Fashion Articles

Inside the World of Stylein: A Conversation with Founder Elin Alemdar text Jahwanna Berglund photography Niklas Nymancourtesy of Stylein For over two decades, Elin Alemdar has shaped Stylein into one of Sweden’s most beloved fashion houses, defined by its warm minimalism, architectural silhouettes, and timeless approach to dressing. Now, with the opening of a new flagship boutique on Mäster Samuelsgatan 6, Stylein enters a bold new chapter, one that invites customers into the heart of the brand, both physically and emotionally. In this intimate conversation, Elin Alemdar, the founder of Stylein, speaks about the vision behind the new space, the evolution of the brand since its early beginnings, and the creative partnership that continues to drive it forward. From mood boards to mood shifts, Scandinavian heritage to international expansion, this is a behind-the-scenes look at a brand that remains deeply rooted in its DNA while confidently stepping onto the global stage. Jahwanna Berglund: Congratulations on the new boutique! Mäster Samuelsgatan 6 is right in the heart of Stockholm’s fashion scene. What drew you to this particular location, and what does it represent for Stylein at this stage? Elin Alemdar: We have been longing for this opportunity for such a long time! Biblioteksstan in Stockholm really does represent the perfect mix of high luxury and contemporary fashion district where we as a brand fit in perfectly. JB: Stylein is known for its understated elegance and architectural silhouettes. How have you translated the essence of the brand into the design and atmosphere of the new store? EA: We have been using the same words for inspiration as we do when creating a new collection, and always staying true to our DNA such as warm Scandinavian minimalism. I got obsessed with the word cocoon and wanted it to feel as if you were entering the inner heart of our brand when visiting the store. Therefore, the architects – Thibaut Allgayer Design Office and Tomai Studio by Tomai Nordgren – interpreted that with the round shapes of the store and a warm, welcoming energy. For me, that represents us as people and as a brand, to stay inclusive in all aspects. JB: Can you tell us a bit about the creative process behind the interior? Were there any specific moods, destinations, or artistic references that inspired the space? EA: For us as a brand, it’s always important to present something that’s timeless yet still intriguing and with a modern twist to it, the same applies to the aesthetic of the boutique. I’m so pleased with the result: a space that reflects our collections through organic, sculptural shapes and carefully considered design elements. The boutique was brought to life by the creative vision of Thibaut and Tomai, a duo known for their high-profile store concepts in Seoul, Dubai, London, and now Stockholm. They truly captured that Aha! Feeling from the very first step inside the boutique. JB: When someone steps into your store, what do you want them to feel, not just about the clothes, but about the world of Stylein? EA: That they want to stay and be a part of our universe. It’s not only a store; it’s a destination where we showcase the truest expression of our brand’s essence. The designs really do sell themselves within this interior, and that’s a great satisfaction. JB: Looking back, how would you describe the evolution of Stylein, from where you started to where you are today? EA: Oh, wow! It’s been such a long journey. I started the brand when I was 20 years old and let me tell you that’s a long time ago… The brand obviously exuded a younger and more urban vibe to it, and I feel so warm in my heart thinking of that now, 24 years later. Today we are very confident in our brand and know well about our muse, who she is and love the fact that she’s an international woman who loves to invest in high quality and perfect fit of her designs. JB: In what ways do you think Swedish culture and the Nordic way of life have helped shape the Stylein aesthetic? EA: That’s always a tricky one since it’s hard to say these things about yourself and not having a perspective but I’m sure my heritage of Scandinavian life and couture affect my designs in many ways. We are brought up with a very sustainable way of thinking and with a lot of respect for our mother nature. JB: How do you and your team approach the design journey each season? What sparks that first idea? EA: I start every collection by creating a mood board and a world for our muse. It could be a city she’s traveling to or a state of mind she has for a specific occasion. Then I present this to my partner in the company, Ulrika Fohgelberg Nordén (Partner & Sales Manager), and we sort of dive into the world of our muse together. We ask ourselves what kind of drink she’s having, how she would style herself with jewelry, and what perfume she loves at the moment. Our muse doesn’t like to shop. She’s all about less is more and hates to pack. So, our job is to create the perfect looks for her to combine both day and night. JB: You and Ulrika play integral roles in Stylein’s growth, creatively and strategically. How do you complement each other when navigating big moments like a new store opening? EA: We complement ourselves in so many ways. I see our partnership as a blessing bigger than pretty much everything in my journey with Stylein. Ulrika has a rare and distinct taste and always stays curious but not flaky. That combination is crucial to build a brand. She also calms me down when things are tough and helps me with perspective on most things in life. She usually says that there’s no one as competitive and with a fighting spirit as me and I guess that’s true, so I do need someone from time to time to tell me to take a deep breather

MAGDA BUTRYM Unveils FW25 Runway Collection in Paris text Jahwanna Berglund photography Jonas Gustavssonfashion Jacob Kmovement direction Pat Boguslawski Magda Butrym debuts Magdalena, her first-ever runway collection, at Paris Fashion Week, marking a deeply personal milestone in her career. Named after her full given name, Magdalena is an intimate self-portrait, blending Slavic heritage with contemporary craftsmanship. For Fall-Winter 2025, Butrym draws inspiration from Polish weaving traditions, poetry, and raw self-expression. The collection reimagines artisanal knitwear with sculptural silhouettes, from a striking red mini dress to an ethereal crochet-veiled wedding gown. Traditional elements, like floral headscarves and folk-inspired tailoring, intertwine with modern practicality, seen in draped shearling coats and luxe tracksuits. Set against a backdrop of handcrafted woven installations, the show captures Butrym’s vision of empowered femininity—delicate yet strong, instinctive yet refined. With Magdalena, she embarks on a bold new creative chapter, embracing emotion and artistry while staying true to her signature aesthetic.

