FEDAN Fashion and Art_ISSUE 2_EAST by Fedan_Fashion_Art

AW 25/26

PR Ê T- À -PORTER EDITION

“Threads of gorizon”

East/West Collection

EAST

OUR SECTIONS

1. Regulars : Editor,s Letter

2. Artistry Unveiled: Delve into the world of art, from contemporary galleries to hidden gems, with interviews and analysis of creative trends.

3. Fashion Narratives: Deep dives into fashion, from the runway to behind the scenes, with interviews and analytical articles.

4. Voices of Visionaries: Essays and opinions from experts, producers and models on the creative processes and philosophy of fashion and art.

5. Artful Escapes: Journeys to unique places where fashion and art meet.

6. Editor’s Picks: Editor’s picks that focus on current and interesting topics in fashion and art.

7. Accent Spotlight : yours moments of inspiration. A section where you will find exclusive jewelry, accessories and art objects from small brands that will add style and personality to your look.

Enjoy your reading...

Scan & Listen our playlist for EAST

MAJOREL GARDEN MARRAKECH

PHOTO MARINA GEISLER-FEDAN

REGULARS

EDITOR’S LETTER

FASHION NARRATIVES

“YVES SAINT LAURENT’S MOROCCAN ODYSSEY: An Oasis of Inspiration, Art, and Eternal Style.”

“THE GARMENT OF ETERNITY: A Legend Woven in Silk.”

ARTFUL ESCAPES

BOHEMIAN MARRAKECH: Pierre Bergé, YSL, and the Legends Who Brought the Desert to Life.

EDITOR’S PICKS

A SCENTED JOURNEY: My Day at the Perfume Museum in Marrakech.

ARTISTRY UNVEILED

“AN OASIS OF ART: The Boutique Gallery at the Heart of Marrakech.”

Collection of the East: “Ode to Eastern Harmony”.

“The East is a world of eternal allure, where history and art merge to create a symphony of beauty. This collection is my tribute to the magic of the East, inspired by its rich culture, textures, and profound connection to nature.

At the heart of this vision lies the YSL Museum in Marrakech, preserving a legacy that inspires the creation of unique works. Its influence runs through vibrant fabrics, intricate patterns, and the luxurious spirit of the East.

From the tapestries of ancient palaces to the delicate silk of modern fashion, the East speaks the language of elegance and mystery.

The art of the East would not be complete without its fragrances. The Storie Veneziane collection by Valmont invites you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of eastern nights. Notes of amber, saffron, and precious woods tell stories filled with luxury, mystery, and sensuality.

This edition also reflects Yves Saint Laurent’s deep connection to the East. The museum in Marrakech and the vivid Majorelle Garden become sources of floral inspiration, where every detail evokes the spirit of spring and summer.

Every page of this issue is a journey through the world of the East, where tradition dances with modernity, and art reveals itself through refined lines and forms.

The Prêt-à-porter collection is the embodiment of art in fashion. I invite you to savor this edition, dive into its stories, inspirations, and the beauty of the East.”

Best regards,

Marina Geisler-Fedan Founder and Editor

MARINA GEISLER-FEDAN FOUNDER AND EDITOR

YVES SAINT

MOROCCAN

AN OASIS OF INSPIRATION, ART AND ETERNAL STYLE

PHOTO MARINA GEISLER-FEDAN

Morocco. The very name conjures images of endless deserts, vibrant bazaars, enchanting gardens, and the serene silence of mountain peaks. For Yves Saint Laurent, Morocco became more than just a destination; it was his muse, his creative sanctuary, and his home. “When I first arrived in Marrakech in 1966, I was so overwhelmed by this city that I immediately decided to buy a house so I could return here again and again,” he once said. That first visit marked the beginning of a profound and fruitful relationship between the legendary couturier and this magical land.

THE FIRST ENCOUNTER WITH MOROCCAN MAGIC

When Saint Laurent first set foot in Morocco, he felt as if the culture of this place embraced him entirely. The colorful bazaars, intricate zellige mosaics, bright djellabas, and the intoxicating aroma of spices all revealed a new universe to him. Unlike the strict formality of Paris, Marrakech was vibrant, alive, and brimming with creative freedom. It was here that he discovered the language of color. “In Morocco, I realized that the palette I use is the palette of zellige, djellabas, and caftans. This culture became my own, but I didn’t stop at simply absorbing it. I transformed and adapted it,” he explained.

