We present you with the latest look book displaying the recent work of Larissa von Planta x Alsama Studio. 

Larissa is a skilled designer and tailor. She studied at Central Saint Martins before establishing a sustainable haute couture atelier in Beirut, whilst nurturing relationships with Lebanon’s finest artisans.

After the shock of the devastating Beirut Port Explosion on the 4th of August 2020, in the city Larissa had come to love and call home, she questioned how she could help the artisans she had been working with at the Alsama Studio. As is often the case in crisis situations, the idea distilled very clearly and simply. She asked her close friends to send their pre-owned items of clothing to her with a fee of £100. These items were then sent to Beirut where the exceptionally talented women artisans, from Lebanon, Palestine and Syria embroidered the garments with beautiful, unique designs before sending them back. 

The first collection in August 2020 consisted of 27 items. In a mere 7 months, an amazing response has led to this growing to over 200 items. These clothes provided the embroiderers with crucial support in the aftermath of the explosion. Now the LVP x Alsama project aims to be an ongoing source of stability in the ever worsening economic situation in Lebanon. Each customer who sends an item will provide long-term support to 36 women artisans in Beirut who in return transform a pre-loved item of clothing or homeware with unique hand embroidery. 

Larissa organises three yearly collections of pre-owned clothes in May, October and February to be sent to the artisans. Her up-cycling concept combines simplicity of operations with delicate craftsmanship and that’s why it works so well. Each customer who sends an item of clothing provides long-term support to 36 women artisans who will transform your item of clothing with unique hand embroidery. On top of this, customers have the opportunity to select their preferred colours for an extra personalised finished piece. 

By the 1st of May 2021 Larissa aims to collect a further 200 pieces! To help and get involved all you need to do is visit our website shop, then send an item to your most convenient collection point in London, Austria, Switzerland, Beirut or Dubai. Your garment will be returned to you within two months of the collection date.