Showcase

"RAGS" (of resilience)

Benét Matthias

Profile picture of Benét Matthias

BY BENÉT is a knitwear brand founded in 2019 by Benét Matthias (also known as B). From her beginnings crafting garments in her room, Benét has established a brand ethos deeply rooted in sustainability and innovation. Drawing upon recycled and dead-stock yarns, she transforms these materials into wearable art pieces that challenge conventions and redefine knitwear.

Benét's creative vision is a fusion of futurism and architectural elements. This unique blend manifests in her designs, which are not just garments but statements of individuality and empowerment. As a black designer in the UK, Benét recognizes the power of self-expression through clothing. It is a means of reclaiming narratives, celebrating identity, and advocating for greater diversity within the fashion industry.

Central to the philosophy of BY BENÉT is the exploration of non-traditional techniques and silhouettes. Each piece is a canvas where proportion, defects, flaws, and imperfections are embraced, creating a dialogue between the garment and its wearer. The result is an aesthetic that is both bold and nuanced, inviting individuals to embrace their own uniqueness without reservation.

BY BENÉT is a knitwear brand founded in 2019 by Benét Matthias (also known as B). From her beginn...

•exploring the Black woman who navigates, adapts and conforms to societal constraints. she rises above them, and reclaims her narrative through being a "SCAVENGER".

this collection is a narrative of self-expression, resilience, and reclamation, exploring the intersection of identity and survival. drawing inspiration from the strength of Black womanhood, it reflects themes of adaptability, protection, and transformation. the designs incorporate primary visual research from elements such as skin, hair, braiding, armour, and the protective adaptations found in animals, like scales and fur. Through these influences, the garments act as both shields and symbols of resistance, allowing the wearer to confront societal constraints while asserting her individuality.

Final work

  • Black and white elastic knitted sample
  • Scale like brown knitted fabric
  • Fringe knitted sample
Various knitted samples on a rail
Knitted bodysuit, dress with points, and black dress
  • Brown felted dress,corset and black knitted dress
  • Silver pleated fabric
  • Green and brown knitted samples

Research and process

  • Moodboard with animals skin markings scales and braiding
  • Leather moulding and knitted samples
  • Pleated knitted samples
  • Dotted mark makings
  • Knitted and leather experiments
  • Knitted fur and painting

Share this project

"RAGS" (of resilience)

•exploring the Black woman who navigates, adapts and conforms to societal constraints. she rises above them, and reclaims her narrative through being a "SCAVENGER".this collection is a narrative of self-expression, resilience, and reclamation, exploring the i...

A link to this page has been added to your clipboard

Browse related work