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CLASS OF 2024: Avant-Garde Alchemy: The Innovative Pulse of Zenit

The Zenit Graduate Show 2024 by Lette Verein Berlin was a striking display of "creativity, inventiveness, and a great sense of innovation." Featuring 91 looks from 18 designers, the show acted as a vivid portfolio for Berlin’s next generation of sartorial talent. While the runway pushed boundaries—occasionally blurring the line between wearable fashion and theatrical costume—this risk-taking was precisely what gave the event its electric energy. Each collection served as a "work of art in clothing," grounded in the rigorous technical training for which the Lette Verein is renowned.

Standout talents like Mateusz Weinert (with the collection "Hanba") and Jana Toebrock ("Her") demonstrated a sophisticated ability to translate complex emotional narratives into tangible, high-fashion silhouettes. From Tess Kozubek’s interrogation of digital influence to the fluid, nature-inspired aesthetics of Ella Froemmel’s "TIDE," the show was a masterclass in eclectic design development. Despite the experimental flair, the collection remained anchored by a strong "sense of craft," ensuring that even the most boundary-pushing looks retained a high-end, structural integrity that impressed the press and industry veterans alike.

Alexander Gigl – “Of old and new”

Alexander Gigl's final collection is titled "Of Old and New" and includes five looks in a black and white color palette. The avant-garde designs include wide fits, extra-long sleeves, and bare midriffs. Tattooed models and one with a mohawk underscore the rebellious punk influences, such as the wide shorts combined with knee socks and boots. The aspiring designer breaks social norms with his designs.

Henriettes Heller – “Identities”

Henriette Anna Heller's graduate collection is dedicated to streetwear. Wide baggy pants and oversized fits are a must. Her designs are inspired by the depths of her inner self and her own story. They are considered a thank you to those around her. A pink oversized hoodie bears the slogan "I love it here," with the love symbol replaced by a heart. The aspiring designer loves doing exactly what feels right for her and letting her creativity run wild.

Jana Toebrock – “Her”

Jana Toebrock's collection, titled "Her," features eight expressive looks. Bright yellow outfits combined with dark blue fur accessories, such as an oversized bucket hat, draw attention, especially since it covers half the model's face. The visual contrast between playful blue and yellow satin, fur, and dark brown faux leather is memorable and inspired by female strength and feminism. The buckled coat is a highlight.

Mateusz Weinert – “Hanba”

Mateusz Weinert's collection, titled "Hanba," addresses the hatred that has spread throughout Polish society, manifesting itself in politics, among other areas. The Catholic Church also plays a role. The bright red, contrasting with white, black, and gray, reflects the suffering. And the silhouettes and shapes provoke by deviating from the norm. "Hanba" is the Polish word for "shame." The designs speak out against socially accepted norms in Poland, particularly regarding gender, sexuality, and lifestyle.

Celina Suchy – “SpeedWear”

Celina Suchy's SpeedWear collection first catches the eye with its brightly colored leather looks, then lingers in the memory with its sleek lines and silhouettes, paying homage to the world of cars and fashion. A vibrant color palette and dynamic lines create a harmonious overall look. The five chic designs are each dedicated to the design and history of a specific car—like a fashionable love letter to iconic automobiles.