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Author name: Saskia Clarke

Design

Just Like A Dream, an Interview with Matthew Williamson

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photography Erik Lefvander image courtesy Dusty Deco For over two decades, Matthew Williamson has captivated the design world with his fearless use of colour, print, and an unmistakable sense of joy. Rising to prominence in the late 1990s with his iconic fashion label, he quickly became synonymous with vibrant pattern and expressive design. Since then, his creative universe has expanded into interiors, textiles, and lifestyle, each project reflecting a deeply personal vision infused with optimism and escapism. Today, from his sun-drenched home in Mallorca, and through collaborations including his recent work with Dusty Deco, Williamson continues to refine and reimagine his aesthetic — guided by a creative philosophy rooted in emotion, storytelling, and the transformative power of design. Jahwanna Berglund: When you think about the arc of your life in design, what is the moment that changed you the most – not as a professional, but as a person?   MW: I am proud of my body of work now. Perhaps I wasn’t so much when I was younger, but I now have perspective and a lot of experience and learned skills from over the years. I know much more now about the kind of work I want to do. I’m more focused on my vision rather than other people’s ideas about what I should do.   I guess choosing to stop working in fashion and moving to Mallorca changed me as a person, and having my daughter Skye has also had a huge positive impact. My lifestyle now is as I want it to be; it suits me, but it takes a long time to get there and feel settled and comfortable where I am now.   JB: Reflecting on your early fashion career, how has your creative voice evolved, and when did you truly find it, moving beyond industry expectations?   MW: I guess back then, in the fashion career days, I was on autopilot, doing show after show, year after year, for the buyers and the approval of the press. However, as I’ve aged, I’ve started to do the work that I want to do more and more. I’ve learned that in the creative industries, you can’t please everyone all the time, so now I do work I like and am drawn to myself, and simply hope some others will like it too. It’s a bonus if it’s well-received, but it’s not necessarily the driving force. image courtesy Dusty Deco JB: You have always designed with a sense of joy and colour. What does colour represent for you today?   MW: Colour has always been my creative language. I’m not great at working with neutrals; I find them a little flat and lifeless. I’m drawn to saturated colours – not always necessarily bright colours, but they have to be interesting. I think we all see colour differently; it’s deeply personal what we are drawn to. I often find people are scared or timid around using colour, but I feel very comfortable in that sphere and love using joyful colours. It lifts the spirits and brings smiles to people’s faces.   JB: Moving from fashion into interiors is not simply a change of medium, but a change of mindset. What did you need to unlearn or relearn in that transition?   MW: There’s a lot of overlap between fashion and interiors, so it definitely felt like a career pivot rather than learning a whole new skill set. Interior work is a little slower-paced, and you are creating things that will hopefully last a lifetime rather than just a season, so it feels a little more sustainable, less transient, more solid, and meaningful. My team is much smaller now, so I’ve had to learn how to take on many more aspects of the work myself, and also how to work with a tight-knit team to get the best results out of them and me.   JB: When you shape a space, is it an extension of the fashion designer you once were, or does this process connect you to another side of your identity? MW: I think I still aim for the same results. I always want to make something beautiful, joyful, practical, and never too expensive if possible. Be it clothing, products for the home, or interiors, I think my goal is always simply that and to improve the quality of what I do every time.   JB: What drew you to Dusty Deco and what did you see in their design world that resonated with your own sensibility?   MW: I love the work of Dusty Deco. I followed them on Instagram and was a fan. When they approached me to collaborate, it was a straightforward yes! I find their work to be super chic and cool. Edin and Lina have a wonderful, unique style. It’s artistic, eclectic, and full of their personalities. They are so good at creating an inspiring interior vibe, and I knew it would be a successful partnership if I could bring my skills to their brand.   JB: Can you describe the first spark or image that came to you when you began imagining this collaboration with Edin and Lina?   MW: Lina was keen for textiles to be the hero of our range, so I immediately started painting in my studio what has now become the “Beaten Track” upholstery fabric for their sofas and daybeds. It’s a little abstract watercolour pattern, imagining a favourite walk in Deià, where I live, from an aerial view. I wanted to create a print that felt 50% Dusty Deco and 50% Matthew Williamson. I also wanted the print to feel fresh, yet something that would age well. JB: When two strong visual languages meet, there is always a moment of alignment. Where did that alignment happen for you and Dusty Deco?   MW: From day one, we aligned. We were lucky as we were great working partners with mutual respect for each other’s strengths and brands, and now we’ve become good friends, so it’s been

