Before his sudden passing in April, Alber Elbaz had finalised two product stories with his AZ Factory team.
AZ Factory. (Photos: Stephane Gallois Photography)
Launched on June 12 to mark the founder's 60th birthday, the first story "SuperTech-SuperChic" brings hi-tech to high-fashion.
Using eco-dyed, nylon microfibre traditionally used in activewear, AZ Factory employed innovative, 3D knitting technology to create woven details inspired by couture craftsmanship. The resulting "athletic couture" is a new approach to formalwear that remains comfortable, breathable and seasonless.
The second product story "Free To" conveys messages of escapism and hope through bold, hand-embroidered lettering on elevated hoodies, tops and sweatpants made of eco-sustainable fabrics.
The Moroccan-born Israeli designer brought his signature raw-edged satin ribbon and metallic details to pieces he envisioned as an answer to the sartorial needs of women today.
Elbaz also conceived handbags that allow women to freely hug and feel hugged.
The handbags feature an adjustable multi-strap and lightweight chain fixtures for flexible wear. Made from high-frequency, moulded nylon, the modular bags can be worn cross-body, on the shoulder, belted at the waist, or held in hand.
In accordance with his wishes to support LGBTI youth and encourage all people to be free to love, a portion of the proceeds from the Free To story will be donated to the It Gets Better Project, whose mission is to uplift, empower and connect LGBTI youth around the globe.
The beloved Elbaz stepped into the fashion world in 1985, first working in New York with Geoffrey Beene and staying on for seven years as head designer.
In Paris, he later became Guy Laroche's design director before succeeding Yves Saint Laurent as YSL's creative director of Rive Gauche. As Lanvin's artistic director from 2002-2015, he revived the long-established fashion house.
Two years ago in partnership with Richemont, the legendary designer made a comeback by creating AZ Factory as a digital-first luxury brand, based on design, innovation and fun storytelling.
A and Z refers to the first and last letters of his name, and the factory generates purposeful, solutions-driven fashion.
AZ Factory has shared plans to honour the late founder during Women's Spring-Summer 2022 Paris Fashion Week. The event will celebrate Elbaz's extraordinary life and work, paying tribute to his creative vision and joyous spirit.
AZ Factory will be available at Club 21 Multi-label at Gaysorn Village.
