Fashion and costume design come together in impressive diversity: KALTBLUT once again had the privilege of visiting the graduates of the Lette-Verein Berlin and capturing the essence of their creative skills behind the scenes of the studio, backstage just before the show, and on the catwalk. With over 100 looks and a series of installations, the budding designers showcased not only their creative potential, but also their passion for pushing artistic boundaries.
One week until the show:
The studio is a meticulously organised chaos: Fabric scraps, designs, pencils, scissors, and complementary accessories for the outfits are strewn across the cutting tables. The finished looks on dress forms offer a glimpse of what the audience can expect to see at the iconic club, Tresor. Some students in the graduating class are meticulously working on the final details and adjustments of their creations. This is the second year in which the program has been divided between fashion and costume design. The fashion design graduates have been tirelessly working on individual collections of six outfits each, while the costume design students have had the freedom to explore beyond the realm of fashion.
The formal part of their graduation, presenting their works to the faculty, is now behind them. What lies ahead is the grand finale, a culmination of three years of education that the graduates see as an opportunity. It marks their first collective public presentation of their work and a chance to utilise the event and the runway as platforms for their individual expressions. From students, they have transformed into artists who understand their craft and confidently present themselves through their creations. The class attaches great significance and emotional depth to their self-organised event.
The graduation collections offer a wide range of styles and themes. Although, there was no direct coordination among the designers, everything comes together in an interesting way. Each designer was free to choose a theme that personally resonated with them, resulting in different aesthetic languages. However, certain overarching themes such as the future, sustainability, and technology emerge repeatedly among some graduates. It is fascinating to witness how the diversity of designs still forms a cohesive unity.
Over the course of three years as a class, the students have influenced one another. Collaboration and exchange have helped them broaden their perspectives and develop their individual skills.
The reasons for choosing between fashion and costume design are personal and individually influenced. Some have chosen fashion because they feel at home with the craftsmanship of fashion design, while others prefer the freedom and conceptual approach of costume design.
In the end, it is the students’ dedication and passion for their upcoming show that exemplify their incredibly high standards. The class has independently and responsibly handled funding, location, logistics, staging, personnel management, as well as press and public relations.
One hour until the show:
In the basement of the rented Berlin club, a scene is set with waiting models, focused makeup artists, and designers filled with anticipation — backstage par excellence.
Some models pose, showcasing the finished creations against a photo wall, moments before stepping onto the runway. Meanwhile, designers scrutinize their work, making final adjustments with needle and thread, a steamer, or simply by hand.
Far away from backstage, guests arrive and admire the works of the costume designers displayed as part of an installation. The arrangements of textile elements and objet d’art create a skillfully juxtaposed contrast to the bar and club atmosphere that fills the space. Just a thank-you speech and a few moments later, music begins, and the first collection opens the show.
Once again this year, the collections impress with their diverse voices. The range of colors, textures, shapes, and subjects is remarkable and surpassed only by the sophisticated staging of the show.
At the graduation presentation of Lette Verein Berlin, the graduates celebrate the convergence of fashion and costume design in impressive diversity. With over 100 looks and various installations, the aspiring designers have demonstrated their creative potential. From the atelier to the backstage frenzy and ultimately the breathtaking runway at the Tresor, the graduates have brought their individual expressions to life. Their passion for their craft and artistry speaks through their creations—an awe-inspiring experience that transcends the boundaries of fashion and design, leaving the audience captivated.
Follow @letteverein_modedesign to keep up with upcoming shows and presentations.
This year’s graduates are:
Leonie Birkmann @karlini.berlin
Luis Steigleder @luissteigleder
Joe Speckter-Völz @ninj0e
Ella Anais Fabricius @studio.majere
Sinah Griessler @sinahgriessler
Alawi Harris @alawinin_
Benjamin Carney @benni.crny
Clara Schwarz @c.marita.elaine
Elias Al-Haschemi @elictricguitar
Emelie Moll @blvd_lvst
Gerrik Boldemann @iamgerrik
Lina Kleinschmitt @qvvile
Luis Krtschil @dirty_needle
Ann-Kathrin Schröder @blum_anni
Leon Taege @leon_protagonist
Paula Kastl @paulakaschtl
Eva Kistner @bunnylikesbeads
Nick Tschurov @nick.scov