COLOR: A LANGUAGE OF THE SOUL

Morocco’s palette forever changed Saint Laurent’s approach to design. Before visiting Marrakech, his work often reflected muted tones and minimalist structures. But the country taught him to see fashion through a prism of bold hues. The cobalt blue of Majorelle, the golden sands of the desert, emerald greens, and terracotta reds began to dominate his collections. “Marrakech taught me color,” he declared, and it was no exaggeration.

His designs became increasingly daring and rich with symbolism. His 1976 collection “Opéra-Ballets Russes” was a vivid celebration of Moroccan influences, blending high fashion with the bold, earthy spirit of the bazaars. It was not just fashion; it was storytelling through color and texture.

DAR EL HANCH: A CREATIVE HAVEN

Purchasing a house in the medina of Marrakech, Dar El Hanch, was a pivotal moment for Saint Laurent. This home became not only a retreat but also a creative workshop. Surrounded by traditional Moroccan architecture and lush gardens, he designed clothing that fused Eastern traditions with Western modernity. “We immediately fell in love with this city, its people, this country. By the end of our first trip, we had already signed the agreement to buy a house,” he recalled. This house became his sanctuary, a place where he found balance and boundless inspiration.

MAJORELLE GARDEN: A TEMPLE OF COLOR

One of the most significant chapters in Saint Laurent’s relationship with Morocco was the restoration of the Majorelle Garden. Created by French artist Jacques Majorelle, this lush oasis had fallen into neglect until Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé brought it back to life. “I have a real passion for the gardens of Marrakech,” he said. The vibrant cobalt blue walls, which later became known as “Majorelle blue,” were a revelation to him.

The garden was not just a source of creative energy but also a place of peace and reflection. It

inspired not only his designs but also his approach to life itself. Today, Majorelle Garden stands as a living testament to his love for Morocco and its beauty.

ART AND CULTURE AS A SOURCE OF STRENGTH

For Saint Laurent, Morocco offered more than colors and shapes—it gave him strength. His creativity became bolder, his ideas deeper. He drew from traditional mosaics, fabric textures, and architectural motifs, transforming them into art. As he described, “My imagination is a river that carries with it everything I love: colors, shapes, music, literature. Without this, my life would be unbearable.”

Saint Laurent’s collections were not merely about adapting Moroccan culture; they reimagined it in the context of haute couture. His reinterpreted caftans became a global symbol of elegance and timeless beauty.

A LEGACY OF ETERNITY

The Yves Saint Laurent Museum, opened in Marrakech in 2017, serves as a tribute not only to his work but to his profound connection with Morocco. The architectural masterpiece blends Moroccan traditions with modern aesthetics, housing his iconic designs, sketches, and photographs. It is more than a museum— it is a living monument to a man who taught the world to see beauty in the unexpected.

“Fashion fades, style is eternal,” Saint Laurent once said. This philosophy is at the heart of his legacy. Each of his creations was more than clothing; it was a reflection of culture, art, and life.

Quotes that Capture His Essence:

→ “Marrakech taught me color.”

→ “We immediately fell in love with this city, its people, this country.”

→ “This culture became my own, but I didn’t stop at simply absorbing it. I transformed it.”

→ “My imagination is a river that feeds my collections.”

→ “Fashion fades, style is eternal.”

CONCLUSION

The story of Yves Saint Laurent and Morocco is not just about a man finding inspiration in another culture. It is a story of how art and tradition can intersect, enriching one another. For Saint Laurent, Morocco was not just a source of beauty but a reflection of his inner world. Through his work, he made Morocco an eternal part of the global fashion landscape, and his creations remind us that true art transcends time.

text Marina Geisler-Fedan

PHOTO

MARINA

MAJOREL GARDEN MARRAKECH

PHOTO MARINA GEISLER-FEDAN

MUSEUM YSL MARRAKECH

ART PHOTO MARINA GEISLER-FEDAN

BOHEMIAN MARRAKECH: PIERRE BERGÉ, YSL and

THE LEGENDS WHO BROUGHT THE DESERT TO LIFE

arrakech was not only a haven of inspiration for Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé but also the epicenter of a vibrant bohemian lifestyle where culture, art, and friendship intertwined. Their homes — Dar El Hanch and Villa Oasis — became gathering places for global legends who left their mark on art, fashion, and music.

