If ever you find yourself roaming the charming streets of Berlin, Germany you will want to take this guide along. Nestled throughout the city are hidden gems, in the form of boutiques and department stores, with some of the most fabulous fashion finds available.
Individualism and innovation are nurtured here, which allows indie boutiques to bloom alongside mainstream shops and thrive. Lala Berlin, a boutique that started as a knitwear and scarf producer, sells trendy separates, while Starstyling, a boutique that features photos of their clientele wearing their purchases, offers more artistic and eccentric pieces. The Weinmeister Strasse shopping plaza is rich with fashion that would appeal to the retro hipster type, while Rosen Hoefe and KaDeWe cater more to the modern fashionistas, featuring stores such as MAC, Chanel and high end German designer Kilian Kerner. In addition to new collections hitting the quaint storefronts, the vintage fashion movement has exploded in the European city. Vintage stores such as Stiefelkombinat and Aladdin’s Cave are highly sought after by locals and tourists alike.
Aside from guiding you to the top shops, we also got a sneak peek during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week at the trends that will be popular this year, so you can pack accordingly and arrive in style. Highlights included new collections by Laurels, Dawid Tomaszewski and Malaikaraiss. Fashion in Berlin this season is very clean and features simplistic lines, a dominance of muted palettes and exquisite tailoring.
Laurels chief designer, Elisabeth Schwaiger, brought forth a retro sixties vibe in her new line, incorporating black leather, biker boots and studs. If you are wanting to incorporate this style into your personal wardrobe, opt for a blend of rocker chic accessories on delicate fabrics. A soft t-shirt dress paired with a leather cuff, chain embellished handbag or black booties would be a good starting point.
Designer Malaika Raiss presented a line that was charming and delicate. The designs were simplistic, yet did not bore. The details and original layering allow the line to feel fresh and unique with off-the-shoulder maxi dresses, short-sleeved sweaters, and knits worn over satin dresses. Inspired by the world of botany, Raiss said moss, algae and rocks inspired the palette of green and brown with an infusion of silvery blue nuances. It is a collection for the demure woman who favors youthful fashion.
In contrast to Raiss’ ultra-feminine line, designer Dawid Tomaszewski showed pieces that presented a more masculine side. Tomaszewski stated before the show, “The Tomaszewski woman is changing, she is more masculine.” Shying away from some of the playful designs we have seen in the past, he used more classic cuts, a darker palette and more traditional tailoring. What we adore about this new collection is that, although we witnessed a new serious side in the assemblage of pantsuits, cardigans and wool coats, they were designed in lux fabrics upping their glam appeal. Cashmere, silk and Swarovski stone embellishments allowed the line to feel luxurious and unique. Highlights of the line included an embroidered black sheer blazer and grey cashmere trouser set, and a gray silk evening gown, worn with a black goatskin jacket that would be perfect for an after show gala.
Overall, the fashion was diverse and offered a multitude of options.
Published in the SU2014 Issue of RUNWAY.