Gibran: Polymath Artist in Residence
Polymath def. Greek for having learned much.
Seattle artist Saint Claire in custom Gibran clothing.
Seattle’s vibrance in technology is without question. Attracting creatives of all stripes and backgrounds, and equipping them to launch their products to a new market. We should find it as no surprise that on Phinney Ridge, a former NFL quarterback is bridging the gap between tech and fashion. His name: Gibran Hamdan. Familiar with the discipline needed to connect skill and desire, he has created his own brands and is quietly growing an empire. He offers two distinct brands, both ideal in price point with a plethora of other services. These American-made products are the epitome of high-end daily wear.
The self-taught tailor recognized his need for a new path in life. Drawn first to luxury men's fashion, he found himself designing luxury brand Alial Fital. Its name is derived by reversal of his parents' names.
Phinney Ridge hats from Gibran.
The second line, iconically self-named Gibran, branches out further to include not just clothing for any family member, but also goods and gifts. Carrying the muted color palette we see around much of Seattle, he has wrapped it in his patterning hand with brighter tones. The design lines illusions that wrap the shape of the wearer.
When asked about the pieces in his shop on Phinney Ridge, he says he is not limited to what's on the shelves or racks. He has grown his business to also include custom services and one-of-a-kind pieces. From here, he pivoted to branding, logos, product merchandising and technical skills, available to those that he believes match his philosophy. New York Times contributor Tom Voelk enjoys Gibran’s expertise in product. The Tom Voelk logo is one of his own. This is just a taste of the reach of Gibran. His work extends beyond what is seen in his office and the artists, collaborators and industries he prizes.
With all this success going for him, he clearly identifies his priority and perhaps why he presses organic growth over forced networked connections. His greatest priority are his children, which explains why he and his wife are raising them among the tech dignitaries and entrepreneurially-minded Seattle. Work-life balance is key and is a frequent topic in our area. The business is formed around his interests but also around meeting his desire to be a great father, to Penn and McLaren.
This, he will tell you, is what he does best.
Gibran's children, Penn and McLaren.
A shot of one of Gibran's look boards.
As creatives, we can tell you his pieces are flawless and eye-catching. His polymath mentality mixed with his deep ideals mesh well here, and we can’t help but wonder what future magic he will unleash in our area. He tucked a secret or two of coming endeavors into our meeting, but we won’t steal his thunder. We recommend that you keep your eye on him.
The reality is this, his clothing is impeccable, his creative space is inviting and his skills make him a delight. For your business casual or a night out, go see Gibran and company. We are sure there is a piece for yourself, no matter your need.
From meeting him we see his image is a reflection of something simpler.
Gibran defined is father, creative, polymath.