A MAGNET FOR CREATIVE GENIUSES

Pierre Bergé and Yves Saint Laurent were not only drawn to Marrakech’s enchanting atmosphere but also attracted some of the brightest bohemian figures of their time. Among the visitors to their homes were individuals whose names became synonymous with an era of cultural brilliance:

→ Catherine Deneuve — YSL’s muse, style icon, and film star. She spent significant time in Marrakech, admiring not just Yves’ home but his impeccable taste.

→ Bill Willis — the architect who helped Bergé and Saint Laurent craft the unique aesthetic of their villa, capturing the spirit of Morocco.

→ Talitha and Paul Getty — figures of 1960s glamour, whose lives embodied freedom and sophistication. They hosted dazzling parties at their palace, brimming with an atmosphere of luxury and creativity.

→ Francis Bacon — the renowned artist whose expressive works resonated with the boldness of Saint Laurent’s designs.

Their homes also welcomed legendary writers, musicians, and designers — from Jacques Majorelle, the creator of the iconic Majorelle Garden, to Mick Jagger, who found inspiration in Morocco’s exotic allure.

ART AND FRIENDSHIP

Marrakech was not merely a home for YSL and Pierre Bergé; it became a cultural oasis where unique ideas were born. The terrace of their villa served as the stage for conversations about politics, fashion, art, and music.

→ “There was always magic around us,” Bergé fondly recalled, speaking of the evenings at Villa Oasis.

→ One of their frequent guests, Talitha Getty, became a muse for many. Her beauty inspired photographers and artists, and she often posed for photo shoots in traditional Moroccan attire that harmonized perfectly with the city’s landscapes.

A LEGACY OF FRIENDSHIP AND CREATIVITY

The Majorelle Garden, saved from neglect by Pierre Bergé and YSL, became more than a reflection of their love for Marrakech — it became a place of memory. After Yves’ passing, his ashes were scattered there, making the garden a living tribute to his legacy.

→ “Every tree, every flower here reminds me of him,” Bergé once said.

→ These gardens symbolized their shared life, interwoven with the culture and spirit of the city.

MARRAKECH: THE CAPITAL OF THE BOHEMIAN WORLD

Their homes in Marrakech were not just residences; they were cultural landmarks where creative energy merged with the elegance of the East. Decades later, their bohemian legacy continues to inspire.

“Bohemian Marrakech: Pierre Bergé, YSL, and the Legends Who Brought the Desert to Life” is not just a story about a house. It is a tale of the people who transformed Marrakech into a cultural capital of their era.

text Marina Geisler-Fedan

PHOTO CREDIT BOOK

“A MOROCCAN PASSION BY FOUNDATION PIERRE BERGE AND YVES SAINT LAURENT”

PHOTO CREDIT BOOK

PHOTO CREDIT BOOK “A MOROCCAN PASSION BY FOUNDATION PIERRE BERGE AND YVES SAINT LAURENT”

For your thoughts...

tepping into the Perfume Museum in Marrakech felt like entering a secret garden of aromas, history, and artistry. The air was imbued with a warm, spicy sweetness—a delicate blend of amber, rose, and cedar that seemed to guide me further into its enchanting depths. I had always been fascinated by fragrances, but here, in this oasis of olfactory art, I was about to embark on a journey that would lead me to create my own perfume.

The museum itself was an architectural gem, a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Ornate arches and intricate Moroccan tiles whispered stories of the city’s rich heritage, while glass showcases held centuries-old artifacts: ancient distillation tools, tiny vials of essential oils, and perfume bottles that looked like they belonged in a sultan’s treasure chest. Each exhibit told a story—not just of scent but of identity, memory, and culture.

As I wandered through the halls, I learned how the art of perfumery is deeply intertwined with Marrakech’s history. The city has long been a hub for trading spices, flowers, and precious resins. I was captivated by the tales of how nomadic tribes carried fragrant goods across deserts, how orange blossom water was considered a symbol of purity, and how jasmine was harvested under the moonlight to preserve its delicate essence. This wasn’t just a museum—it was a celebration of the spirit of Morocco.

The highlight of my visit came when I was invited to join a workshop to create my own perfume. I sat at a beautifully arranged table filled with small bottles of essential

oils, each labeled with poetic names like “Atlas Cedar,” “Marrakech Rose,” and “Desert Oud.” Our guide, a master perfumer, began by teaching us the basics of composition—the interplay of top, heart, and base notes.