Is it Nepotism or Working Amongst Friends? Sanna Fried and Anna Mikaela Ekstrand text Xuezhu Jenny Wang photography Joanna Kellycreative direction Anna Mikaela Ekstrandfashion Sanna Fried Nepotism in the fashion industry has long been under scrutiny, from the New York Times roundup titled “Nepo Babies Crowd the Runways” to Kendall Jenner’s 2018 Love magazine interview, in which she infamously said, “I was never one of those girls who would do like 30 shows a season.” In the art world, however, it’s a grayer area. On January 24th, The Art Newspaper reported on “concerns over nepotism row” at the National Portrait Gallery, noting that a photographer exhibiting works at the London gallery had previously made substantial donations to the institution. Responses to the headline vary, yet the majority of Instagram users who commented on this post expressed familiarity with the prevalence of said phenomenon, many arguing that the whole art industry is practically built on friend networks. For a field known for a history of salons, high-society patrons, and tight-knit movements, there is a fine line between connection and favoritism. Writer and curator Anna Mikaela Ekstrand says that more often than not, the everyday artist or curator adopts some form of “nepotism” not necessarily out of monetary motivations but rather as a result of intellectual exchange or skill-sharing. Ekstrand recalls, “Collaboration has always been central to my work. When I started calling myself a curator, there was a huge boom in curatorial programs worldwide, but not enough work to go around.” This collaborative thinking stemmed from her early experience at the BMW Guggenheim Lab—an urban planning think tank bringing in more than 100 minds—as well as her familiarity with performance artist Ayana Evans’s practice, who would invite colleagues to co-perform at institutional commissions so that everyone can get paid and build their resume. Later, Ekstrand started the online publication Cultbytes to involve and credit as many people as possible. In a similar vein, she has also co-authored Curating Beyond the Mainstream (Sternberg Press) where she examined the collaborative architectural research group BiG (Bo i Gemenskap, or “Live in Community”), and built communities through The Immigrant Artist Biennial. Artist Sanna Fried shares a similar ethos: “When you collaborate with someone, it’s about merging different fields and relying on each other’s expertise. You cannot trust someone unless you know they are good at what they do.” A friend and collaborator of Ekstrand’s, Fried spent most of her working years in fashion before transitioning to pursue visual arts professionally four years ago. Now, her canvas-based works explore self-representation, narcissism, and the public persona through painterly reenactments of thirst traps, mirror selfies, and exposed bodies. Still, she continues to bridge the two distinct worlds of fashion and art through styling projects, magazine editorials, and more broadly, exploring how expression is manifested through the auto-image—tangible and digital alike. The transition, however, was not without a learning curve. Xuezhu Jenny Wang: Is this overlap between fashion and art new? Both of you have been working on projects that bridge the two fields—what are some differences you have so far observed? Anna Mikaela Ekstrand: It’s quite new to me. We live in a world where hierarchies and boundaries are constantly blurred. But at the end of the day, these are two different industries—fashion caters to a broader market. So far, I’ve done about five fashion editorials to bring artists a more “mainstream” clout. In an exhibition, my job of a curator is to give artwork primacy and create a dialogue among the artworks. In an editorial setting, I involve stylists, hair and makeup artists, photographers, and creative directors—asking them, “How do you interpret this artist? How does their work inspire you?” Sanna Fried: It feels liberating to move towards the art scene from the fashion world. My art is highly inspired by my years in fashion, and I like to return to my roots. But painting is something that gives me the ultimate satisfaction. While my work in both fields is about the same kind of desire to express things, working in fashion was a lot about the commercial