News

COS Ballerina

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COS Ballerina Few silhouettes have captured the mood of the season quite like the ballerina flat. Blending nostalgia with modern minimalism, the style continues to evolve as a versatile wardrobe essential—and COS offers its own refined interpretation with a design that feels both contemporary and timeless.   True to the brand’s signature aesthetic, the new ballerina shoes combine clean architectural lines with soft, supple materials, creating a silhouette that is elegant without feeling overly delicate. The understated design allows the craftsmanship to take centre stage, making them an effortless companion to both sharp tailoring and relaxed, everyday dressing.   Designed with longevity rather than fleeting trends in mind, the shoes embody COS’s philosophy of thoughtful design and functional luxury. Whether paired with fluid dresses, wide-leg trousers, or crisp summer separates, they offer a quiet sophistication that seamlessly transitions between occasions. Now that the collection has officially launched, the ballerina flats stand out as one of the season’s most wearable investments—proof that simplicity, when executed well, never goes out of style. image courtesy COS

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Dr. Martens AW26: Desert Rodeo & Buzz

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Dr. Martens AW26: Desert Rodeo & Buzz Ahead of AW26, Dr. Martens continues to explore the intersection of heritage, subculture and self-expression with the introduction of two new collections: Desert Rodeo and Buzz. Together, they reflect the brand’s ability to reinterpret iconic design codes through a contemporary lens while remaining rooted in the craftsmanship and attitude that have defined Dr. Martens for decades.   Desert Rodeo offers a modern take on western-inspired silhouettes, combining rugged workwear influences with refined proportions, fringe detailing and the unmistakable Quad sole featuring the brand’s signature air-cushioned construction. Designed as enduring wardrobe staples rather than trend-driven pieces, the collection balances everyday functionality with a distinctive edge. Launching in July, Desert Rodeo reinforces the timeless appeal of western dressing through the unmistakable Dr. Martens perspective.   Arriving in August, Buzz marks the next evolution of the brand’s breakout platform silhouette. Originally inspired by chunky archive styles from the 1990s, the collection returns for AW26 with elevated leathers, tactile textures and an expanded colour palette. Standout styles including the Buzz Hi Brown Gloss and Buzz 5-Eye Croc are joined by new iterations such as the Buzz Hi Croc and Buzz 6-Eye, further developing the silhouette with fresh proportions and premium finishes.   Together, the AW26 collections demonstrate how Dr. Martens continues to evolve without losing sight of its roots—moving effortlessly between western-inspired utility and bold platform silhouettes while championing individuality, durability and unmistakable attitude. image courtesy Dr. Martens

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Lazoschmidl SS27 “DAYNIGHT”