He spoke of how every perfume is like a story, with a beginning that captures attention, a heart that reveals its character, and a lingering base that leaves a lasting impression. I closed my eyes and imagined my scent as a reflection of Marrakech itself: bold yet elegant, warm yet mysterious.

I began with a base of amber and sandalwood, inspired by the earthy tones of the souks. Then, I added heart notes of rose and orange blossom, a tribute to the lush gardens hidden behind the city’s high walls. For the top notes, I chose bergamot and neroli, evoking the freshness of a morning breeze in the desert. With each drop, I felt like an artist painting a masterpiece—only my canvas was invisible, and my medium was scent.

After carefully blending the ingredients, I held the vial to my nose and inhaled deeply. It was perfect—an intimate expression of my experience in Marrakech, bottled for eternity. The perfumer sealed the bottle and handed it to me, saying, “This is not just a perfume; it is your memory, your story.”

As I left the museum, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude—not only for the experience but for the reminder that creativity comes in many forms. Marrakech had given me more than just a souvenir; it had given me the chance to capture a moment of inspiration and turn it into something uniquely mine.

Now, every time I open that little bottle and let the scent embrace me, I am transported back to that magical day—the laughter, the beauty, and the quiet pride of creating something so personal. It is more than a perfume; it is a piece of Marrakech, a piece of me.

text Marina Geisler-Fedan

ART PHOTO MARINA

PARFUM MUSEUM MARRAKECH

PHOTO MARINA GEISLER-FEDAN

THE GARMENT OF ETERNITY: A LEGEND WOVEN

IN SILK

PHOTO CREDIT BOOK

“A MOROCCAN PASSION BY FOUNDATION

PIERRE BERGE AND YVES SAINT LAURENT”

Marrakech. This city feels like a living dream. Its narrow streets breathe history, the spices fill the air with their intoxicating aroma, and the sounds of the Medina transport you to another era. But the most remarkable discovery of my journey was the traditional Moroccan garment. It is more than just clothing. It is a symbol of time, woven into fabric—a living legend that holds the soul of Morocco.

A JOURNEY THROUGH THE AGES

The history of this attire traces back to ancient Persia, where it symbolized luxury and power. Over centuries, it traveled through Moorish and Andalusian lands to find its unique expression in Morocco. Here, the garment became more than an item of clothing; it evolved into a language through which the culture of a nation speaks.

Each region contributed its own characteristics. Rabat brought elegance and refined lines, Fez introduced rich colors and strict forms, and Tetouan perfected it with velvet and golden embroidery, elevating the attire to regal status. Every detail, every pattern, carries more than beauty—it embodies a deep respect for tradition and pride in history.

The evolution of the Moroccan garment also demonstrates how cultural exchange shaped its identity. While preserving its local craftsmanship, the garment incorporated influences from Andalusia, Persia, and even European tailoring techniques. This unique fusion of styles made it a symbol of Morocco’s openness to the world and its ability to adapt and innovate.

THE INFLUENCE OF YVES SAINT LAURENT

The story of Marrakech would be incomplete without mentioning Yves Saint Laurent. Visiting the city for the first time in 1966 with Pierre Bergé, he was captivated by its vibrant atmosphere. Saint Laurent often said, “Marrakech taught me color.” This profound experience influenced his entire career, reflecting in collections inspired by the bold tones, patterns, and textures of Morocco.

Saint Laurent and Bergé also dedicated years to preserving Moroccan heritage. They purchased the Majorelle Garden, transforming it into a cultural hub where nature, art, and history coexist in harmony. Their efforts inspired a new generation of designers like Tamy Tazi, who honor traditional techniques while infusing them with mo-dern creativity.

A WORKSHOP OF SECRETS

In an old house tucked away in the Medina, I found a workshop where true masterpieces are

PHOTO

PIERRE BERGE AND YVES SAINT LAURENT”

born. Women sat at low tables, stitching intricate patterns into the fabric with extraordinary precision. I watched as a golden thread twisted around the fingers of a craftswoman, transforming into a flower. This flower wasn’t just decoration. “It’s a symbol of joy,” one of the women explained to me.

