Image Courtesy of Heinrich Benjamin, Designs by Greta Linkogel, Models Sydney Merrilees @ Izaio Model Management and Isabel Heske.
Get ready to witness an extraordinary convergence of creativity and innovation as the esteemed fashion design department of Weißensee Kunsthochschule Berlin showcases the most captivating Bachelor’s and Master’s graduating collections of 2023. As the Open Days approach, budding designers are set to reveal their individual design perspectives through an eclectic array of garments and accessories.
From conceptual and analytical masterpieces to bold, form-driven experiments, each collection exudes a distinct charm that takes on social, environmental, and historical dimensions. The talented graduates redefine the boundaries of fashion, demonstrating their profound understanding of the industry’s role in the broader social fabric. With a keen eye for blending classical fashion concepts and venturing into uncharted territory, they present projects that push the boundaries, opening new horizons within the fashion realm.
SLEEK dives into the visionary minds of these emerging talents, exploring their diverse approaches to design and commitment to making a meaningful impact both within and outside of the industry.
Image Courtesy of ©KOWA-Berlin.
KILIAN LANDWEHR
“What do you think that white line on the horizon really was?”
Yaffa Eliach’s thought-provoking question sparks the enchanting journey into La Linea Bianca, a captivating men’s collection inspired by the power of hand-drawn lines. Kilian Landwehr’s artistic prowess shines as each creation becomes a testament to the limitless possibilities of this elegant stroke, seamlessly uniting garments with the human form. Fashion enthusiasts eagerly awaited the grand reveal of Kilian’s Master collection at seefashion23, where the runway came alive with the mesmerizing expression of La Linea Bianca, leaving an indelible mark on audiences.
Image Courtesy of ©KOWA-Berlin.
GRETA LINKOGEL
Greta Linkogel’s Master’s collection, “Sincerity Is Scary And Not Enough,” delves into the captivating interplay of costume, kitsch, and non-places. Through her designs, she examines the concept of using decoration as a means to escape and heal from reality. The collection explores the transformation of mundane non-places from everyday life into emotionally charged and playful realms; the designer does this through the expressive clothing on display, striking a perfect balance between wearability and costume, irony and seriousness, and the dream world and reality. Linkogel enchants viewers into a world where clothing becomes a gateway to new emotional dimensions.
Image Courtesy of ©KOWA-Berlin.
NATASCHA DOMINO
Natascha Domino’s Bachelor’s collection, “The Dreamers,” draws inspiration from a 1934 story by Danish author Karen Blixen. Set in the 19th century, the tale follows an opera singer who fakes her own death, assuming various identities and characters. Each outfit in the collection represents a different female character the singer impersonates, showcasing their distinct differences while maintaining their hidden identity. Natascha skillfully plays with the concept of masks and reveals, blending historical shapes with contemporary materials to create a truly mesmerizing and enigmatic fashion narrative.
Image Courtesy of ©KOWA-Berlin.
NELE WESTERKOWSKY
“FLUORESCENCE MICROSCOPY” presents a textile rendition of microscopic bacteria and cells, drawing inspiration from their vibrant colors, organic textures, and intricate structures. Through innovative surface manipulations, the collection captures the abstract essence of these microscopic wonders, offering a unique perspective on their intricacies and beauty. Nele Westerkowsky’s collection brings microscopic worlds to life through stunning pieces, demonstrating the perfect fusion of science and art.
Image Courtesy of Neo.Fashion.
In a groundbreaking endeavor to empower the next generation of fashion visionaries, Neo.Fashion. emerges as a dynamic platform and hub for the finest graduates of fashion colleges from across German-speaking countries. This visionary project is driven by a resolute mission – to champion “Fashion for Future” and present it to a diverse, receptive audience; including professionals and fashion enthusiasts alike, the project reaches it audiences through the esteemed “Best Graduates’ Shows,” exhibitions, digital presentations, and innovative show formats.
This endeavor is an unprecedented undertaking, distinguished by its unique scale and comprehensive scope; it signals a momentous premiere in the promotion of young talent within the German fashion and creative landscape. Underscoring its commitment to sustainability, Neo.Fashion. embraces an environmentally-conscious approach in both organization and execution, driving forward an inspiring vision for a more conscious and responsible industry.
As Neo.Fashion. sets its sights on the future, its aim is to expand and solidify the involvement of all German universities with fashion design programs, nurturing a platform that ignites the potential of emerging designers and reshapes the trajectory of the industry for the better. Neo.Fashion. brings the audience into their world, where innovation, sustainability, and creativity converge to shape the future of fashion.
Image Courtesy of Neo.Fashion.
KATJA BEHRMAN
Step into the intriguing world of “Traditional Conservatism Redefined” – a captivating fashion collection that challenges the notion of history and politics’ influence on trends and consumer needs. Inspired by the significance of rule, religion, and order, the collection masterfully translates conservative structures into modern fashion using gender roles and innovative art. Embracing the paradox of freedom within constraints, the pieces draw from sacred costumes, sacred buildings, and traditional conservative fashion, creating a striking antithesis of meaning. With elements of classicism and baroque, the collection weaves a compelling narrative of evolution and irony, celebrating the power of subtle change in the pursuit of true freedom.
Image Courtesy of Neo.Fashion.
LEILA TORKIAN VALASHANI
Dive into a powerful narrative of courage and resilience with a fashion collection inspired by one emotion: fear. Exploring the connection between fear and freedom, the collection represents a revolutionary fight against oppression and injustice. Designed for both men and women, the garments convey a feeling akin to fright through carefully selected materials and cuts. Through this visually striking collection, the designer aims to raise awareness and solidarity, shedding light on the challenging situation in Iran, where these emotions are being cast aside in pursuit of true freedom.
Image Courtesy of Neo.Fashion.
EUGEN SCHLECT
“ki mir uh”, an enigmatic world and visual collection explores the fascinating concept of genetic chimeras – organisms that contain cells from multiple genetically distinct individuals. The pieces reveal the complexity of these intriguing beings, which can be created naturally or through medical procedures, raising ethical and scientific questions about their existence. Through enticing visuals, “ki mir uh” challenges societal norms and encourages viewers to engage with the unique vestigial elements and form their own opinions on this thought-provoking subject. The collection serves as an open gateway to deeper exploration, allowing individuals to develop their own interpretations and perspectives on the subject of chimeras, an area that continues to give rise to ethical debate.
Image Courtesy of Neo.Fashion.
JULIA KNEIP
“Solarpunk”, influenced by the optimistic genre in literature, envisions a future where environmental and climate crises are overcome. Embodying the positive spirit of the Solarpunk movement, the collection showcases innovative material utilization through upcycling, giving old fabric samples newfound value. With a harmonious blend of reused textile fibers and fabrics, each piece reflects the collectible essence of Solarpunk, celebrating a vibrant synthesis of colors. The enchanting touch of Art Nouveau artistic style adds an elegant and organic flourish, completing the cohesive, visionary aesthetic of the garments. This collection not only celebrates fashion but serves as a manifesto for a brighter, sustainable, and optimistic future.