The Berenik Autumn/Winter 17 presentation definitely made its impact on fashion week with one of the most cohesive and natural RTW collections to be seen. The first thing the super cool Swiss creative, artist and designer did right was choosing Pier 59 Studio space to put on a fashion art performance. This seems to be the latest cult craze in the fashion world, whether it be showcased at Pier 59 Studios or Skylight Clarkson.

Pier 59 is the ideal location for any visionary, with nothing but plenty of open space and opportunity. Veronika Brusa, Berenik Creative Director/Designer was able to create a powerful energy by mass producing original artwork against the backdrop of the seemingly endless white walls, LORDE’s thumping “TEAM” in the background and a room full of creative movers and shakers, physically and figuratively speaking. I felt like I was in a perfect utopian bubble where everyone worked together, moved together, danced together or even stood still together in oversized wool knits and cozy yet loose fitting ensembles.

The power of community and connection seemed to be the underlying current of the night. The dancers were models, the models were actors, but they were all one in the same which was really interesting to watch the energy flow from one human being to the next.

Veronika didn’t shy away from the prints and wearable art pieces which is one of the reasons why the brand is so popular amongst street kids and art schoolers, who were enthralled by the art fashion presentation. “We all want to be connected,” Veronika said during a brief interview I had with her before the show. You could definitely see that the current state of world affairs played a major role in this collection. Art…fashion, should reflect the times and that’s exactly what The Berenik show felt like; a foreshadowed alternative from the apocalyptic state of how things are, to this dream-like state where all the problems of the human existence were solved by coming together for the greater good of the whole. The color palette for any minimalist of course was neutral with pops of wearable art like printed shirts, bomber jackets and short shorts. The fabrics were oversized and thick and free forming, which I’m sure was for the purpose of creating these utilitarian inspired designs. In short, there is a freedom of evolution and release significantly symbolized by Berenik’s talented representation and reveal of the garb we choose to wear upon our backs.

Words: Seth Heru | Images: The Bromley Group