Berlin has definitely become a hub of emerging creative talent in both fashion and the arts. Where London may have once provided an unfiltered look at some of the most intriguing new designers, sponsorship races and widespread publicity have somewhat dulled the appeal it once had. Berlin is taking London’s place, with fresh writers and innovative designers.
This past week, emerging and established designers converged for Berlin’s fashion week. Established brands such as A.F Vandevorst and mainstream collections like Escada Sport and Hugo by Hugo Boss joined newcomers Dawid Tomaszewski, Vladimir Karaleev, C’est Tout, and others to present their collections to both local and international fashion industry elite.
Minimalism was a huge theme during the week, with 70s-inspired separates and texturally mixed neo-gothic looks on many runways. Designers Schumacher and Rena Lange managed to successfully ride the second wave of the ubiquitous 70s trend from last season, with influences from Bianca Jagger to equestrian.
The Altuzarra and Hannah Marshall effect was seen at Dawid Tomaszewski, Kaviar Gauche, and Marcel Ostertag, with leather and PVC included in just about every garment. Other standout collections included Esther Perbandt – the androgynous cuts mixed with street art prints made for a collection that would easily blend in with any downtown kid’s wardrobe – and Perret Schaad, who’s easy daywear would fit right in on a runway in New York. We can expect that with the talent shown this week, the designers and Berlin culture at large will become mainstream in no time.