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Lazoschmidl SS27 “DAYNIGHT” For SS 2027, Lazoschmidl presents at Goethe Institute a wardrobe for slept-in mornings, in-between supermarket runs and late-night conversations. A celebration of moments usually considered too mundane to be dressed for. This season began with a fascination for everything that happens at home — the moments before we become presentable to the world and after we return from it. Like quickly getting dressed and running a small errand around the neighbourhood. These small moments of self-presentation became the foundation for a new idea of dressing. It echos the FW26 concept of getting ready for people outside, but with a more intimate and personal angle.   Underwear is no longer hidden, it becomes outerwear. A temporary uniform for stepping outside and being seen. You leave the house in your swimwear, you stay out longer than planned, you invite people into your home with less preparation. The body becomes less hidden, and clothing becomes more playful and spontaneous. A new category of home and leisurewear emerges: plush bathrobes, comfy lounge shorts and ribbed cotton sets of classic y-front briefs paired with matching tanks finished with nostalgic contrast piping. The collection may look effortless and playful, but there is a strong attention to construction : developing a perfectly fitted brief, combining multiple prints or balancing unexpected fabrics requires precision. The visual universe is inspired by countless binge watch sessions of The Golden Girls and Grace and Frankie – a world of faded interiors, patterned wallpapers and the beauty of everyday domestic life. There is an interest in the aesthetics of things that were once considered old-fashioned or unfashionable and giving them a new sense of desirability. Whether it’s vintage-home series-inspired or previous-collections-inspired, Lazoschmidl gathers their collections around time : a grandmother’s floral print becomes sexy, a bathrobe becomes a coat, giraffe-print jersey trousers are paired with bougie translucent chiffon tops. Innovation comes from shifting the context of familiar objects and giving them a new meaning.   Their previous collection explored the act of becoming — the rituals of preparation, dressing and constructing an image before entering public life. This season looks at what happens once the performance is over. It embraces comfort, imperfection and the intimacy of domestic space. Being their most relaxed collection to date, it echos the brand’s will to explore and question the intimacy and the way we can perform it. image courtesy Emanuel Koroly

Fashion Articles

Melodies & Desires, An Interview with Newkid

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For Newkid, music is just as much about memory and emotion as it is about melody. From the first tentative piano chords to imagining the perfect live set.   Having carved out a distinct place in the Swedish music scene over the past decade, Newkid reflects on the different phases of his career, the personal experiences that have shaped his sound, and the evolution of his creative process. From club bangers to intimate power ballads, fatherhood and nostalgia.    In this conversation, he opens up about his current musical chapter, his visual expression, and the enduring passion that drives him to create. Here he presents a story about songs, synths, stagecraft, and the very human desire to make art that’s truly yours.   Elsa Chagot: You’ve been part of the Swedish music scene for a while now and gone through several phases – how are you feeling right now, where do you stand musically and personally?   Newkid: I’ve been around for quite a long time now. My first record came out in 2011, so quite a few years have passed, and during this time,  I went through different eras. You change as a person. There was a period when I was single and making a lot of club music, playing in clubs all the time. Then I had a period where I wrote a lot of break-up songs, because I’d just gone through a break-up myself. I also became a dad two years ago, and that’s a huge thing in life. It changes a lot. I think the music has been influenced by that in some way. An Interview with Newkid text Elsa Chagot coat FAYETTE / NORLING t-shirt Emporio Armani / Zalando jeans adidas Originals / Zalando sneakers New Balance  EC: Does it feel like you’re entering a new musical era compared to earlier chapters of your career?   Newkid: I call the new era my power ballad era. t’s a bit meta because I actually grew up with parents who listened to power ballads. When I was a kid, that’s the music they usually played at home. And now it almost feels like a full-circle moment.   The tempo is a bit slower as well. I’m not at the club anymore. I like gigs that happen earlier in the evening, where it’s not quite as intense. So in a way, life and music go hand in hand. I’m in a calmer stage right now, trying to figure out who this new version of me is. It’s still quite new.    EC: In that case, I have to ask, what is your all-time favourite power ballad song?   Newkid: Forever Young. It’s one of those songs that’s been with me since I was a kid, dancing to slow songs at school discos. It just has this incredible power – a really special kind of energy. I have so many memories in my life connected to that song that I can bring back whenever I hear it. I genuinely love it.   EC: In that case, I have to ask, what is your all-time favourite power ballad song? Newkid: Forever Young. It’s one of those songs that’s been with me since I was a kid, dancing to slow songs at school discos. It just has this incredible power – a really special kind of energy. I have so many memories in my life connected to that song that I can bring back whenever I hear it. I genuinely love it.   EC: When you create music, where does it usually start for you: with a feeling, a lyric, a melody, or something else entirely?   Newkid: Nine times out of ten, I start by writing the chords and the melody. I basically write all my songs on the piano first. It’s a very intuitive process; you sit down, and you’re feeling a certain way that day. I try not to think too much about it. If anything, I try to think as little as possible. I just play and sing and see what feels right. Something in it sort of pulls you in a certain direction, and you realise, okay, this is the path to follow.   Once I have the melodies and chords, I usually start figuring out the lyrics. Sometimes when you’re sort of mumbling a melody to yourself, a random word slips out, and occasionally I’ll latch onto one of those words and start building from there. I’ll ask myself: what does this song feel like, even before there are any real lyrics?  coat and jumper BOSS necklace with rose KSV Jewellery  cross necklace Talent’s own  earstud worn throughout  Talent’s own  coat FAYETTE / NORLING denim jacket MADH  jeans Levi’s sneakers New Balance EC: What are you working on right now, and what can you tell us about the project and about your release, Hurricane?  Newkid: Right now, I’m working on the songs that will be released in the autumn; the whole project will have ten tracks in total. That’s really why I’m in the studio at the moment. I’m here about three days a week. One day a week, I focus on content, which has become such a huge part of being an artist now. In recent years, it’s almost like you have to create content all the time alongside the music. We’ve started planning the summer tour and getting ready to go out and play live. I often take a song and look at it from a live perspective – if it isn’t naturally a “live-friendly” track, I think about how I can adapt it so it works on stage. How can I weave it into a set that makes sense for the era I’m in? EC: What makes a song more live-friendly, and what does meeting your audience live mean to you? Newkid: That’s a good question. Sometimes you’re in the studio, and you just think, “This is going to be amazing live.” top Brixtol Textiles coat ADNYM shirt ADNYM  trousers adidas

