Helsinki Fashion Week was not your average fashion week. Run by entrepreneur Evelyn Mora, this Finnish sartorial showcase was touted as the world’s first 100% sustainable fashion week, offering a platform for labels that are both eco-friendly and fashion-forward. With 30 international brands taking part, the environmentally conscious event celebrated designers with a zero-waste and ethical production approach, and also resulted in a set of runway looks that are inspiring our next-season wardrobes. With no further ado, here is our edit of the brands to know from the milestone event.
Liisa Soolepp
This Estonian designer is focused on luxe, cozy knits, that blend traditional silhouettes with contemporary textures and prints. The ethical label is gaining fame for its quirky, whimsical take on the winter stalwart, proving that “eco chic” is anything but bland.
Saneras
The brainchild of twin sisters Serena and Siliana Arena, this Italian label fuses heritage with simplicity. Crafted for women that enjoy minimalism and functionality in their wardrobes, each piece in the collection speaks volumes without being overbearingly trend-led.
Aubergin
Helmed by designers Nevean Holmes and Anna Uimonen, this Spanish-Finnish label has a focus on “non-trend sensitive designs”. Rich in clean lines, distinct prints, and feminine details, its wearable, covetable collections buck the trend of fast, disposable fashion.
2WO+1NE=2
This Athens-based brand cites myriad cities across the globe as its inspiration, drawing influence from art, architecture, and music in its thought-provoking designs. Playing with proportions, prints, and textures, each piece is akin to a multi-dimensional artwork.
N&S GAIA
This Indian-born brand has a focus on championing hand crafts, incorporating traditional techniques into its eclectic, color-popping collections. Whether crafted from upcycled or sustainable fabrics, key silhouettes are often reimagined each season in a bid to promote slow fashion.
Mai Niemi
This Finnish designer draws inspiration from tales of the Nordic region for her charming, fanciful collections, which bring together age-old references and a modern minimalism.
Nathalia Jmag
This contemporary American designer believes that animals, humans, and the environment should not be harmed in the making of beautiful pieces. With every piece handmade in a solar-powered studio, Jmag’s collections blend a modern approach with a timeless appeal.
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