The soft string tunes from Wong Kar Wai’s “In the Mood for Love” soundtrack and the blurred poppy print dress were an accurate prelude to Malaikaraiss show.
Known for typically girly-cool chic, Berlin-based Malaika Raiss took a more feminine stance and presented a year-round wardrobe that sparked romantic countryside melancholy. The red-and-black poppy prints on pleated dresses and light blue and mustard yellow slip-off shoulder frocks were styled with bright red and pink pants against the dreary weather. Classic shirts and pullovers in shades of white were layered with organza showpieces studded with round crystals, plus neon pink pants, burgundy leather garments and fluffy rosé and bright yellow hand muffs, mixing retro and contemporary elements.
The designer said her collection is also an emotional reaction to the current political turmoil: “I needed color because it’s all so bad outside.” Accordingly, the splash of bright colors were set against the gray concrete shell of the soon-to-be-rebuilt Berlin City Palace, a symbol of the yearning for better times and melancholy for the past.