How to define Berlin fashion? I’ve always been intrigued and wanted to know more, so signed on for a fashion tour of the city with Berlin Fashion Tours to the shops of independent designers. What I found out is that what immediately comes to mind– all black, techno, punkish,minimalist, vintage, is certainly a part of the fashion scene, but it’s much more varied these days – more colorful, sustainable, form fitting, and practical . Plus, you can find the black techno style toned down and even the kind of clothes I’d wear as I discovered at the shop of designer Esther Perbandt who was a favorite on Project Runway (It was “Making the Cut on Amazon Prime). This is part 3 in a series on Berlin. For part 1, things to do and more, click here. For part 2, where to stay, click here. Here are the designers and their styles:
Black is colorful by Esther Perbandt
Esther Perbandt describes her fashion for men and women “as an act of (post)feminism irrespective of gender. Personality, autonomy and individuality are at the center of her avant-garde style. The non-binary silhouette is deconstructed and reframed with classical menswear details, however, maintaining timeless aspects of elegance and style.” And everything is black.
For me, I saw that it’s about the way the fabric lays, the cut, the geometry. But then all of a sudden there’s a decorative flourish like some netting projecting from the shoulders of a man’s jacket. She does ready to wear, from shorts and pullovers to pants and shorts, dresses and skirts, jackets and coats as well as custom designs. Then there are her accessories – bracelets, belts, earrings, pendants, rings, and glass frames, from a series named “the dream machine”. These were my favorite. She’s thinking of having a popup during Art Basel in Miami and I could definitely see these as a big hit. She also sells online. Here are some of the fashions and accessories:
A.D. Deertz
Owner and designer Wibke Deertz worked in ateliers in Buenos Aires, Hanoi and Bangkok and studied Fine Arts before opening her shop. Her designs for men are classic, sometimes with a witty twist and bow to serendipity. Fabrics are primarily sources from overproduction in Portugal and Italy – cotton, wool, and linen. Brightly colored patterned shirts that would be at home in Miami, offbeat blazers, statement bomber jackets, this menswear shop embraces some of all of the design currents in Berlin (except for the black and techno).
Remesalt
Here each of two designers design and handcraft each piece embracing the concept of genderless fashion and sustainability.They go for the bold and the subtle, for all tastes. Materials are locally sourced and everything is made in house with the exception of select pieces made in Poland. They also work with clients to interpret their fashion vision, creating custom pieces.
For Melinda the emphasis is on style that is simple yet wonderfully made to fit and flatter: dresses, tops and pants.
Not surprisingly, the other designer, the Cadiz born Francisco Remesal Gonzalez loves his color and pattern, often blending art and fashion and varied texture, from Italian silks and brocades to light wools . He designs many of the fabrics, inspired by masterpieces of art (like Gustav Klimt) and photography, made into everything from bomber jackets and silk blouses to palazzos.
Slow Friday
Sustainability is the key word for this shop for men and women that takes into account the social and ecological chain of the product. Products are made from organic cotton, Tencel, Ecovero, linen, virgin wool from certified organic livestock farming, and recycled materials.
Many of the brands are German. Clothes are all about casual, mostly neutral colors, comfortable and practical, a style often seen on the streets throughout the city.
About Berlin Fashion Tours
Berlin Fashion Tours offer shopping tours through Berlin’s hidden spots of various neighborhoods, accompanied by an inspiring fashion lover and expert. The world of green fashion pioneers,a time-traveling shopping experience in Berlin’s most unique vintage shops and local designer ateliers are visited. From high end to affordable. Group tours are offered from 65 Euros per person for three hours and private tours for 4 hours from 390 Euros.
For more information, click here. BERLIN FASHION TOURS PARTNERS engl.[70]