and making money. Translating these images into paintings makes me feel like I can focus on the messages better. XJW: What does your friendship mean for your respective careers? AME: We have a constant conversation on WhatsApp, talking about her career and my new editorial projects. Recently, Sanna has been so incredible in helping me figure out the different ways of communicating in fashion. For instance, the mood board is so important to fashion editorials, and Sanna explained the concept to me. SF: And likewise, at first, I didn’t know what an artist statement was. Anna Mikaela had to explain it to me. XJW: Do you communicate with each other differently as collaborators versus as friends? Are there disagreements from time to time? SF: I actually think we communicate in a softer way when working together. Privately, we can be pretty direct to each other. Of course, in creative projects, there are more people than just the two of us involved. A lot of the work is about coordinating who’s whose contact; you reach out to this person, and I reach out to that person. AME: We both trust and respect each other. Even when there are things I don’t agree with, I trust her taste—Sanna has an incredible eye—understand that her ideas are good, choose my battles, and move on. Team work makes the dream work; hence our photoshoot, not only playing together but also being prepared to clean each other’s messes, quite literally. SF: And between the two of us, we have very different skillsets. Anna Mikaela is like a human ChatGPT. She writes better than AI. I’m never going to interfere with what she writes, and likewise, she won’t interfere with what I paint. XJW: Speaking of your paintings, Sanna, could you share more about your exhibition at Engelbrekt Cathedral in Stockholm? SF: The show in Sweden is actually a continuation of the paintings I did two years

Balenciaga Winter 25: Reinventing Standards with Performance and Couture Balenciaga’s Winter 25 collection redefines standards, merging motorsports, sportswear, and tailoring into an avant-garde vision. With collaborations spanning Alpinestars and PUMA, the House pushes the limits of performance wear and high fashion. Set against a maze-like backdrop designed to blur expectations, the collection explores archetypal dress codes, deconstructing conventions. Businesswear takes unexpected twists, with classic two-piece suits appearing in hand-wrinkled navy, moth-eaten pinstripe, and maxi-skirt pairings. Daywear silhouettes feature exaggerated coats, sculptural trenches, and cashmere outerwear adorned with broken buttons and integrated scarves. Hooded nylon puffers and Victorian-inspired leather jackets embrace anatomical precision, balancing couture roots with urban ease. Balenciaga’s material innovation is evident in resin-treated, permanently wrinkled denim and crushed Dyneema® bags. Accessories take a conceptual turn with faceless Geneva watch bracelets, unset Frame rings, and modular Venice Beach Mask eyewear. Balenciaga and Alpinestars expand their motorsports collaboration, introducing a co-branded SuperTech R10 Helmet in black high-density carbon fiber with modular features. Signature gloves, including the SMX-2 Air Carbon V2 and Morph Gloves, are reworked with piercings, spikes, and distress treatments, fusing protection with avant-garde aesthetics. images courtesy of Balenciaga The Balenciaga | PUMA debut merges PUMA’s sportswear heritage with Balenciaga’s disruptive design. The reimagined Speedcat Sneaker softens into a pliable, sock-like structure with worn-out suede and a cut-off Formstrip. Apparel fuses nostalgia with modernity, featuring extra-dry molleton sweatsuits with Balenciaga’s lion crest, archival-inspired tracksuits, and a shearling “tracksuit” jacket. Accessories include a crushed Dyneema® shopper bag, caps, and liner gloves. Balenciaga’s Winter 25 collection transforms standard wardrobe staples, merging couture with outerwear and technical expertise with fashion-forward design. These collaborations reinforce the dialogue between performance and luxury, proving fashion is about innovation, adaptability, and breaking the mold. Demna challenges not just what we wear but how fashion shapes culture and technology, making this collection a declaration of power, precision, and reinvention.

