Founded in Riyadh six years ago, 1886 stands as a trailblazing name in Saudi Arabia’s fashion scene. As the country’s first streetwear brand, it balances heritage with futurism and edginess. With rapid growth and the backing of Vision 2030’s support for entrepreneurship, 1886 has evolved from a homegrown idea into a rising star in the Gulf’s streetwear culture. A recent retail opening at the Yacht Club in Jeddah further solidifies its appeal to millennials and Gen Z.
At its helm are co-founders Fahad Al Jomaiah and Khalid Al Jammaz, who created 1886 with a vision of inclusivity and pride in individuality. The brand’s name isn’t tied to a year, but rather drawn from the founders’ lucky numbers—18 and 86. Their mission? To unite tradition and innovation, offering streetwear that speaks to the future while remaining rooted in identity and craftsmanship.
Their journey began during their student years in London. Al Jomaiah studied business management and Al Jammaz marketing. A chance meeting, a shared passion for fashion, and a desire to represent their generation sparked the genesis of 1886. “We realized we both loved mixing garments to create unique looks. From there, we understood we could make something great together,” they recall.
Their dorm rooms became creative labs, plastered with mood boards filled with everything from vintage London market finds to cutting-edge fabric swatches.
“London’s diverse style culture inspired us constantly. At one point, our rooms had no wall space left—it was clear we were onto something”
At the time, Saudi Arabia’s fashion landscape offered little in the way of streetwear. With the support of third partner Mateb Alzaidi, who oversees operations and logistics, they launched a brand that not only filled a market gap but also challenged expectations about what a Saudi brand could be.
Quality was a non-negotiable. An early setback with a mislabelled batch from a Turkish manufacturer taught them the importance of control and precision. Today, their production is handled in Portugal, where ethical sourcing, transparency, and labor standards align with the brand’s sustainability values.
Durability and attention to detail remain 1886’s pillars. “We don’t aim to outdo foreign brands; we want to offer the best possible quality for our customers—pieces made with care and meant to last,” say the founders. A testament to this ethos was a full collection produced from leftover fabrics, illustrating their commitment to waste reduction and eco-conscious innovation.
But 1886’s appeal isn’t just about garments—it’s a lifestyle and mindset. The brand’s aesthetic often draws from futuristic and technological themes, embracing a vision of fashion infused with innovation. Think: AI, space, robotics, and utopian imagination. “Technology inspires us,” they say.
“We’re fascinated by how humans use it to reshape the world. Fashion is our way of capturing that evolution”
One standout creation was a 3D-printed corset inspired by the myth of Galatea, paired with hand-sewn cashmere puffer pants and complemented by matching printed gloves and a mask—an artistic expression of merging old-world myth with future-forward design.
Their customer promise is clear: technology should make garments more durable, sustainable, and functional—not just aesthetic.
A key part of 1886’s identity is its inclusive community, brought to life through the Flying Monkey Club. The name references a whimsical character that appears on their streetwear—a symbol of curiosity, intelligence, and playful rebellion. The club itself? A non-club.
“There are no rules, no exclusivity. Anyone can join. It’s about self-expression without judgement,” the founders explain.
“It’s a space—mental, not physical—where people look to the future with optimism and creativity”
The response was immediate. Their first Flying Monkey Club cards ran out in a day. The community continues to grow organically, united by a shared sense of belonging and curiosity.
Their personal connection to the brand is more than symbolic. Both founders frequently work on the shop floor and attend pop-ups, engaging directly with customers. “We’re not behind desks—we’re out there talking to our community,” they say.
“We are part of the same crowd that supported us from day one”
Vision 2030 has undeniably shaped 1886’s trajectory. With over 70% of Saudi Arabia’s population under 25, the Kingdom has become fertile ground for youth-led innovation. “It’s an incredibly vibrant time. Without this policy shift, we might have launched in London or Milan. But starting in Riyadh makes us proud Saudis—it means more.”
The brand is already expanding into other GCC countries, with eyes on the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar. Their ambitions? Global.
“From New York to Tokyo via Milan—we’re ready to embrace the challenge”
With bold creativity, a grounded ethos, and a community-first mindset, 1886 is proving that the future of fashion is not only inclusive and sustainable—but unapologetically Saudi.
