imagery. courtesy of RIANNA + NINA
In the realm of circular fashion, RIANNA + NINA‘s newest collection has solidified the brand as the crème de la crème of luxury, blending vintage textiles with current touches.
The runway show, taking place on the third day of Berlin Fashion Week, boasted an audience of 220 distinguished attendees within the illustrious halls of the Bode Museum in collaboration with Mercedes Benz – the perfect location to foreshadow the brand’s captivating latest collection, OPERA.
Designer Rianna Kounou grew up surrounded by legendary soprano Maria Callas’ music, leading her and Nina Knaudt to use her music – and incredible life – as the inspiration behind the collection. Speaking after the show, Knaudt said, “Her unmistakable aesthetic subtly influenced every single design of our collection.” The tribute marks 100 years since Callas’ birth and is a true display of RIANNA + NINA’s Greek heritage and vintage treasures coming together in an explosion of exuberance and elegance.
From the sumptuous venue to the recordings of Callas performing the opera Carmen, guests were transported into a new world – an opulent night at the opera.
Opening the show, a long-sleeve maxi dress wowed spectators with ruffle upon ruffle of distinct patterned fabrics and textures. Vibrant blues, reds, greens, yellows, and pinks fought for attention, each popping against the other. Even with a rich belt tied around the waist – to accentuate the female form, of course – the dress looked as free-flowing and comfortable as ever.
The 60s and 70s A-line silhouettes were the centre of attention, dotted throughout the 26 one-of-a-kind looks. Silk organza floated down the runway, enriched with abundant floral prints reminiscent of a Mediterranean summer. Vintage kimono and obi fabrics were reworked into puff-sleeve floor-grazing jackets, wide-leg trousers, and statement belts. Rainbow and patterned sequin capes and sleeves refracted the light, casting a glittery scene and adding texture alongside the silky fabrics. Printed, embellished, and hand-painted tote bags hung lavishly beside the cascading layers of fabric.
Whilst one would imagine the accessories would get lost among the lush garments, they did the opposite, shining bright with hand-placed Swarovski crystals adorning swim goggle-esque sunglasses and oversized statement charms gracing beaded opera necklaces. Fishnet tights peeped out from under midi dresses, ornamented with handcrafted flowers.
Since its founding in 2014, the brand has pioneered sustainability, creating a triumphal legacy by designing handcrafted couture pieces with vintage textiles sourced from across the globe. This season, Kounou and Knaudt have put these values on full display, proving that sustainability – and vintage – can feel equally as contemporary.
As we look towards the future of fashion, RIANNA + NINA is a quintessential brand spearheading not only circularity, but dedication, craftsmanship, and care, as well.
Learn more about RIANNA + NINA by following them on Instagram and visiting riannaandnina.com.
imagery. courtesy of RIANNA + NINA
words. Amber Louise
