Team Credits:
Photography by Sanna Lindberg / Agent Molly
Styling by Natalie Olenheim / Rockson

Fashion Credits:
1) Chair by Anton Sander / DE-NE2.
2) Dress by Christina Prieth. Top Vintage from Humana.
3) Caps made of plaster by Natalie Olenheim.
4) Black Form Wooden Sculpture by ELAKFORM.
5) Checkered Chair by Anton Sander.
6) Jackets by Paris RE Made.
7) Capes by Julia Elin Weström.
8) Magentle Lounge Table Wooden Sculpture by ELAKFORM.
9) Brutale Disco Wooden Sculpture by ELAKFORM.
10) Jackets by Paris RE Made.
11) Chair by Anton Sander / PA Chair.
12) Belt by Maison Margiela.

After 300,000 years of existence, we humans have climbed the greasy pole and become the true masters of this planet we call Earth. Certainly, since the start of the industrial revolution some 200 years ago, our living standards have improved immensely. Child mortality, life expectancy and wealth have increased to levels previously unachievable.

But who pays the bill for this global prosperity? Planet Earth has been treated as an infinite source of riches, free to use as we see fit. But the limits are beginning to show. Overconsumption is perhaps the most significant contributor to climate change, jet-fuelled by advertising companies telling us that we are no good unless we buy the next thing.

The fashion industry is one of the main culprits. Globally, clothing production contributes more greenhouse gases than international flights and maritime shipping combined. Growing cotton requires vast amounts of water, and the production of synthetic fabrics such as polyester, spandex and nylon use up to 342 million barrels of oil per year. 

Fast fashion is now the fastest growing segment of the fashion industry. Two collection seasons per year is a thing of the past, and brands are constantly releasing new items to meet the growing demand of trend-sensitive consumers. In 1980, the average American consumer bought 12 clothing items per year. This figure has now risen to about 68 items per year, most of which are usually worn seven times or less before they are discarded. 

We spoke to Kirsi Niinimäki, Associate Professor in Design and the leader of the Fashion/Textiles Futures research group at Aalto University, for her view on the future of fashion. She describes how the current fashion system has an enormous negative environmental impact and how we as consumers have helped to maintain it. “We are part of the fashion system,” she says, “and the way consumers behave keeps up the system and the fashion business.” She explains how moving away from destructive business practices will require extensive changes: “We need new ways of consuming fashion. From a system-level approach, behaviour changes such as buying and throwing away less stuff would help slow down and shrink the system which would affect the environmental impact.”

What will be the biggest driver behind this shift, consumers or market changes, I ask? “The development is run by two powers. Consumers are becoming more aware as they increasingly understand the impact that fashion has on the planet. At the same time, I believe policy changes to be a more powerful tool to steer companies in more sustainable ways.”

Doing more with less is clearly the way forward. Paris RE Made is a French fashion brand that combines vintage designer items and deadstock fabrics into new designs. Xuan Thu Nguyen, creative director at Paris RE Made, tells The Forumist how she thinks overconsumption affects us: “I think it makes us greedy. It is an old mindset which is slowly turning into a more conscious way of looking at things and life.”

The high-status value of the designer items used in the designs of Paris RE Made is not lost as it is transformed into new pieces.  Reusing and recycling instead add value,  according to Nguyen. “In terms of status symbol,” she says, “more high-end design items already have a heritage history, a history of quality. To be able to re-design those pieces into more contemporary items or more updated wearable versions for consumers only add more value to the design piece and the whole story behind it.”

She believes that people are increasingly adopting a more holistic way of thinking, but that this comes with its challenges as well. “People are turning more towards sustainability,” she explains. “But I understand it is not possible for every consumer. Being sustainable in fashion is not cheap and it is a mindset that is not understandable for most consumers/buyers. You need to know what you buy, where it comes from and how it is made. Being conscious about sustainability, recycling, upcycling, and knowing where your product comes from is already a good start. Start small is better than no start at all.”

