Maison Bent representing black luxury in an industry that lacks black talent
Maison Bent representing black luxury in an industry that lacks black talent
When fashion houses were dominating the scene with little to no black creatives in sight, Maison Bent gave us the black luxury we all needed. The brand is an inspiration for more black talent to tap into the world of luxury fashion.
After founder and designer Shanna Bent spent time working for some of the most reputable fashion houses including Alexander McQueen, the next step was to venture into her own brand. Maison Bent, a luxury black-owned womenswear brand explores a variety of perspectives taken from disciplines involving art, history, literature and sustainable practices. in order to share stories through finery for the “femme du mode” (a sophisticated woman belonging to fashion society; a woman of the world).
In her first collection, effortlessly crafted tailored suits were the focus. With a twist that turned away from your usual conventional classic silhouettes, boundaries were pushed with innovative designs that demonstrated individuality and provided a sense of empowerment. This was a call to recognise that power of modern-day women and their increasing influence on an international scale.
Now With the release of SS21 collection which stimulates the interconnection between feminine Jamaican nostalgia, inspiration was taken from her grandmothers’ journey and transition from Jamaica to the United Kingdom decades back.
What made Shanna Bent want to start her own brand?
Maison Bent is a sustainable, luxury Womenswear brand for the 'femme du monde'. After years within the industry beginning with her time at Central Saint Martins, London College of Fashion, pioneering companies such as Alexander McQueen, Roland Mouret and Agent Provocateur and her time as a Fashion and Music journalist, Shanna Bent decided it was time to launch her brand to fulfil 'black luxury'. The lack of black talent within luxury fashion has always been extremely evident during her time in the industry which has nurtured her mission to work with other black creatives.
Explain the aesthetic/design of Maison Bent?
Maison Bent currently creates occasion wear made from sustainable fabrics and processes including a mix of natural fabrics and end-of-line materials left over from other fashion houses. All items are made-to-order within their Wimbledon studio by experienced artisans.
“Shanna Bent decided it was time to launch her brand to fulfil 'black luxury'. ”
What makes you stand out?
Many brands outsource their production, thus being very distant from the designing, manufacturing and distributing processes. Maison Bent, however, creates all items in-house and provides opportunities to local professionals and internships to local young people. The main long-term mission is to provide as many jobs and opportunities to minorities as possible who usually lack opportunities within the industry.
What are your plans for the future?
Maison Bent is on a mission to become a pioneering household name, implementing the best sustainable and ethical practices.