News

CHANEL Announces the Acquisition of Charvet

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CHANEL Announces the Acquisition of Charvet CHANEL announces that it has acquired Charvet in order to support, over the long term, the passing down of unique savoir-faire and the continued existence of an iconic French heritage house, while fully respecting its creative independence.   Bruno Pavlovsky, President of Fashion Activities at Chanel and Chanel SAS, commented: “We are delighted by this association with Charvet, which holds a special resonance for Chanel. We share the same approach to savoir-faire: with exacting standards, respect, and the conviction that such skills only truly flourish when rooted in longevity. At Chanel, we have always considered it our responsibility to support, preserve, and perpetuate these rare artisanal skills, which embody both exceptional craftsmanship and an essential part of our cultural heritage. With Charvet, this resonance is even stronger, as it forms part of a shared story : Boy Capel, who played such an important role in Gabrielle Chanel’s life, was a regular client of Charvet. This connection thus extends a symbolic link, while affirming a shared commitment to the passing down of skills, the precision of craftsmanship, and the unique ability of great houses to bring heritage into dialogue with contemporary creation.”   It was following the creative dialogue between Matthieu Blazy and Charvet for his first Spring Summer 2026 Ready-to-Wear collection that the idea of a more ambitious project naturally emerged. From this encounter grew the desire to continue the dialogue, by envisaging the integration of Charvet, in order to preserve and perpetuate this savoir-faire within a lasting framework.   For Jean-Claude Colban, Managing Director of Charvet: “This project represents the coming together of two historic Parisian companies who have chosen to join forces, united by the same standards and a shared commitment to excellence. This relationship has developed quite naturally, marked by open and collaborative exchanges, and rooted in common values: the passing down of savoir-faire, the respect for craftsmanship, and the meticulous attention to quality down to the very last detail. My sister Anne-Marie and I are delighted by this new chapter in Charvet’s history, which is perfectly in keeping with the spirit and identity that have always defined our company.” image courtesy CHANEL