Her voice was as quiet as the room itself, where a reverent silence prevailed. Every thread, every stitch carried meaning. “This garment is being made for a wedding,” she added. “Its patterns are blessings for the family, and the gold symbolizes the wealth of the soul.”

I felt as though I were witnessing something ancient, almost sacred. This was not mere labor; it was a ritual, preserving the heritage of ancestors and connecting generations.

SPIRITUAL DEPTH

The Moroccan garment is not just fabric and thread—it reflects the philosophy of Moroccan society. Every element of its design tells a story. Flowers and stars on the fabric symbolize joy and hope, while intricate geometric patterns convey harmony and balance.

This attire embodies Moroccan notions of beauty: beauty that lies in subtlety and refinement. It is not just about outward appearance but an expression of the inner self. A woman wearing it becomes part of something greater than herself, part of a timeless tradition. The spiritual essence of this garment extends to its craftsmanship. The handwoven silk, detailed embroidery, and symbolic patterns are created with a sense of devotion, as if the artisans are offering their work as a tribute to the culture and its people.

TRADITION MEETS MODERNITY

But this traditional garment isn’t just about the past. Today, it confidently steps onto the world’s fashion stages, blending tradition with modernity. I saw this firsthand in the collection of Tamy Tazi, a designer who has breathed new life into traditional designs. Her interpretation was bold yet graceful. One of her creations—a deep blue velvet piece with gold embroidery—looked like a starry night sky. Another—a fiery red silk garment—seemed to capture the sunset over the desert. “We don’t change the soul of the attire,” Tamy said. “We simply let it live in the present.”

Her work proved that traditions can be preserved while making them accessible to the modern world. Her ability to combine classic forms with minimalistic lines and bold colors has made the garment universal.

CONCLUSION: THE MAGIC OF TIME

My journey to Marrakech was a revelation. I realized that the Moroccan garment is more than just clothing. It is a legacy that must not be forgotten, a connection to ancestors, an art that continues in every new stitch. This attire is Morocco. Its soul. Its history. Its beauty. And now, by sharing this story with you, I hope you feel the same magic I experienced. The Moroccan garment is not just a legend of the past—it is a piece of eternity.

PHOTO CREDIT BOOK

“A MOROCCAN PASSION BY FOUNDATION PIERRE

BERGE AND YVES SAINT LAURENT”

PHOTO CREDIT BOOK

“A MOROCCAN PASSION BY FOUNDATION

PIERRE BERGE AND YVES SAINT LAURENT”

“AN

OASIS OF ART: THE BOUTIQUE GALLERY AT THE HEART OF MARRAKECH”

Marrakech unfolds like an ancient manuscript, each page filled with colors, scents, and hidden stories. Among the winding streets of the medina, I discovered a place that felt like a mirage—Khalid Art Gallery, a boutique gallery where fashion meets art, and tradition blends seamlessly with modernity.

Behind the heavy carved wooden doors lay a space bathed in soft light, reflecting off brass lanterns. Fabrics displayed on massive cedar tables resembled an artist’s palette: turquoise like the Atlantic waters, sandy like the dunes of the Sahara, and crimson like the sunsets over Koutoubia. Here, every piece—whether a silk kimono with delicate embroidery or a silver Berber necklace— was not just an object but a story, woven into its very essence.

Amidst these treasures, I had the pleasure of meeting the gallery’s owner, Mr. Khalid El Gharib. His passion for art resonated in every word as he proudly introduced the unique carpets, their patterns reflecting the ancient traditions of the Berber people, and hand-painted ceramic vases that seemed to capture poetry in vivid colors. Each item displayed in the gallery wasn’t merely a product but an expression of Morocco’s soul.

I stopped before a mosaic-framed mirror, trying on an amber necklace that seemed to hold the golden light of Marrakech within. In the reflection, I didn’t just see a visitor—I felt like a part of this enchanting world where art becomes an extension of the human spirit.

This boutique was more than just a store. It was a gallery, a theater, a magical oasis where one could travel through time,

touching fabrics, breathing in the scents of amber and saffron, and hearing the whispers of an ancient city.

Khalid Art Gallery became a true revelation for me. I left with a small silk scarf in my bag and an infinite well of inspiration in my heart. Places like this don’t just sell objects—they offer emotions, transport you into a world of beauty, and make you see art in everything that surrounds us.

text Marina Geisler-Fedan