Remaking old fashion pieces is one way of cutting down on resource use. But French designer Marianna Ladreyt has a slightly different approach. Her latest collection is made from salvaged inflatable pool animals which she has turned into garments and accessories. She explains how the inspiration came to her during a walk along the beach: “Last summer, I was walking on the beach side, and I saw a blow-up animal that was thrown next to a garbage bin. I instantly got triggered and couldn’t stop thinking of it.” Marianna brought home the discarded pool toy and started experimenting. “I decided to try something with it once I got back to my studio, because I found the ‘fabric’ super interesting. It is waterproof, shiny, super colourful and beautiful. In the end, all my experiments worked and I decided to go further with those pool-animal skins and work with them as a kind of fake leather to create bags, accessories and even ready-to-wear.”

Marianna believes overconsumption leads to a disconnect, both from ourselves and the products in itself. “To me, one of the worst effects of overconsumption is that it disconnects us, humans, from our own nature, our actual needs and wants. It makes us loose our perception of exchange in the process of buying. We don’t understand the product anymore.”

She ends the interview by giving some advice for more mindful consumption. “I guess we can all make small but essential steps in this way, but to me, I would say consume less or just ‘better’. Buying from small, ethical and local businesses, rather than large brands that greenwash. I have to say that I’m not against consumption as an idea, because I think it’s part of what we are as humans, and that is what is making us innovate nonstop. It should just be a beautiful innovation that makes us more connected to nature as a whole and our own natures and not for the sake of money.”

There is magic in decluttering both your wardrobe and your head, with the liberation from physical objects and mental weight they carry. Like the tidying expert Marie Kondo says, why keep anything that does not inspire joy?

Image Credits:
Clothes, bags and accessories by Marianna Ladreyt, photo Boris Ovini. 
Look from FW2022 collection by Paris Re Made, photo Diane Sangnier.
Cushion by Paris Re Made, photo Lan Nguyen

A new generation of creators is changing the industry towards a sustainable approach. These designers show their smarts in terms of sustainability by making treasures from found objects and creativity, a reminder that beauty is everywhere to be seen and there are no rules.

Yet colorful

Matilda Little, a painter by trade, now creates designs of an artist still grappling with the possibilities and challenges of their craft – a new discipline, a new order. 

– Working with metal requires a completely different way of thinking about things. I think the fact that I was suddenly working with a more limited palette really helped me to concentrate more on form, without having to worry about juggling colour. The abstract form comes to life as it is, yet colorful, says Matilda. 

Unbreakable creations 

The whole BONDY brand is mainly known for its colorful tulle dresses. They explore the intersection of fashion and art in creating wearable, modern couture – super bold, fun, edgy and dreamy.

– Each color in our collections is carefully curated depending on what we want to express and what feeling we want to convey. By mixing heavy hardware with delicate fabrics we can balance softness and stiffness – an interesting mix because one element supports the other contrasting element, and together they are unbreakable, says Judith Bondy, founder of Bondy. 

Perfectly faceted 

Exploring florals from a tech point of view gave Quinta Maso their inspiration for “La Contessa ”. Their creation is perfectly faceted and pixelated, forming a garden from afar – an open-source artwork seen through an irrelevant and joyful lens. 

– Color is everything. Color has an immense power to influence people’s feelings, and when used in an accessory it has the capacity to boost not only a look but a mood, says Paula Maso, founder of Quinta Maso. 

A sensual and sexual relationship

“wet-look” orchid earrings – upcycled and predominantly pre-owned artificial flowers. Josefine Neumann, the founder of MILCHSHAKE, creates something that isn’t really obvious what it is made of. 

– The natural, artificial body and nature are something I have in mind when designing the orchid earrings. All of my pieces are unique, sometimes I find one or two out of the same flower and color on my treasure hunt, I could even end up designing in the actual second-hand store, says Josefine. 

Looking back, respecting the old

Avidue’s design is for everyone and anyone in the urban landscape in which we live. Straight lines and angles, cracks and decay created by time – the two-sidedness of the urban environment. 

– I think being raised in the city you learn to both love and hate it, hence the fascination with its two-sidedness. I’ve always dreamt about new places, and I’ve been affected by my surroundings. The collection is a result of playing with angels, creating something interesting but still balanced, like exploring new territories in your city.

