Starstyling (Berlin, Germany)

I remember once browsing Topshop in London's Oxford Circus and coming across a neon-colored tunic with little colorful pom-poms attached to the hem. My first thought was "ahh, gotta love the crazy London fashion sense". Well, it turns it this wasn't actually anything remotely local, but upon closer inspection, the brand behind the multi-colored creation was Starstyling - a German brand based in Berlin. Of course London tends to be the perfect place to market anything remotely different or eccentric, which is probably why I had completely forgotten about Starstyling until my recent trip to the German capital.

A selection from the FW09 lookbook (individual images: Starstyling).

Starstyling was founded in early 2000 by designer Katja Schlegel and her husband Kai Seifried with the aim of creating something that wasn't about fashion, but "dedicated to critical reflections... and visual reflections of trends and society in general". The brand profile goes on to state that the label is about "mocking fashion's strict aesthetics, it emphasizes its volatility instead, resulting in a colorful signature of revolt and play". If you have no idea what any of that means, it basically boils down to a brand that pokes fun at current trends (the name 'Starstyling' itself should be taken with a bit of irony), doesn't take itself too seriously, is quirky, creative and above all, features pieces that are as individual as the people who wear them.

Talk about jungle fever... overview of the store with an image of the designers on the wall (top), some sparkly totes (left) and a range of graphic printed tees (right).

The store wasn't one I had planned on visiting, but on my way to Lala Berlin, I passed the boutique window and caught a glimpse of what resembled a greenhouse. I did a double-take, slightly confused by the fact the windows were full of bright scarves, bags and urban chic clothes, yet the interior seemed to resemble a jungle. Of course I had to go in, and what greeted me were big leafy plants... lots of them. The floors were green as well, which supported the whole nature vibe going on, but the walls and shelves were decorated in silver metallic foil. I imagine this is what it would look like if aliens ever decided to plant a garden in their spaceship.

More tees, scarves and other accessories displayed on shiny silver shelves.

Now I know I've mentioned in a previous tag that neon colors aren't necessarily my thing, but despite the fact that Starstyling likes to play with color accents - the brighter the better - I must confess I loved a lot of their clothes and accessories. The catalog and runway looks are styled in such a way that would make most people wonder when on earth they'd get a chance to wear something like that, but everything is surprisingly wearable. And while I actually thought this brand was about streetwear, the looks are quite modern and very much about chic, slightly avant-garde designs.

Several smaller tables featured jewelry and other cute items, such as these buttons.

The current collection titled "die Kunst" (the art), features a lot of blue metallic leggings and tops (even for men), plenty of glittery accessories, including corset belts (again, men are supposed to wear these as well), but also a large number of comfy chunky knits, graphic tees and loose-fitted shirt dresses. The detailing is impeccable - and slightly bizarre at times: graphic tees are embroidered or printed, some accessories, such as the fabric brooches, are made of vintage tablecloths or socks, while confetti elements on bags or scarves are constructed out of recycled pages from Vogue Italia. The majority of the clothing is made of pure cotton, to allow for a higher comfort and a more liberal silhouette.

Chunky knits on the shelves and more towards the back hanging from racks (left) and quirky pom-pom scarves (right).

Starstyling also made it's first runway debut during this year's Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, presenting its SS10 collection. The range, titled "Hokus Fokus", featured pieces that included detachable accessories and elements, such as shoulder pads, sleeves or pockets, which allowed wearers to construct or deconstruct an outfit, instantly transforming a more sporty look into an elegant ensemble. The key is playfulness combined with functionality and contrasts such as matte versus shiny fabrics or simple cuts partnered with elaborate embellishments not only stand for great quality or unique designs, but also showcase the designers' sense of humor.

Masks and funky slippers were available as well...

A lot of what might be considered 'props' from the runway show, such as theatrical masks or crazy hats, were all for sale in the boutique. I saw a lot of glitter and color, but there were also entire racks full of simpler neutral-colored knit dresses or stylish black coats. The entire futuristic garden setting made the shopping experience quite a fun one, especially when I unintentionally ended up playing a game of hide-and-seek with the SA, who was desperately trying to locate me, while I was standing behind a giant fern looking at a shiny tote.

A knit sweater featuring hand-stitched silver tinsel (left).

Starstyling is available in quite a number of boutiques all over the world now, including the aforementioned Topshop or Colette in Paris. For those nowhere near a stockist, don't worry - they also have their own online store which ships worldwide, so take a browse if you get the chance.

SS10 runway looks (images: Starstyling, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week).

Address: Mulackstraße 4, 10119 Berlin
Opening Hrs: Mon-Fri: 12:00-19:00, Sat: 12:00-18:00
Starstyling Homepage and Online Shop