Skip to content

The Kooples: a unisex love affair of grit and glamour

Earlier this year, we brought you the news that French brand The Kooples had landed in SA. Part vintage rock ‘n’ roll, part English tailoring, its cool unisex aesthetic appeals to even the most classic girl in us. GLAMOUR chats to Alexandre Elicha, one of the three brothers who founded The Kooples, for an inside look at the tr è s chic brand.

Who are the style icons that have always inspired The Kooples?

Serge Gainsbourg, Jane Birkin, Mick Jagger and Marianne Faithful.

What is the vision behind the campaign’s emphasis on couples?  

The vision behind the campaign is to illustrate how two souls can become one through clothing style. It’s a style marriage made in heaven.

Which signature pieces will we always find at The Kooples, and what are the different ways to wear these?

A biker leather jacket that can be paired with tailored trousers and a printed shirt, or  for a more rock star look, with a pair of skinny jeans and a tee. For winter, bikers also look great over a knit or under a parka. You’ll also always find a nice three-piece suit with a London cut. 

What was the inspiration for the SS16 collection?

The punk rebel style of The Clash.

What do you love — and hate — about the fashion business?

I love the creation and craft part of it – coming up with new ideas and creating something people can identify with – but I hate the shallow part and the misconceptions people have about fashion.

What are the key The Kooples pieces to look out for this winter? 

Our leather jackets, military-inspired parka, comfortable blousons, scarves and hats.

How would you define modern glamour?

It’s all about being natural, self-confident and a little bit mystical. The elements of modern glamour are time, taste, style and being well travelled.

Is working and collaborating with your siblings something you had to get used to?

We’ve been working as brothers all our lives. We are very close and learn a lot from each other on a daily basis. On the creative side, we all have our positions: I look after menswear, Laurent looks after womenswear and Raphael is in charge of our image and communication. We always work hand-in-hand with each other when it comes to projects.

What is your message to GLAMOUR girls?

Rock ‘n roll glamour chic is timeless.

What activities do you enjoy outside of work?

Boxing, playing guitar, bike riding, travelling and partying with friends.

Who would you say are the 10 most amazing style icons in history?

Serge Gainsbourg, Patti Smith, David Bowie, Jane Birkin, Keith Richards, Johnny Depp, Twiggy, Jimi Hendrix, Kate Moss and Mick Jagger.

See all the fun and GLAMOUR from The Kooples’ exclusive opening party in the gallery below!

Gallery image 0Gallery image 1Gallery image 2Gallery image 3Gallery image 4Gallery image 5Gallery image 6Gallery image 7Gallery image 8Gallery image 9Gallery image 10Gallery image 11Gallery image 12Gallery image 13Gallery image 14Gallery image 15Gallery image 16Gallery image 17Gallery image 18Gallery image 19Gallery image 20Gallery image 21Gallery image 22Gallery image 23Gallery image 24Gallery image 25Gallery image 26Gallery image 27Gallery image 28Gallery image 29Gallery image 30

Share this article: