Are you ready to enter Berlin’s favourite boutique, STUDIO 183? This standalone retail space in the German city features works from an ever-expanding roster of designers and artists from all around the world.
These local and international talent is curated by the store’s owner and creative force, Katrina Ryback. She finds motivation in the beauty of the outdoors, art, the simplicity of modern life, and the culture of today. Those with an appreciation for style and aesthetics have a new place to congregate.
Designers at the label often produce one-of-a-kind works that are both gender-neutral and universally sized, embracing and encouraging inclusivity every step of the way. Whether it’s via hand-painted accessories or working on collaborative designs, many designers work together to merge the world of fashion with art. This is why art weeks, fashion weeks as well as gallery weekends are popular times for them to host exhibits. Clearly, the Berlin art and style scene has a strong preference for transdisciplinary work.
Art Meet Fashion
STUDIO 183 has apparel that are full of eye-catching contrasts, playful mix of colours and a unique approach to design. Designers (international and local) work to create unique one-off pieces that are unisex and one-size fits all.
Mixing startlingly bright eccentric jackets with abstract patterned shirts or combining matching tiny skirts are just two examples.
This label displays forward-thinking, on-trend apparel for women and men with the intention of shaking up the fashion business. They operate as a collaborative space, bringing together style, art, technology and quality. One of Berlin’s most prominent boutiques, it gathers skilled artists and designers to give new life to classic designs.
STUDIO 183 draws inspiration from the unique perspectives and skillsets of these incredible individuals and incorporates their feedback into the designs for each new curation. With these eccentric garments, you are bound to stand out of the crowd.
“We use humour as a tool to spread positive energy. The bold colours of the pieces give the collection a fun and playful feeling. STUDIO183 Apparel’s message is about inclusivity and portraying a different look on the fashion industry.”
– STUDIO 183’s website
The History of STUDIO 183
When Katrina was in her mid-20s, she moved to New York City, where she quickly developed an interest in the fashion industry. As she worked in the backstage of fashion weeks, she fell in love with fashion. Soon after, she realised she wanted to promote small businesses and individual artists. As a result, she relocated back to Germany to join a publicity and distribution agency for fashion labels headquartered in Munich.
After a couple of years, she followed her heart to Berlin, Katrina approached many Berlin shops, asking whether she might rent display space. Nonetheless, retail suffered. She had the notion to rent a place and split the costs with other artists and designers she’d met at the flea market. With the help of her then-partner, the filmmaker and photographer Mark Hunt, they were able to realize their first pop-up project.
The mall has long set itself apart from its competitors by portraying itself as a collection of unique shops and restaurants. The concept store has given a platform to young, up-and-coming designers and brands to have a voice and display their talents.
Written by Ravan Clowers
All images are courtesy of STUDIO 183.
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