Inside the SS25 Collection: The People, Passion, and Process Behind Dr. Martens’ Next Chapter text Sandra Myhrberg Dr. Martens has always been more than just footwear. It’s a symbol of individuality, rebellion, and self-expression. The SS25 collection marks an exciting evolution, driven by the talented individuals shaping the brand’s designs and storytelling. At the core of SS25 is The Buzz, a bold ‘90s-inspired silhouette reimagined for today’s wearers, alongside Genix Nappa, a sustainable material crafted from reclaimed leather offcuts. This season is all about fusing past and future while pushing boundaries in both design and sustainability. The Buzz shoe and campaign mark an exciting evolution for the brand, driven by the talented individuals behind Dr. Martens’ designs and storytelling. This season shines a light on the incredible team behind the scenes at Dr. Martens—the designers, product experts, and marketeers whose creativity brings each collection and campaign to life. Balancing heritage with innovation is at the heart of the brand’s approach. The design teams constantly reference Dr. Martens’ 64-year archive to maintain the integrity of its brand DNA – whether it’s through iconic silhouettes, distinctive design details, or standout campaigns over the years. At the same time, this new generation of talent brings fresh ideas, materials and design approaches that push the brand forward. It’s this fusion of past and future that keeps Dr. Martens evolving while remaining unmistakably Doc’s. In this exclusive interview, Becki Evans, Jack Connors, and Bridie Husband share how Dr. Martens stays true to its rebellious roots while continuing to evolve. What has been the biggest challenge in launching the SS25 collections, and how did the team overcome it?Becki Evans (Global Brand Manager): Dr. Martens has a rich heritage, making it both exciting and challenging to decide which elements of our DNA and legacy to retain whilst ensuring a launch resonates with a new generation of wearers. At our core, we defy norms and celebrate individuality. This philosophy shapes our decision-making process. The Buzz collection embodies that spirit. Infused with confidence and the warmth of friendship, the campaign is bold, bright, and unapologetically Dr. Martens. Our regional teams have brought it to life through local partnerships and activations, helping new audiences to feel the buzz. Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in fashion. How does the SS25 collection, particularly the Genix Nappa line, reflect Dr. Martens commitment to sustainability?Jack Connors (Sustainability Project Manager): Dr. Martens long-term sustainability ambition is to become a net-zero business by 2040, and a key step towards this goal is integrating more *sustainable materials across all our product ranges. The Genix Nappa line embodies this commitment by reclaiming leather offcuts that would otherwise go to landfill and re-engineering them into a soft, lightweight, and durable material. Since its launch in Spring 2024, the range has been a huge success, and we’re excited to push its potential even further with new print and embroidery designs available next month. Beyond Genix Nappa, we’re continuously evolving our material mix, increasing the number of sustainable options across all product categories to drive long-term change. *At DM’s, a sustainable material is one that is durable, made from recycled, renewable, or regenerative sources, and produced responsibly. How does Dr. Martens ensure its products remain relevant to both loyal customers and new generations of wearers?Bridie Husband (Footwear Designer): At Dr. Martens we rely on our rich archive to influence what’s next for us, with nearly 65 years of heritage, we have a deep pool of inspiration to explore. Our design ethos is to stay true to our DNA whilst appealing to a new generation of wearers by experimenting with new materials, colours and collaboration partners. The Buzz shoe draws inspiration from the ‘90s archive. What aspects of that era influenced its design the most? Everything about the Buzz shoe is inspired by the ‘90s – from the chunky, rounded proportions to the leopard prints and pink hues. The Buzz has a sporty, vintage aesthetic that our wearers haven’t seen from us in recent seasons. There’s a sense of physical elevation and confidence that comes with a big platform sole: it takes up space and demands attention. Bridie, you led the design for Buzz and championed the return of an archive sole. What drew you to this specific element, and how did you modernize it?Bridie: Bringing a classic back in a new way feels extra special. Our team always references the archive to make sure new styles align with our heritage. This type of style had been sought after by true brand fans for years – you can see the love for it by the traction it gets on resale sites and the customer interactions on our own platforms. When I pitched the idea to bring iback in my interview at DM’s, the idea snowballed, and the newly imagined Buzz is now the key mainline style for this season and beyond. The new Buzz silhouette has a classic DM’s identity but brings something bold and playful to a potential new wearer.The Buzz platform sits between a sneaker and a shoe. What kind of consumer do you envision embracing this new hybrid style?Bridie: The Buzz is the perfect choice for anyone who typically reaches for sneakers but wants to elevate their look whilst keeping things effortless. It’s designed for those who love to stand out yet appreciate timeless, investment-worthy pieces. With its unique shape, elevated height and versatile neutral tones of black, brown, and leopard, the Buzz seamlessly fits into any wardrobe, making it easy to dress up or down. What do you hope consumers will take away from the SS25 collections?Bridie: With our SS25 collections, we hope to inspire a sense of playfulness and optimism. We’ve dialled up the joy and introduced fresh silhouettes and bold design details that bring new energy to our offering. We can’t wait for our wearers to make them their own. images courtesy of Dr. Martens