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BY Malene Birger Expands Its Athleisure Universe With a Refined Take on Modern Movement

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By Malene Birger Expands Its Athleisure Universe With a Refined Take on Modern Movement Danish fashion house By Malene Birger continues to redefine everyday dressing with the launch of its latest Athleisure collection—a considered wardrobe where elevated design meets effortless functionality. Expanding on the brand’s signature aesthetic, the new offering introduces fresh silhouettes in its iconic monogram print alongside a timeless black palette, reinforcing the house’s commitment to sophisticated Scandinavian minimalism.   Rather than approaching athleisure as purely performance-driven, the collection explores the emotional relationship between clothing and the wearer. Designed to move seamlessly through the rhythms of contemporary life, each piece balances comfort with quiet luxury, offering garments that transition naturally between moments, moods, and occasions.   Drawing inspiration from the graceful silhouettes of dancewear, the collection embraces fluidity, structure, and femininity in equal measure. Signature pieces such as the Beata Bodysuit and Pollyna Sports Skirt reinterpret nostalgic athletic references through a modern lens, creating refined essentials that celebrate both movement and confidence. Versatility remains central to the collection’s philosophy. Layering is treated not simply as a practical consideration but as a means of personal expression, with lightweight separates designed to adapt effortlessly to individual styling preferences. The result is a wardrobe that feels intuitive, elegant, and inherently wearable.   Since its founding by Danish designer Malene Birger in 2003, the brand has become synonymous with timeless luxury and understated sophistication. Following a comprehensive rebrand in 2020—including the introduction of its now-signature monogram—BY MALENE BIRGER has continued to evolve while remaining rooted in craftsmanship, longevity, and purposeful design.   The latest Athleisure collection reflects this ongoing evolution, offering a contemporary interpretation of modern dressing where softness and strength coexist, and style is defined as much by feeling as by form.   The BY MALENE BIRGER Athleisure collection is now available in selected stores and online. image courtesy By Malene Birger

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Gant releases a limited-edition tennis collection ahead of the Båstad Nordea Open

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Gant releases a limited-edition tennis collection ahead of the Båstad Nordea Open GANT has unveiled its limited-edition collection celebrating its partnership with the Nordea Open in Båstad. Inspired by the timeless aesthetic of tennis and summer leisure, the capsule features T-shirts, polo shirts, hoodies, shorts, and accessories in the brand’s signature green and cream white colour palette.   Designed for effortless style both on and off the court, the collection is available online and in selected GANT stores throughout the tournament.   As the official partner of the Nordea Open, GANT will also outfit all courtside personnel—including ball callers, referees, and officials—in specially designed uniforms that reflect the brand’s signature blend of timeless American sportswear and sporting heritage. The partnership further reinforces GANT’s longstanding connection to tennis, bringing its classic aesthetic to one of Sweden’s most prestigious sporting events. image courtesy Gant

Fashion Editorial

I Know Places

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total look HUGO total look HUGO total look HUGO bracelet  A&C Oslo total look HUGO total look HUGO earring Ennui Atelier total look HUGO total look HUGO total look HUGO bracelet  A&C Oslo

