever since we were teens, we used to design our own everyday outfits and formalwear. Remember Asma?
Asma: We sure did or we paired up pieces from our mother’s closet of wonders with casual outfits.
Ameena: Asma has a more urban, street wear approach to her style and I’m all about the classic wardrobe. So the aesthetics behind the brand started by blending these two distinctive styles together.
THE ROLE OF DIGITAL MEDIA & THE REGIONAL FASHION INDUSTRY
Asma: Social media has played a huge role in the establishing of our brand. It mirrors our personality and DNA to the world that goes beyond showcasing our pieces. It’s about painting a story of your lifestyle and sharing it and that always attracts the wandering eye. It has definitely had a massive impact on the perception of our brand.
Ameena: The rise of talented innovators, designers and bloggers is actually making it super competitive, which is healthy if you ask me. The entire industry is definitely shifting to something stronger and we’re all part of a portfolio that the world is starting to open up to (by that I mean stockists, press, etc). We are grateful to be considered pioneers on certain aspects of designs and if this is going keep shaping the industry, then we’re all in.
ASMA & AMEENA’S ‘MUST-HAVE’ CLOSET ESSENTIALS & FAVOURITE BRANDS
Asma: Celine!
Ameena: What about Marni? We love Marni!
Asma: And the Row, obviously!
Ameena: Accessories are my wardrobe essentials. So a classic bag like a black Birkin with gold hardware and statement shoes; i live in Céline mules! But then again I can’t live without my over sized sweaters…and fringed jeans…and round glasses.
Asma: For me it has to be my oversized- outerwear pieces, basic T-shirts, my go-to Celine pouch bag in maroon, a pair of Chanel sling backs, and a Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch. Oh and I love vintage Raybans. LOVE them.
SS17 Favourites
Asma: we’re both all about outerwear! So the SS17 Denim Style Jacket and the Velvet Half Blazer from our FW16 season.
THE FUTURE OF AKS
Ameena: AKS is a ready-to-wear brand, in addition to the modest wear capsule lines, which we work on twice or three times a year. At the moment we are working on consolidating our retail network worldwide, prepping for another Paris Fashion Week showing, and we are also expanding the collections and lines to better cater to a broader audience. We’re hopeful and positive about the future of AKS. Always will be.
A USUAL DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE AKS TEAM
Ameena: We’re both early birds so we usually start our day with an hour workout at dawn and then we head over to our studio at around 8:30am where we make it a ritual to have breakfast together.
Asma: The first couple of hours at the studio are dedicated to all matters pertaining to our company (our retail network, planning and scheduling, overseeing orders etc). We do actually dedicate 3 solid hours for designing, pattern making, fitting, and research on a daily basis.
Ameena: At around one, you’ll usually find us at the terrace of a nearby cafe and Bahrain has plenty of cool eclectic ones. We then head back to the studio to oversee the final stages of the construction process of our boutique and private showroom.
Asma: Our evenings are dedicated to friends and family most of the time.
Follow AKS: @aksthelabel