Entangled Rebirth: Elin Olsson on Embracing Imperfection and Redefining Fashion text Matilde Aarskog Wold Elin Olsson, a young designer from Beckmans College of Design, introduces her latest collection, Trasslig Återfödelse (Entangled Rebirth), where fragility meets resilience. Her designs, a blend of delicate threads and voluminous silhouettes, challenge conventional fashion norms by embracing imperfections as a source of strength. In this interview, we dive into her creative process, inspirations, and the artistry behind the collection we’ve styled and captured for this feature. Olsson’s work invites us to see fashion as both a craft and a reflection of life’s beautiful complexities. Matilde Aarskog Wold: “When and how did your interest in fashion and design first emerge?” EO: I actually called my mother and asked. She said that as early as the age of two, I showed an interest in clothes and accessories by always being drawn to “bling bling” and trying on high heels that were way too big for me. My interest in sewing probably started around the age of 14 if I remember correctly. I bought second-hand clothes, cut them up, and then re-sewed them using my grandmother’s old Singer machine from the 1950s-60s. It wasn’t until high school that I truly realized fashion and design were what I wanted to pursue. I even asked my incredibly fashion-uninterested mother, “What is the profession called when you work in the fashion world?” After that, we traveled to Stockholm to attend open houses at various design schools, and that’s when I decided that one day, I would study at Beckmans. But it took me ten years before I actually started studying there. Like many others at the time, I wanted to explore the world first, and I also spent three years in preparatory studies before starting. MAW: Your latest collection, “Trasslig Återfödelse,” has such an evocative title. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the collection and walk us through your process of developing it? EO: It actually started with thoughts about my mother—how she always saves the smallest things that others might throw away. She’s the type who keeps used wrapping paper and a pretty ribbon, for example. My mother sees value in small things, and as I’ve grown older, I’ve also come to appreciate that. I think I’ve inherited a certain tendency to collect—or as I prefer to call it, save! The phrase “it might come in handy” is something I’ve heard thousands of times growing up, and I’ve also adopted that mindset, in a well-organized chaos. In short, the inspiration for this collection came from my parents’ lifestyle. The process started with material experimentation, which was the focus of the entire course. I knew early on that I wanted to work with upcycling to breathe new life into everything I had collected over the years. I was particularly interested in denim and knitwear. I conducted numerous denim experiments and ultimately found the concept of “layer upon layer upon layer” intriguing. Regarding the knitwear pieces, I wanted to symbolize how human life has its ups and downs, just like the materials I’ve saved over the years. This time, those materials had their moment to shine. I wanted the finish to look “worn-in,” which is why the garments have subtly patinated color variations, as well as frayed denim pants and the upcycled lace top. MAW: The visuals from this collection feel deeply personal. How much of your own experiences and emotions influence your work? EO: “Trasslig Återfödelse” is deeply personal. In the material course, there was no strict framework for the concept, which allowed me to make it very personal. clothes Elin Olsson/Beckmans College of Designshoes Lundhags Later, there are courses with more structured briefs, or courses like “Collab,” where we collaborate with a company and need to step back from our own egos. It’s a very valuable and fun experience! But for my graduation project, I will make it personal again, to showcase who I am as a designer. MAW: You blend delicate, intricate elements with bold, voluminous shapes in your work. How do you approach balancing these contrasts, and what do they represent to you? clothes Elin Olsson/Beckmans College of Designshoes Kero EO: I think, like many others, I’ve trained my eye to see the bigger picture. I believe this happens unconsciously if you’re truly interested in design. The voluminous silhouettes come from my fascination with form. I find it intriguing when textiles extend beyond the body and take on a life of their own. My interest in textures comes from my desire to engage another sense in clothing—there’s so much that can be expressed through texture. MAW: Sustainability is such a big conversation in fashion right now. How does “Trasslig Återfödelse” tie into ideas of circular design or eco-consciousness? EO: The entire collection is about circular design and making use of what already exists. My chaotic but fairly well-organized collecting has resulted in this collection. Everything in the collection, except for the knitwear, consists of recycled materials. MAW: The fashion industry is rapidly evolving with new technologies and values. How do you see young designers like yourself reshaping the future of fashion? EO: I see it as an incredible opportunity but also a responsibility. I believe in us new designers, in our commitment to sustainability—both environmental and social. The industry has already been breaking traditional norms for a while, creating more inclusive expressions, and above all, advocating for sustainability. I strongly believe that we, as new designers, must continue working towards this. 3D design, AI, and digital platforms allow us to reduce waste and reach a global audience, even as small-scale designers. At the same time, I think it’s important not to focus on innovation for the sake of innovation but to uphold the values we want to see in the industry: respect for people, animals, and the environment. I believe the future requires a deeper impact than just following trends. I truly hope and believe that new designers are in a unique position to drive this change forward by

