Twice a year, Fashion Mining Netherlands is eagerly looking forward to the Amfi Graduation Show; A festive evening in which up -and -coming talent literally and figuratively conquers the stage. This time this spectacular highlight took place for the first time by Open Space in Amsterdam, an industrial location that was the perfect decor for the innovative graduation collections that splashed the craftsmanship.
On Stage: physical and digital looks
The versatility of fashion training was reflected in powerful looks and daring eye -catchers on the catwalk. In a mix of physical and digital designs, the AMFI students showed their technical skills and their creative view of the future of fashion. One of the digital designers, Rhandy van Duin, impressed with his provocative collection on the theme of self -love and sexuality. With six layered looks, he examines gender expression, self -acceptance and empowerment in a digital context. Rhandy’s question to the audience, “Who are you when the screen turns you on?”, Nobody left. His digital presentation received a thunderous applause.
Personal growth and traditional details
With her collection of Maria Magdalena, Maeggie Weigel gives a renewed and modern interpretation of traditional clothing. She herself was born and raised in Wolnzach, Germany, a region where traditional costume is deeply rooted. In her designs she interweaves elements – such as ‘Lederhosen’, ‘Dirndl’ and embroidery – in an innovative way. With her strong looks, Maeggie took the audience during the show in a story about rebellion, self -acceptance and individual growth. “I show that I have followed my own path, but now also embrace my roots,” she says. The final piece, a contemporary wedding dress with an impressive sleep, beautifully symbolized the fusion between classic and modern.
Fashion as a lifebuoy
Ruben.Jai Braun was allowed to close the show. He used the catwalk to tell a powerful and personal story. Inspired by the raw 90s hip -hop culture and his own journey to creative freedom, he combines denim, leather and Jersey in surprising and innovative ways. His traditional washings embody a unique balance between raw and luxury. The silhouettes are modern and innovative; Tight around the shoulders and chest, oversized in length. “Fashion saved my life,” says Ruben, who has been on the ground before he started the training. His collection reflects his transformation and ambition, and shows how he now has the tools to tell inspiring and compelling stories through fashion.
A new standard for fashion presentations
They have just started, but the fashion world is richer in fashion richer after the fantastic Graduation Show of Amfi 28 Changemakers. The unforgettable evening was entirely devoted to their creativity and innovation and in the raw setting of by Open Space, the graduation collections came to life piece by piece.