Fashion Articles

Where Heritage Meets Quiet Luxury: Inside Johanna Dy’s Sinta Yohané

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Where Heritage Meets Quiet Luxury: Inside Johanna Dy’s Sinta Yohané text Jahwanna Berglund For Johanna Dy, Sinta Yohané is far more than a fashion label; it is an expression of identity, intention, and legacy. Guided by a minimalist sensibility yet deeply informed by heritage and representation, the brand exists at the intersection of thoughtful design and cultural narrative. What began as a search for something missing in the market has evolved into a quietly compelling statement of belonging, craftsmanship, and purpose. In this conversation, Dy reflects on the personal journey behind Sinta Yohané, the significance of its name, and her considered approach to building a brand designed to endure beyond seasons and trends. Jahwanna Berglund: What was the moment, or series of moments, that became the beginning of Sinta Yohané?   Johanna Dy: As a fashion content creator for the past eight years, I have always dreamed of creating a brand of my own – something that felt like a true extension of who I am and everything I stand for. I have always gravitated toward minimalist, neutral, and timeless fashion, so I knew that if I ever built something, it had to reflect that sense of ease, intention, and quiet elegance.   But beyond the aesthetic, Sinta Yohané came from something much deeper. Growing up, and especially after moving to the United States, I often longed for representation. As a Filipina-American, I did not always see women who looked like me represented in the fashion industry in the way I hoped to.   Years ago, I received a DM from a complete stranger. She told me, “Because of you, I can tell my daughter that she can be who she wants to be.” That message stayed with me. Since then, I have known that my purpose is to keep showing up, to keep pushing boundaries, and to create space for the next generation. JB: Could you tell us the story behind the name Sinta Yohané? What does it mean to you personally, and why did it feel right for this brand?   JD: “Sinta” means beloved, or love, in Tagalog. “Yohané” is taken from my name. Together, Sinta Yohané is deeply personal. It is a love letter to my younger self and to everyone who grew up feeling unseen. The name felt right because this brand was born from love – love for my heritage, love for the women who came before me, and love for the next generation, who deserve to feel represented, seen, and celebrated.   JB: You have spoken about quiet confidence as a guiding principle. When in your own life have you felt most quietly powerful?   JD: Growing up, I always had confidence within me, but I also struggled with feeling seen. Over time, I learned that I do not have to be the loudest person in the room to be powerful.   For me, quiet power comes from continuing to show up despite rejection. It comes from choosing to keep going even when the door has not opened yet. And if the opportunity does not exist, I have learned to create it myself. That, to me, is quiet confidence.     JB: Building a brand often reveals things about its founder. What did you learn about yourself through the process of creating Sinta Yohané?   JD: I learned that good things truly take time. Sinta Yohané took about three years to build – from branding and sampling to manufacturing and finally launching.   Through this process, I learned patience and how to enjoy every step, even the difficult ones. While this is not my first time creating a brand, Sinta Yohané feels different. Every decision had to be intentional. We did not want to rush. We wanted to learn, apply, adapt, and build something with meaning and longevity.   JB: The most personal collections often begin with something deeply private. What personal truth, memory, or emotion is woven into this debut collection?   JD: The debut collection is rooted in functionality, ease, and accessibility.   As a content creator, I am always reaching for my phone, camera, or daily essentials. I wanted to create pieces that were beautiful, but also truly practical for everyday life. That is why intentional pockets and ease of access became such an important part of the design. It is also why we called it the Essential Collection.   I have also always loved leather bags, so with Sinta Yohané, it was important for us to create pieces using premium full-grain leather while making them feel more accessible to more people, not just women. JB: Was there a moment during the journey when you questioned the direction of the brand? What ultimately brought you back to your original vision?   JD: One of the biggest moments of reflection came when we had to make decisions around manufacturing. Because Sinta Yohané is so deeply rooted in identity and intention, we wanted every part of the process to feel aligned – including the people and partners behind the product. There can sometimes be a narrow idea of what “luxury” manufacturing is supposed to look like, or where it is supposed to come from, but our experience showed us something much more expansive. Working with our partners in Hong Kong has been a reminder that exceptional craftsmanship, precision, and care exist in so many places, especially when you find the right team.   My husband, who is also my business partner, is half-Chinese, so there is a personal connection there as well. Ultimately, what brought us back to our original vision was staying true to our values, respecting the craft, and prioritizing quality above everything else.   JB: As a Filipino-American founder, how has creating Sinta Yohané deepened or changed your relationship with your heritage?   JD: It has made me even more proud. We are seeing so much momentum right now, with Filipino-American talent and creatives thriving across different industries, and it feels incredibly meaningful to be part of that

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