Blending Modernity with Ethnic Techniques & Art : Glass Cypress
Focusing on designs thats of clean lines , minimalism and luxurious materials.
This American brand incepted in 2016 by 2 brothers ; Saber Ahmed and Samee Ahmed, who have an atelier in the south of Houston, Texas, USA.
The atelier, which is also a base for artists from various fields, is lined with works by local artists and is said to be a lively space.
Their unique world view that combines ethnic techniques and contemporary art is reflected in the signature hand-embroidered designs.
For this Autumn Winter 2024 collection, we would like to highlight 6 items and the unique attributes of each item.
1) One Big Cock Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Crafted from cashmere wool , depicting a cock thats hand embroidered in contrast stitchings of black brown and red. This soft to touch sweater is a statement piece when paired with a minimalist bottom (e.g jeans or sweatpants) The interlocking thats visibly seen on the back of this sweater prevents it from piling.
2) Red Multi Panelled Linen Shirt
This linen shirt with various panels all over is a result on patching the linen accurately to create a patchwork that run seamlessly. To add more pizzaz to this shirt, hand stitching in black threads can be seen to emphasise each panel. The hidden details of this black hand stitch can be seen once the wearer raises his arms.
3) Red Forest Wool Shorts
Wool ribbed shorts with a drawstring waist aids for a snug or looser fit. This shorts feature forests motifs on the front. This amazing hand stitching to outline the forests with their tree trunks is mesmerising. With white for the outline and the contrast of red and black , this wool shorts is indeed a stunner.
Zipper on front and with back pockets for ease.
4) Purple "Glass" T-Shirt
Crafted in organic cotton and submerged in a vat of natural vegetable dye .
This tee is a staple as emblazoned on front is the brand's name. Hand stitched and simply a must own. As every season , a different version appears.
Pair it with their signature wool shorts and wide legged pants.
5) Unorthodox Bowling Silk Shirt
The words "non-conformist" , "unconventional" , "offbeat" comes to mind immediately after spotting this one of a kind bowling shirt. Traditionally, bowling shirts are often made from synthetic fabrics and worn to layer over a t-shirt. This gorgeous item is made of silk and the hand stitching runs through provides a checks pattern. Upon closer inspection , the intricate hand stitching is uniform and this is often hard to achieve with hand stitching. Available in majestic klein blue.
6) Blue Footprints Hoodie
In cotton-cashmere blend and with tonal hand stitching of footprints all over this hoodie , this simple yet understated hoodie is a must own. With drop shoulders and slouchy drawstring hood , this hoodie is meant to layer for the colder months. Providing comfort and warmth for the wearer.
Bangladesh is a South Asian country that handles the embroidery process for Glass Cypress items, has achieved remarkable economic development, but is also known to be frequently affected by climate change and suffering from natural disasters such as droughts and floods.
Poverty issues are particularly known in rural areas. The embroidery techniques passed down among local women as one of the key pillars supporting life in that area bearing the heart and soul of their toil.
Not only that, but another wonderful aspect of this brand is its partnership with local people through charitable activities in which they partner with BRAC (Bangladesh Rehabilitation Assistance Committee), one of the world's largest non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and donate a portion of their sales to the organization. Hence, giving back to this community with altruism is a core ethos for Glass Cypress.