1886: The Bold Saudi Streetwear Brand Reimagining Arab Identity
In the rapidly evolving fashion landscape of the Middle East, 1886 stands out not merely as a streetwear label but as a cultural force. Launched by Fahad Al-Jomaiah and Khalid Aljammaz, the brand has swiftly emerged as one of Saudi Arabia’s most influential streetwear names. Fusing minimalist design, bold iconography, and deep-rooted cultural references, 1886 offers a new visual language—one that confidently expresses Arab pride, urban defiance, and generational identity.
Founders: Fahad Al-Jomaiah & Khalid Aljammaz
At the helm of 1886 are two forward-thinking creatives, Fahad Al-Jomaiah and Khalid Aljammaz, who share a passion for culture, innovation, and boundary-breaking aesthetics. Both bring complementary skill sets—one grounded in artistic expression, the other in strategic brand-building.
Their vision for 1886 wasn’t born out of trend-chasing but out of a desire to reclaim narrative control over how Saudi youth are seen, styled, and heard. As young Saudis themselves, they recognized the disconnect between imported fashion templates and local cultural realities. Their brand is a response to that gap—a platform where identity isn’t diluted, but amplified.
Brand Philosophy: Culture Meets Counterculture
The philosophy behind 1886 is rooted in cultural duality—a dialogue between heritage and modernity. The brand’s mission is to create clothing that resonates with global urban sensibilities while remaining unapologetically Saudi. In many ways, 1886 reclaims streetwear not as a Western export, but as a medium of self-expression for Arab youth.
The name “1886” itself carries mystique. Though it does not refer to any specific year or historical event, it reflects a numerical identity that blends minimalism with conceptual ambiguity—leaving room for interpretation, curiosity, and deeper brand engagement.
Design Language: Minimalist, Conceptual, Disruptive
1886 has developed a signature style that balances clean structure with subversive messaging. The collections feature a mix of oversized silhouettes, sleek tailoring, deconstructed forms, and premium fabrics. Neutral color palettes—think black, beige, and white—often dominate, but are punctuated by graphic symbols, Arabic typography, or architectural motifs inspired by Saudi cities.
Signature elements include:
- Bold slogans (often in Arabic) challenging conformity and celebrating identity
- Asymmetrical cuts and layered textures
- Streetwear staples such as bomber jackets, hoodies, cargo pants, and utility vests
- High-quality tailoring that elevates the perceived value of streetwear in luxury spaces
The result is fashion that feels intellectual yet wearable, high-concept yet grounded in street culture.
Business Model: Exclusivity and Scarcity
1886 operates on a limited-drop business model, releasing carefully curated collections rather than flooding the market with seasonal lines. This approach creates hype, urgency, and community around each release. Every drop feels like an event—carefully marketed through teasers, influencer endorsements, and moody editorial content.
By avoiding mass production, 1886 maintains an aura of exclusivity, catering to fashion-forward consumers who value individuality and rarity.
Retail Footprint: Digital-First, Culture-Driven
The brand’s retail presence is primarily digital, which aligns with its Gen Z and Millennial target audiences. Through an immersive website and strong Instagram storytelling, 1886 blurs the line between e-commerce and cultural publication.
While the brand is headquartered in Saudi Arabia, it ships internationally and has garnered a growing customer base across the GCC, Europe, and even the U.S. Its pop-up stores and event-based retail activations have also allowed the founders to bring the brand physically into urban spaces—fusing fashion drops with art, music, and performance.
Cultural Collaborations: Tapping into the Creative Pulse
1886 is more than a clothing label—it’s a creative hub that collaborates with regional artists, photographers, filmmakers, and musicians. These collaborations have led to:
- Music video styling for Saudi and Gulf-based artists
- Short films and visual editorials exploring identity and urban life
- Collaborative capsule collections with other Arab creatives
Through these partnerships, 1886 positions itself at the heart of Saudi’s youth culture, blending fashion with broader artistic narratives.
Influencer and Celebrity Network
1886 has organically attracted the attention of Arab and international celebrities who resonate with its aesthetic and message. Regional fashion influencers, artists, and stylists regularly feature the brand in their content, helping to build grassroots credibility.
Unlike conventional brands that chase celebrity endorsements, 1886 works more authentically, often collaborating with figures who already reflect the brand’s ethos of individuality and bold expression.
Youth Engagement: Representing a Generation
1886 speaks to a generation of young Arabs who are tired of being misunderstood or stereotyped. For these youth, fashion isn’t about following trends—it’s about asserting voice, roots, and rebellion. 1886 garments become tools of empowerment, allowing wearers to challenge norms and reclaim cultural space in public discourse.
In Saudi Arabia’s rapidly liberalizing cultural climate, 1886 has become a symbol of soft power, enabling expression in a historically restrained environment. Its widespread appeal among young Saudis is also fueled by the brand’s values of diversity, openness, and inclusion.
Global Positioning: Arab Identity in Global Streetwear
As global streetwear brands increasingly seek authenticity, 1886 offers a rare proposition: genuine cultural depth blended with modern street fashion. Unlike brands that appropriate Arabic calligraphy or desert motifs without context, 1886 originates from the region, offering real narratives and lived experiences.
This positions 1886 to become a global leader in culturally driven streetwear, especially as fashion consumers demand more ethical, diverse, and purpose-led brands. Fahad and Khalid are actively building cross-cultural bridges, participating in international fashion weeks, creative showcases, and global retail platforms that amplify Arab talent.
1886 as a Cultural Ecosystem
What sets 1886 apart is not just its fashion, but its ability to function as a cultural ecosystem. It’s part apparel brand, part art house, part social statement. Through bold yet minimalistic design, the brand brings visibility to modern Arab aesthetics that are often left out of mainstream fashion narratives.
By seamlessly connecting streetwear with cultural heritage, 1886 has opened new dialogues on identity, modernity, and expression in the Arab world. The brand doesn’t just reflect youth culture—it shapes and elevates it.
With each collection, campaign, or collaboration, 1886 further cements its role as a creative catalyst for a new, confident generation of Saudis and Arabs.
Conclusion: 1886 – Streetwear With Soul, Depth, and Direction
1886 is not just a fashion label—it is a statement of purpose. It tells the world that streetwear can be local and global, rebellious and respectful, cutting-edge and culturally rich. Founded by Fahad Al-Jomaiah and Khalid Aljammaz, the brand offers more than garments—it offers identity, dignity, and defiance.
In the years ahead, 1886 is well-positioned to scale into global fashion relevance while maintaining its authenticity. As Saudi Arabia embraces cultural renaissance and creative freedom, 1886 will likely remain at the forefront of this revolution—not just dressing a generation, but defining its voice.
