Young designer Malaika Raiss presented a Spring/Summer collection that captures the hot summer daydream of beach, palm trees and light flowing dresses. Just think of the bright, vivid colours that go along with that picture – the rich lush green of palm tree leaves, and a fresh swimming-pool blue – it was all there. David Hockney’s paintings of 1960s and 70s L.A., and especially the iconic swimming pool scene of „A bigger Splash“ (which also lends the collection its name) were Raiss’ main references.
Raiss used silk, viscose and a light jacquard fabric with palm tree motifs woven especially fort he collection. One of the highlights included a blue leather jacket with round shoulders and baseball inspired details. „That’s a new thing we’re doing,“ says Raiss of her eponymous label. „I’ve been experimenting with leather a lot, and I was finally happy enough with the results to incorporate it into the collection.“ With many designs in a fresh summery white, the printed silk and leather made for an attractive contrast. As a whole, the collection marks a step in a different direction for the label, introducing a casual feel for the otherwise elegant line.
It is always pleasant to see young Berlin labels grow and develop, and MALAIKARAISS has sure come a long way with her fourth collection. “I’m not making clothes for so-called ‘fashionistas’”, she says of her vision to make unique and innovative design a commercial success. “The target audience is any woman, aged 15 to 65. Our sizes go from 34 to 44.” What’s her insider tip on wearable designer fashion? “Try the white dress with the knife pleats in the front and on the back, it suits every body-type.”
Text by Finja Rosenbaum
www.malaikaraiss.com