Charles & Keith: The Must Have Brand on Every Gen Z Student’s Radar text Maya Avram photography Darrel Hunterimages courtesy of Charles & Keith London Fashion Week is right around the corner, with events and presentations kicking off the Autumn/Winter season at the capital later this week. And while the Swinging City may not have the big-money splendour of New York or the century-old aesthetic of Paris and Milan, London’s vibrant energy is unmatched compared to the rest of the big four. Its brimming experimental nature is a creative haven for emerging talent like Nensi Dojaka, Simone Rocha, JW Anderson and Erdem, all of whom have grown to become global phenomena in recent years. The same fervour is extended to storied English houses too, like Burberry and Vivienne Westwood, rendering London’s fashion industry a pioneer of subversion and boundary-breaking design. This is why Central Saint Martins — the famed London fashion school whose impressive list of alumni includes the late Alexander McQueen, Phoebe Philo and Christopher Kane, among others — has a permanent slot on the Fashion Week schedule, as it’s generally agreed that its graduates are primed for greatness. This is why leather expert Charles & Keith has teamed up with a select group of CSM styling students for its latest campaign. Shot by celebrated photographer Darrel Hunter, the shoot benefits from his affluent lens as well as the students’ fresh attitudes, resulting in unrestrained creative expression that is so quintessentially Charles & Keith. Proving, once again, that no one does it like Londoners. photography Darrel Hunterimages courtesy of Charles & Keith

An Interview with Katja Inga text Agnes Strand Five years ago, designer and stylist Katja Hägelmark Johansson started her business, focusing on custom-made clothing. Since then, she has dressed many celebrities, brides and bridesmaids . In the fall of 2024, she pursued one of her other dreams and launched her ready-to-wear brand, KATJA INGA – clothing that is made in Stockholm, from first sketch to last seam. Agnes Strand: Who are you?Katja Inga: I’m Katja Hägelmark Johansson, designer and also founder of the Swedish brand KATJA INGA. I make a lot of custom-made pieces, for artists for example, but also wedding dresses and I do some styling under the name Katja Johansson Design. I also run my own brand since fall 2024, KATJA INGA. It’s a ready-to-wear brand where everything is sewn and designed in Stockholm. AS: Describe your designKI: I usually describe my design at KATJA INGA as Scandinavian and timeless, but with a twist. I work a lot with draping, for example, and I like to create pieces that can be worn in several different ways, so that they can have a long life in your wardrobe. I love simplicity, less is more, especially when it comes to color, but it shouldn’t be too basic. I work 90% of the time in black and white/cream white. AS: How did you get to where you are today?KI: I sewed a lot when I was a teenager. But then a lot of other things happened in life, I lived abroad for a while, then I started studying journalism in Kalmar, and that’s when I finally picked up my interest again and started sewing, day and night really. Thats almost 10 years ago now. I’ve taken a few classes at Tillskärarakademin in Gothenburg, in pattern making, materials science, etc., but at the core, I am self-taught. I started my own company in 2020 and it gave me a reel boost in my carrier when I was working with Idol in 2021. I saw that Sebastian Hammarberg (Stylebyseb) was going to style the Idols and was ooking for an assistant who could sew, so I applied—and that’s how it started. I got the job, and since then, I’ve been working with this. A lot of custommade work, which I love; it’s so fun and creative. But having my own KATJA INGA has been something I’ve been longing for for such a long time. AS: Biggest challenges of running your own business?KI: Getting the word out! Right now, all of my designs and garments are made in Stockholm, which I’m incredibly proud of, and I want people to know that, but it’s so easy to get lost in the noise. It would be so wonderful if people actually realized that you can buy clothes that are made in Stockholm. AS: Where do you see yourself in the future?KI: My dream is to be able to work 100% with KATJA INGA. Right now, I do everything myself, design, sketches, social media, sewing, the business part etc. My goal is for KATJA INGA to grow, and to have employees, so that I can do what I love the most, the design part. I wish to have a showroom or a small store, with large windows facing the street. That’s what I’m hoping for. photography Agnes Strandfashion & all clothing Katja Ingamodels Sanna Sellbrand & Lili Gustafsson & Jamie Sallmén

