On July 10th 2023, invited guests had the chance to witness the opening of ‘Der Berliner Salon‘. With that format that was full of numerous inspirations, Berlin Fashion Week was kicked off. Interesting fact: this group exhibition could be visited by everyone from July 11th on. As location, Crown Prince’s Palace (Kronprinzenpalais) which is one of Berlin’s historic landmarks, was chosen. It was built in 1663, then renovated in 1857 and rebuilt from 1968 to 1970 on. This picturesque building is situated next to the ‘Staatsoper’, only a few metres away from ‘Bebelplatz’ at the well- known boulevard ‘Unter den Linden’. Both this impressive monument and the Princesses’ Palace (Prinzessinenpalais) were once former residences of the Hohenzollern royal family members. When observing its striking architecture, you will recognize influences from baroque and neoclassicism clearly shine through. Its architectural features certainly stay in mind, for instance its colossal order, the pillared portico and massive construction with its classical ornaments. What an impressive building! Worth of mentioning is also the fact several fashion shows were held in this location. They were presented as part of the showcase platform ‘Newest’ and featured selected contemporary designers. With all its blooming fauna, spacy terrace and green garden, this place felt like a welcome resting place within the vivid big city. This location choice which hosted the National Gallery from 1919 to 1937, proves anew how closely fashion and art are connected.
Christiane Arp, Chairwoman of the ‘Fashion Council Germany‘ who is the organizer of ‘Der Berliner Salon‘ and Markus Kurz, Managing Director of ‘Nowadays‘, were the hosts of this promising and incredibly inspiring event. First of all Christiane Arp and Markus Kurz welcomed the guests. The first named who used to be the Editor in Chief of German VOGUE Magazine for 18 years, held a speech to open this event and welcomed the guests. Her engagement is very important for the German fashion industry, she is also part of the organizing team of Berlin Fashion Week. They both examined the history of ‘Der Berliner Salon‘ which exists since 2015 and also emphasized their engagement for sustainability. With a unique mix of both established labels and numerous upcoming talents, this event was a true inspiration for everyone interested in fashion and arts.
Then Franziska Giffey, Berlin’s State Senator for Economy, Energy and Enterprise, addressed to the audience. She appreciated the people working in the fashion industry’s role – not only because of their creative work, but also as this sector plays a major role from an economic point of view. Afterwards both Christiane Arp and Franziska Giffey visited the creations of the designers and discussed their projects with them.
The group exhibition united fashion, accessory, jewellery- and interior design talents. Exactly this colourful mix made this event very inspiring. The 51 designers that showcased their collections during ‘Der Berliner Salon‘ focused on sustainability and highest quality. The concept contained a multi-day program which comprised several salon events to present the public a selection of Germany’s most relevant and upcoming talents. The holistic approach of this event plays a central role. This aspect is even decisive for the participation in this event: designers are therefore committed to the sustainable and contemporary development and production of their ranges. Upcycling played a central role too. In that context, we viewed the latest collections of several designers our readers should know from previous articles, such as Emeka Suits who produces its suits from recycled clothing pieces in rural Kenya. Some of the participating labels were: Lanuk Studios, Emeka Suits, Fassbender, Juliana Maurer, Assembled Half and Susumu Ai. You can watch their creations while reading our article. Some other designers that exhibited their collections were: Kitschy Couture by Abarna Kugathasan, Acceptance Letter Studio, Aer Scents, Anne Bernecker, Dennis Chuene, Gezeiten, Haderlump, Hap Ceramics, Haram, Horror Vacui, International Citizen, Laura Gerte, Leinz Contemporary Eyewear Berlin, Mies Nobis, Pascal Konradi, Tebton, Rita in Palma, Richert Beil, Zamt Studios and many others.
We left this group exhibition with lots of inspirations. It was highly interesting to observe the innovative ideas of many established, but also upcoming labels had for a sustainable future in the fashion industry.
Review and Images by Sussan Zeck for DSCENE Magazine
