RIANNA + NINA

ABOUT THE SHOW

Known for their rather unconventional runway shows, the defile by RIANNA + NINA resembled more of a performance, with dancers flown in from Athens showcasing the couture-esque, handcrafted unique pieces of the Berlin Contemporary winners.

This season, Rianna Kounou and Nina Knaudt presented their one-of-a-kind looks at the Greek Embassy—a perfectly fitting location, as the collection is once again closely connected to Kounou's homeland, its culture, and the traditions of Greece.

This season ballet dancers from Athens wore your looks. Why?

We wanted to demonstrate the versatility of the clothes, therefore Athenian ballet dancers, were part of the presentation and brought century-old dances, such as Balos, Zonaradikos, and Roditikos to life.

The collection is called “Folklore” and is a celebration of traditions. What is the inspiration behind it?

It comes from Rianna's rich Greek heritage, which has had a big impact on her creative direction. The theme Folklore delves into mythology and nature as it imprints itself into daily life through classic objects such as tablecloths, vases, plates, and many more. The performance concept will reflect its meaning, highlighting traditional Greek garments, inspired by Greek folk wear.

Carefully sourced materials are at the heart of every look you´re creating…

Each look is again crafted from vintage fabrics which we found on our global treasure hunts. We take great care in handcrafting these pieces in our atelier, minimizing waste wherever possible. This collection features a vast array of materials, with an underlying theme of various vintage tablecloths. Although the silhouettes are classic and timeless, the details shine through, whether it is a vintage Kendima, crochet from Greece, or a special embroidery from Bulgaria adding a modern twist to the theme of Folklore.

The collection consists of 20 unique looks. Which are your personal favorites?

We believe all of our pieces will highlight the show! But if we have to name a few: There is a dress composed of Greek tablecloths combined with a traditional embroidery piece from the Balkan region. Another highlight is a traditional Greek Manteau made of different kitchen towels sewn together. Lastly, we have a skirt and blouse outfit that exudes Greek tradition. The blouse is made of five different dyed tablecloths, creating an airy, colorful finish. The skirt is composed of two panels: the back panel is a piece of a printed Greek tablecloth with little flowers printed on it, and the front consists of a panel embroidered with straw, continuing the theme of flowers throughout the outfit.

ABOUT THE LABEL

RIANNA + NINA is a colorful universe, created by two women with a shared love for vintage textiles treasure-hunted around the globe, a passion for craftsmanship, a deep belief in bringing true sustainable luxury to an extravagant clientele, and a desire to excite people with the extraordinary.

Starting as a small boutique in Berlin in 2014, RIANNA + NINA has grown rapidly, attracting international attention and acclaim for their never-before-seen, vibrant styles. Today, RIANNA + NINA is stocked by over 30 A-list boutiques and leading hotels, and attracts clients from all over the globe with their new definition of luxury.

In January 2022 RIANNA + NINA opened their first international flagship store in Paris at the Palais Royal. Nestled between cafés and galleries in the heart of Parisian creativity, this prized location is a perfect home for RIANNA + NINA, blending the colorful world with Paris’ local style and global influence to create a truly incredible destination.

After hosting a Summer Pop-up at the luxurious Marbella Club Hotel in 2023, RIANNA + NINA have now opened a permanent space at the Marbella Club Hotel, located next to Chanel, Bottega Veneta, Loewe, and Louis Vuitton. Spanning over 100 square meters, the space features exclusive One-of-a-kind pieces, vibrant Ready-to-wear collections, our beloved bags, an assortment of home goods, and much more.

RIANNA + NINA’s dedicated team is based in the heart of Berlin.

Love Vintage. Love Color. Love RIANNA + NINA.

All images, brand descriptions and further information are available at the official Berlin Fashion Week MEDIA HUB.