Mylène van de Sande finds inspiration in ‘Plattenbau’

1. Please introduce yourself to our readers. (Who are you, where do you come from and what is your field of specialization?) 

I am Mylène van de Sande. I’m a Dutch fashion designer, educated in Rotterdam and currently living and working in Berlin. 

2. Tell us a little bit about the concept behind your collection. 

The collection is based on ‘Plattenbau’. Plattenbau is the model of extreme architectonical simplicity. Monotony. The size and scale of the complete are of such, that details can be missed. Those flats were mainly build under communist regime and according to communism doctrine, were meant for the ideal human being.
This collection is designed with the same architectonical simplicity in mind, combined with influences of casual clothing. Just as the Plattenbau flats are all made out of concrete, the outfits will all be made out of the same white fabric, with screen printed color blocks. 

3. What does the name “The greyest is close to the greatest” say about your collection? 

The greyest: as in the most monotonous and directed subjects - a human being, a building etc. which is through a communist eye (and concerning the architecture in mine) seen as ideal: the greatest. The greyest is close to the greatest. 

4. What made you move from the Netherlands to Berlin? 

It’ a combination of isolation and inspiration. 

5. What made you decide to do a mixed collection? 

I like to complete a look and in my eyes it takes male and female for a total image. I find it more interesting but I do like unisex collections, too. 

6. How do you personally define “fashionclash” or “a clash with fashion” for yourself? 

I think it’s mostly a great stage for young designers, and besides that a nice way to get in contact with other designers and people working on ‘a fashionclash’. Also, I do like to think across borders, scenes and disciplines.