* Creative Director at Aigner calls Arab women “real fashionistas” Mariam Nihal Saudi Gazette Design is integral to streets, every home and individual freedom. It reflects the complex interplay between the past and current trends with hopes of a better future. Aigner is a renowned German luxury brand in the world. Sure you know the horseshoe motif. Whether it's Jakarta, Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong or Dubai — the fashion and leather collections from Munich are one of the most sought after luxury goods. “Aigner is my creative home. In the last number of years our design team has grown together with this legendary brand,” Christian Beck, Aigner's creative director told Saudi Gazette in an exclusive interview. The brand will be celebrating its 50-year anniversary in 2015. “As a brand, we stand for authenticity in quality and timeless design. Since the seventies, the brand has been an object of absolute desire. We are growing as a company, taking modern trends into consideration, and therefore becoming a little more modern, but our origins are always visible.” For the first time he spoke to a Saudi publication about the brand's history, its rich culture inherent in every collection and the creation of Aigner's Cybill bag. Beck began his journey working with brands like Burberry and JOOP! In 2006 he worked with accessory designer for the German luxury label Goldpfeil. May 2008 was when Beck became part of Aigner and two years later he was appointed Head of Leather & Accessories. By 2012 he took over the entire creative responsibility as the Head of Design at Aigner. Discussing Aigner's market positioning, Beck said there isn't much more than what meets the eye and remains unfazed about competition. “Fashion and especially bags are a highly competitive market. We have to focus on our core competence, leather. This means we must consistently have the best quality, perfect craftsmanship and timeless designs. We have to celebrate our eventful history and embody the Aigner spirit in every collection in a new way; therefore we are our own competition.” We know the fashion trends and our international clients very well. We are watching and listening intently and are tailoring the products to the needs of the different regions.” The new spring and summer collection has the motto Brazilian Beats. Right in time for the World Cup. “It takes you on a journey into the heart of Brazil — to the vibrant metropolis of Rio de Janeiro. The whole collection embodies the beauty and power of South American women.” Aigner understands that high-end fashion should have its own identity and not simply follow the latest trends. The latest bag collections by Aigner are perfect for summer and the Middle East. “The Cybill bag (which is dedicated to Sibylle Schön, CEO at Aigner), Beats, Saffiano and our evening bag Cara are pure fashion and glamor, perfect to ensure that you are bang on trend this year.” The heritage leather range comes in outstanding bold colors including Black, Dahlia, Taupe, Volcano and Ocean. He said the strongest challenge regarding design is to always find the perfect balance between adding the latest trends and remaining true to Aigner's history. “I am keenly aware that in every new collection, there is a new generation that stems from a renowned family tradition.” So how does fashion affect the consciousness of today's generation compared to ten years ago? “A brand is a kind of extension of your personality or your inner thinking. It is still a sign of prestige. The Aigner woman is a strong, self-confident woman who appreciates lasting values. Aigner clients have never been fashion victims who follow every trend!” Describing the classic look for the Arab woman with Aigner, he said: “Arab women are real fashionistas who are extremely well informed about the latest trends! They are proud of the brands that they love and have a strong attachment to powerful colors.” His advice to other aspiring fashion designers is to stay true to yourself and trust in your dreams and ideas. “There is always a next aim and the challenge of creating a new iconic piece is what makes this career so inspiring.”
