For the first time, Wabi Sabi participated in Copenhagen Fashion Week. This season we were invited to the Styling Lounge hosted by Social Works at Villa Copenhagen, where designers and stylists collaborated throughout the entire fashion week.
Ann Merete and I went to Copenhagen to follow the work closely. It was important for us to be present and ensure that the presentation of the jewelry was in line with our expression and craftsmanship. In the lounge, the jewelry was selected in dialogue with stylists and talents, and put together as part of the whole in each outfit.
The jewellery in use
Photos from the talents' Instagram.
The Styling Lounge served as a work space throughout the days in Copenhagen. Talents active in the Nordic fashion market came in between shows and events. Clothes were tried on, silhouettes were assessed and hair and makeup completed the look. The jewelry was chosen as the small details that bring the expression together and give the outfit a clear finish.
It was in these moments that I really got to see how our collections were interpreted.
Petra Henriette (@petrahenriette) built her styling around the Mingle collection and added elements from Fråst and selected gemstones. The combinations were thoughtful, yet free. The jewellery moved between structure and softer details.
Sus Wilkins (@suswilkins) chose a more minimalist look with rings and Mingle hoop earrings. The whole look was simple and precise.
Shay (@shayzanco_) gathered the expression around the Råkka Firkant and combined the small and large variants. The shape was repeated and created balance. A clear and stylish expression, as we often put them together ourselves.
Alice (@alicestenlof) took a different direction and let the rings fill her hands. She combined several shapes across the collections and created new encounters between them. The result was a contrast between playfulness and a stylish expression.
I found it incredibly fun to see how the different talents implemented our jewellery into their own aesthetics. Each styling showed new aspects of our design and how the jewellery can be worn in different ways.
Experiences we take forward
For me personally, this week was a reminder of why we do what we do. Seeing the jewellery from the workroom in Tromsø come to life in new contexts, on people with different expressions and backgrounds, gave me a strong sense of direction.
It made me confident that the forms we develop have a flexibility and strength that can withstand interpretation. At the same time, it became clear that our close connection towards craftsmanship is what gives the jewellery its identity, also in a larger fashion context.
We returned home with new energy and a clearer understanding of how Wabi Sabi can grow further. Not by changing its core, but by allowing it to meet new arenas. Beauty In Imperfection still stands firm, even outside the workshop in Tromsø.
Text by Ingrid Skaue Øines, Brand Director at Wabi Sabi
