Atlal from Galbi is a Sartorial Testament to the Power of Culture

Lilia Yasmin was a student in the United States when a deep longing for her family and heritage engulfed her. To reconnect with the Algerian culture of her youth, she would often listen to Om Kalthoum and Algerian Raï music. An idea struck her to create a platform that curates her Arab heritage through music, fashion, art, and culture. This marked the inception of Atlal from Galbi. The name is a reflection of the music she cherished during her time in the United States - 'Al Atlal' or 'The Ruins,' a classic by the Egyptian diva, and 'Galbi,' meaning 'heart.'

“Since I was young, I've aspired to create a brand that embodies Arab culture through fashion and the arts,” says French-born Yasmin. Despite being born and raised in France, her family hails from the Algerian towns of Mazouna and Oran. “As a child of Algerian immigrants growing up in France, there was a lack of Arab identity in popular culture, leading to a sense of exclusion for French-Arabs.”

Yasmin came to realize the significant influence held by the fashion industry during her fashion internship at Louis Vuitton. It became clear to her that this industry could be a conduit to fulfill her childhood dream of creating a community that expresses Arab culture. “As I matured, I embraced the vibrancy and cheerfulness that define Algeria. It is this vivacity and joy that I wanted to share with the world.”

Atlal from Galbi adopts a simple and minimalistic approach, infusing everyday pret-a-porter clothing with hints of Algerian flair. “Growing up, my grandmother was always sewing, using textured fabrics, brocades, and materials for dresses. I've incorporated some of these designs, including silks and satins beloved by my grandmother, to pay homage to her. We even have a hoodie featuring the Algerian kardoon thread,” Yasmin shares.

The brand aims to evoke an era of Arab femininity exemplified by divas like Oum Kalsoum and Warda. “Arab women have always been powerful figures in our society, despite the Western perceptions. Atlal from Galbi seeks to emphasize this power.” All of the brand's items are crafted in France with the assistance of Algerian seamstresses.

Commenting on the current cultural climate in France regarding Arab culture, Yasmin says, “France has become incredibly diverse, with a strong Arab presence. Despite the current anti-Arab sentiment in the country, the influence of France’s Arab community is palpable.” Atlal from Galbi has become a part of this French-Arab identity. “Our Yves Saint L’Oran t-shirt has gained immense popularity. It pays tribute to the French designer by simultaneously highlighting his birthplace, Oran, Algeria.”

Items from Atlal from Galbi will soon be available at the EMPTY store in Seoul, South Korea, with plans for worldwide distribution in the works. “We aim to spread this culture far and wide,” Yasmin emphasizes.