Utopia: A Celebration of Azzedine Alaia – Interview with Dragana Kusoffsky Maksimovic text NATALIA MUNTEAN From October 10, 2024, to February 16, 2025, Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum in Stockholm is hosting Master of Couture – Azzedine Alaïa, an exhibition showcasing the iconic creations of one of fashion’s most legendary figures. Known for his uncompromising approach and ability to blend fashion with sculpture, Azzedine Alaïa carved out a unique space in the world of haute couture, creating designs that transcend trends and timelines. From his early days as a young Tunisian sculptor to his rise as a celebrated couturier in Paris, Alaïa’s journey was marked by an extraordinary dedication to his craft, producing collections that continue to inspire designers and fashion lovers alike. This exhibition serves as both a tribute to Alaïa’s enduring legacy and an exploration of the art of couture, where fabric meets form in perfect harmony. We had the pleasure of speaking with Dragana Kusoffsky Maksimović, CEO of Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum, about the significance of this exhibition and how it reflects the visionary talent of a designer who revolutionised the fashion industry with his bold, sculptural silhouettes and timeless designs. photography Patrick Demarchelier Trunk Archive / Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum Natalia Muntean: How did the idea to bring Azzedine Alaïa’s work to the Nordics for the first time come about, and what inspired this collaboration with the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation? Dragana Kusoffsky Maksimović: The idea to exhibit Azzedine Alaïa’s work to the Nordics for the first time originated from a desire to showcase his iconic influence and craftsmanship to new audiences. I have long admired Azzedine Alaïa’s work and design, and, along with others, consider him one of the most influential fashion designers of all time. The craftsmanship, the strong silhouettes, and the way women wearing his clothes are empowered, not objectified, has always inspired me. The collaboration with the Foundation Azzedine Alaïa was inspired by a shared vision to highlight the artistry and timeless nature of his couture creations, as well as to celebrate his lasting legacy in the fashion world. I am so excited to open the doors and welcome our visitors to this truly extraordinary exhibition. NM: Can you tell us about the process of selecting the haute couture garments for the exhibition? What criteria were used to handpick these pieces? DKM: Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum has worked closely with the curator and fashion historian Olivier Saillard from the Foundation Azzedine Alaïa, which preserves Alaïas archives and legacy. We are showcasing forty iconic pieces spanning his four-decade career as a designer, from one of his earliest designs in the 80s to pieces from his very last runway show in 2017, just a few months before he suddenly passed away. In the exhibition “Master of Couture – Azzedine Alaïa,” visitors will step into the world of haute couture and get to know the fashion genius Azzedine Alaïa through his tailoring artistry. In subtly crafted creations, Alaïa highlights the duality of clothing as both couture and sculpture. In bringing this exhibition to the Nordics, we aimed to share Alaïa’s body of work and his iconic sculptural design. NM: Azzedine Alaïa was known for his unique combination of fashion and sculpture. How does the exhibition design at Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum enhance the sculptural quality of his creations? DKM: The exhibition design will be intentionally minimalist, allowing the couture pieces to take centre stage. Each elegant couture form is showcased on specially crafted mannequins by Alaïa himself. The shape and measurements of the mannequins were inspired by the figures of his favourite models, including Naomi Campbell, who was a very close friend and muse. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the subtle and distinctive details up close in his iconic designs and experience the sculptural tailoring that made Alaïa a pioneer in the fashion world.  NM: What challenges did the museum face in curating this exhibition, especially considering the delicate nature of haute couture garments? DKM: The whole process and collaboration with the team at Foundation Azzedine Alaïa and us has been inspirational and very creative. They have been very supportive of our ideas. Also, the trust and respect we have in our curator Olivier Saillard’s experience and knowledge have been crucial for this exhibition and selection of garments. The dresses have been prepared by highly skilled conservators at the Foundation Azzedine Alaïa and are carefully dressed on specially made mannequins. photography John Scarisbrick / Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum NM: Alaïa’s designs have been worn by iconic figures like Naomi Campbell, Grace Jones, and Michelle Obama. How does this exhibition reflect the influence his creations had on both the fashion industry and pop culture? DKM: This exhibition reflects that influence by showcasing the transformative power of his couture, which blends impeccable craftsmanship with bold, sculptural silhouettes. Alaïa’s ability to empower women through his designs has played a significant role in shaping modern fashion. As a curiosity, he also designed for the legendary Greta Garbo. Azzedine Alaïa’s work transcended the traditional boundaries of fashion, blending art, sculpture, and couture to create designs that celebrated beauty and individuality. His unique creations and sculptural silhouettes celebrating the female body made him world-famous. Alaïa’s creations not only set new standards in haute couture, but also became synonymous with cultural moments, worn by women who shaped the worlds of culture, entertainment, politics, and fashion. His legacy, seen through this exhibit, illustrates how his work continues to inspire designers, celebrities, and fashion lovers worldwide photography John Scarisbrick / Sven-Harrys Konstmuseum   NM: Alaïa famously had no formal fashion education, yet he became one of the most celebrated couturiers. How does this exhibition celebrate his unconventional path to success? DKM: Azzedine Alaïa was an autodidact, mastering the art of design without formal fashion education. His unique approach to fashion design was deeply influenced by his background in sculpture. Born in Tunisia in 1934, he studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Tunis, where he honed his sculptural skills. This artistic background profoundly shaped his approach as a couturier. Unlike many designers who begin with sketches, Alaïa worked directly

