Eric Mathieu Ritter’s Vision For Sustainable Style
Emergency Room Beirut
ERIC MATHIEU, PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALY SAAB
Lebanese fashion designer Eric Mathieu Ritter is the founder of Emergency Room Beirut, a brand known for its commitment to sustainability and social impact. Growing up in Beirut, Ritter draws inspiration from its rich cultural tapestry, infusing his collections with unique narratives that celebrate local craftsmanship. Focused on upcycling and ethical production, he aims to challenge traditional fashion norms while empowering local artisans. DIVAZ spoke with him about his vision for Emergency Room redefining fashion as a force for positive change in the region.
Tell us about your background. How have your cultural experiences shaped your identity?
Growing up in Beirut, a city at the crossroads of many cultures, my upbringing was naturally infused with a mix of influences. As I got older, I became curious about Lebanon’s incredible diversity, which deepened my understanding of the universal values that connect us all. This journey shaped my identity as a designer and my approach to the world.
What inspired you to create Emergency Room Beirut, and how does the brand reflect your vision for fashion in the region?
Early on in my career, I took on various jobs that made me question my passion for fashion, seeing it as superficial. However, working with an NGO focused on social development reignited my love for creating clothes with purpose. Surrounded by artisans, I rediscovered the craft’s joy and realized fashion could be sustainable, meaningful and respectful of people and the environment. The global shift toward these values inspired me to launch Emergency Room.
How does the cultural landscape of Beirut influence your designs and the overall aesthetic of Emergency Room?
Beirut’s diverse visual identity greatly influences my designs. The city’s mix of influences and aesthetics creates a unique identity, which I capture in my work. Beyond aesthetics, Beirut is a melting pot of ideas. And conversations with peers—on cultural and social topics—continuously fuel my thought process and shape the direction of each collection.
Sustainability is a significant focus in fashion today. How does Emergency Room Beirut approach sustainable practices in its production processes?
Sustainability is at the heart of Emergency Room Beirut. We produce everything locally in Lebanon, ensuring ethical treatment of garment workers. We champion upcycling on a large scale in the Arab world, minimizing waste by reusing materials or repurposing them. We also use locally sourced dead stock materials for new pieces. Sustainability isn’t just a trend for us; it’s fundamental to our brand’s DNA.
Photography by Aly Saab
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a designer and entrepreneur in Lebanon’s current economic and social climate?
The most obvious challenge has been the constant setbacks—major crises almost every year slow our progress. Being far from global fashion capitals also makes it difficult to connect with wholesalers or industry professionals. Despite this, I remain hopeful. We continue to grow at our own pace, believing that a lasting brand is built gradually, not overnight.
In what ways do you believe fashion can shape or express identity, particularly in a city as dynamic as Beirut?
Fashion is an evolving conversation that spans art and utilitarian clothing. In Beirut, fashion allows people to express their identities in nuanced ways, navigating the complexities of the city’s cultural and social landscape. Despite challenges, Beirutis are learning to use fashion as a powerful form of self-expression.
