Scenographer Ibby Njoya turned one of Hermès’ classic silk scarf designs into an immersive setting celebrating creativity and self-expression.
Key features
Depicting two 19th-century ceremonial bridles, Hermès’ Brides de Gala scarf – designed in 1957 by Hugo Grygkar – speaks to the brand’s equestrian heritage and craftsmanship. Ibby Njoya was asked to interpret the classic design for Brides de Galaxy, an event recently held in an industrial London studio. An immersive set reminiscent of a dreamscape desert planet emerged from this commission, which guests entered through the so-called Silky Way, a landing trail of strip lights. Awaiting them inside was a super-saturated interior topography, with five distinct areas reflecting the scarf’s various iterations through its history. These spaces included a relaxation zone, bar, ‘enchanted valley’ try-on area, ‘Love Garden’ and central dancefloor illuminated in an atmospheric red glow. Performances by musician Hope and ballet dancer Marcelino Sambé enlivened the space, encouraging people to explore the dynamic set.
FRAME’s take
For a heritage brand like Hermès, iteration is a powerful thing. Reimagination – not reinvention – keeps classic products fresh, renewing consumer interest while retaining brand identity rooted in tradition. Njoya’s Brides de Galaxy set literally expanded upon Hermès’ silks universe (led by creative director Cécile Pesce), with the filmic scenography a medium to tell the story behind Brides de Gala. The idea that a single product’s history should be rich enough to unlock an entire creative space supports Hermès’ reputation as a brand with substance. Wielding this opportunity to build community is where the enduring value comes in.