Clogs, Craft, and Timeless Cool – Emy Blixt on the Rise of Swedish Hasbeens text Ulrika Lindqvist Nineteen years ago, Emy Blixt swapped her career as a primary school teacher for the world of fashion, founding Swedish Hasbeens—now a globally recognized brand known for its handcrafted clogs and commitment to sustainability. In this exclusive interview, Blixt shares the story behind her unexpected journey, the inspiration behind the SS25 collection, and the joy of seeing icons like Sarah Jessica Parker embrace her designs. Ulrika Lindqvist:  Can you share how long you’ve been working in fashion and what initially inspired you to pursue a career in this field, what motivated you to found SWedish Hasbeens 19 years ago ? Emy Blixt: Although I worked as a primary school teacher before establishing Swedish Hasbeens, I’ve always had a big passion for vintage, handicraft and natural materials. This fascination made me take the opportunity to buy the leftover stock of vintage 70’s clogs back in 2006. I could see that the clogs were right on time with a growing awareness and demand for organic and sustainable products. You know when you are searching for something, and you don’t reallyknow what then suddenly you just find it, and then you know that this is it. I was 35 years old and I just stopped being a teacher and started making clogs, with no experience in the area, of business, design, or production. UL:  Over the years, have there been any standout projects or events that you find especially memorable? EB: It turned out that the clog had a big fashion potential. We were doubling our production five years in a row. Quite soon, we were contacted by H&M asking us to collaborate and feature our products in their flagship stores worldwide. This collaboration was a great honor given H&M:s history of successful design partnerships. It was an opportunity to spread our clogs all around the world. UL: We’d love to hear more about your SS25 collection—what inspired it, and what sets it apart? EB: Our SS25 collection draws inspiration from the braveness of the 60s, combined with playful elements, which makes it a perfect fashion now/vintage balance. The iconic bow and lasting loafers in combination with our luxurious Italian vachetta leather gives the collection a timeless expression. UL:  Your creations have been frequently worn by celebrities—was there a particular moment or individual that made you especially excited? EB:In 2009, as newcomers, a customer sent us a picture of Sarah Jessica Parker wearing the shoes. This was of course a great acknowledgement, saying that our shoes were something extra special. It has been great to see that she does not only wear our shoes in her movies, but also privately. UL: Beyond Swedish Hasbeens, what’s the most treasured garment in your wardrobe and why? EB: I believe that you are something and that is your personality, meaning different characteristics, for example crossover, open, relaxed or so on. Then you like something and that is your interests, for example vintage stuff, handicraft, art or whatever. Combing those two things, you find a sweetspot. So, my most treasured garment is a combination of who I am and what I like. For sure, I’m always investing in a pair of denim pants. They can be cheap or expensive, they just need to be spectacular meaning they need to meet me in my personality and interests. Once I find my sweetspot denim jeans, I tend to wear them for many years. Since I like vintage, I usually add a cool vintage belt or something. Mixing equal parts new fashion, old vintage fashion, color and handicraft. It’s all about the perfect mix and balance. UL:  Can you walk us through a typical workday in your life? EB: I try to work a little as possible but with the best possible impact on the result. I also try tofocus on the things I love to do, mostly creative stuff like designing and develop innovationswith the shoe factory. Additionally, I look at a lot of old statistics and analyze to decide forfuture strategies regarding marketing and sales. We are a very small and tight organization,so we need to work close and crossover together. It stretches from ideas of shoes, running aninternational webshop, marketing ideas, creating content, communication textually, meeting our customers in different ways and sending shoes all over the world. UL:  Looking to the future, what’s next for you? Are there any specific projects, goals, or aspirations you’re particularly excited about? EB: As soon as I’m finished with one collection, which I kind of never is, since I always want toadd new pieces and styles, I get ideas about the next one. I’m always longing for the nextprototypes and next styles. I push the boundaries of what’s possible to make on a clog, whilebeing mindful to the natural materials and the Hasbeen’s DNA. It is a fun challenge. For ourlatest photoshoot, I bought an old vintage Italian leather belt with brassy metallic studs andrivets. Now I’m fixated with implementing this on the next collection, so stay tuned.