Born in 2016 from the creative minds of Saudi visionaries Fahad Aljomiah and Khalid Aljammaz, 1886
takes its name from the dorm room numbers 18 and 86, where their early sketches covered the walls
while studying in London. 1886 is a Saudi ready-to-wear brand blending influences from music, art, and culture into comfortable, urban pieces for men and women. The label offers versatile apparel with a distinct edge, capturing a contemporary vision of Arabian modernism.
KHAMSA sat down with Fahad Aljomiah for an exclusive interview, following the 1886 pop-up at Galeries Lafayette in Paris.
١. 1886 started from dorm room sketches in London. How does it feel to see those walls of ideas now hanging in Galeries Lafayette Paris?
The feeling is indescribable. What started as an idea between two ambitious Saudi students in London is today showcased in one of the world’s most iconic department stores. This achievement fills us with pride and motivates us even more, proving that Saudi creativity can go far and that nothing is lacking.
٢. When you design, are you thinking of Riyadh first or Paris, London, New York? Who are you really designing for?
I design for the new generation youth who are global in mindset but deeply rooted in their culture. Whether they’re in Riyadh, Paris, or New York, they all share that same energy and curiosity. 1886 speaks to that global youth spirit.
٣. 1886 has always merged Saudi identity with global streetwear. What’s one Saudi cultural detail you’ve woven into your clothes that people might not notice at first glance?
One detail is our use of Arabic typography and hidden symbols from Saudi heritage. Sometimes it’s in the stitching, sometimes in the cut of the garment. It’s subtle, but for those who know, it tells a deeper story.
٤. There’s a lot of talk about the Gulf “moment” in culture and fashion. From your perspective, what does the Saudi youth style look like right now?
Saudi youth style is confident, experimental, and bold. They mix luxury with streetwear, tradition with innovation. They’re not afraid to stand out and that’s what makes them unique right now.
٥. Streetwear is often about rebellion and storytelling. What are you rebelling against with 1886?
1886 rebels against stereotypes that Saudi brands can’t be global, that Middle Eastern creativity is limited. We’re here to prove otherwise, unapologetically.
٦. This pop-up in Paris marks your European debut. What was the moment you knew 1886 was ready to step onto that stage?
When we saw how strongly our collections resonated both locally and in international collaborations. The response gave us the confidence that 1886 was ready for Paris.
٧. Collaboration is a huge part of fashion now. If you could collaborate with any artist, musician, or designer tomorrow, who would it be and why?
I’d love to collaborate with someone like Travis Scott he represents culture, music, and style in a way that aligns perfectly with 1886’s DNA. It would be a powerful cultural bridge.
٨. How do you balance global appeal with staying true to a distinctly Saudi voice?
We stay rooted in our Saudi story but express it in a language that’s global through design, cuts, and narratives. It’s about showing authenticity, not imitation.
٩. You’ve described 1886 as “unapologetic.” What’s the boldest risk you’ve taken with the brand so far?
The boldest step we’ve taken was our expansion strategy opening large, upscale stores in major malls and moving into international markets. Many warned us about the risks, but this move became one of our greatest successes and a key milestone in our growth.
١٠. Looking ahead, what’s next for 1886? More European expansions, or something completely unexpected you can share with KHAMSA?
The U.S. market is definitely part of our plans, but you can also expect some surprises from us. We’re looking to expand into a full lifestyle not just clothing so that 1886 becomes a complete cultural experience.