Worry, Peace, Protection

Lady P creates handmade accessories from beach or riverside foraged ‘HagStones’ (rocks with natural holes made by the ebb and flow of water), which, according to folklore, have healing magic, and prevent nightmares and protect the wearer, especially in times of crisis.

– There is something with mantras around our necks and bold statements. And this one comes with a secret.

 Influenced by spoons. 

Joanne.T’s collection “Little Objects: Silverware” is a collection of earrings inspired by tableware, visually influenced by actual spoons during the covid lockdown – truly sleek and too irresistible not to talk about. 

–  This collection aims to explore and rediscover the value, aesthetic essence, and sensibility of objects that are common in our daily life. I want my jewelry to stimulate conversations as well as a form of self-expression. Not just an object of decoration

A sourcing trajectory

Sourced vintage pieces by high-end luxury brands, in a new touch, exclusively made for you, something to marinate for a while. Paris re Made is handpicking it!

– The sourcing trajectory is a challenge as well as a delightful treasure hunt. By refreshing and re-tailoring these pieces we turn them into new classics, still maintaining the origin. We teach you to re-love unappreciated clothes, to re-wear them.

Challenging the laws of physic

Clara Fina’s earrings in clay and silk really draw attention. They are colorful, huge but also super lightweight – maybe one-day becoming “classics” as she says herself. 

– As I work parallelly with Silk and clay, I realize that these materials share more characteristics than what I initially knew. With the light material, I was able to make sculptural pieces with a textile feel that seem to challenge the laws of physics – you can wear them for a long time without your ears falling off!

Team Credits:
Words by Mark Bergkvist
Photography by Nils Löfholm
Styling by Ken Mogekwu
Hair & Make-up by Amanda Dahl
Manicure by Amanda Dahl
Model/talent: Océane, Kaila

Fashion Credits:
1) Sweater by A.O.A ATELIER, necklace by Matilda Little, ring by Matilda Little
2) Bag by Bondy
3) Headpiece by Freja Wesik
4) Scarf by Quinta Maso, earrings by Pantolin, blazer by Oliver Oppermann
5) Earrings by MILCHSHAKE, top by Anna Loesel
6) Scarf by Quinta Maso, ring by Avidue, beret by T Mitrovska
7) Ring by Matilda Little
8) Scarf by Quinta Maso
9) Earrings by Lady P, necklace by Lady P, top by Sirloin
10) Earring by JOANNE T, ear cuff by JOANNE T
11) Earring by KISKA LAB, bolo tie by KISKA LAB, waistcoat by Bondy
12) Earring by MILCHSHAKE , top by Anna Loesel
13) Cap by Paris Re Made, top by Bondy
14) All jewelry by JOANNE T
15) Earring by MILCHSHAKE
16) Earring by Clara Fina, dress by Naomi Tarazi

This time, evolving as a forum to complete our original vision as a gathering point for the informed, elevated creatives and dedicated innovation lovers from around the world to communicate and share the same vision, outlook, and tone of voice within art, fashion, design, and beauty. 

We are extremely proud to announce the launch of a new platform and forum for inspiration, support, collaboration, and exchange to disrupt the existing patterns and to improve and inspire toward a sustainable and better future.

Here are a few of our amazing talents represented and a starting point for the new area.

Team Credits:
Photography by Nils Löfholm
Styling by Aleks Srn

Fashion Credits:
1: Felted Long Sleeve Top and Stirrup Yoga Trousers, Mint Green by Anna Loesel.
2: Body Blouse Balance and Pants Balance by A.O.A.
3: Linen Jeans With Stud Detail And Distressed Finish and ‘Branchiae’ Mesh Tank With Leather Applications by Göran Sundberg.
4: Dress by Kristin Boström.
5: Ö-Top by Helena Stölting. Gathered Suit Jacket by Anna Loesel.
6: Brown Iconic Bomber and Jeans Front Flap by Paris Re Made.
7: Half And Half Top and Bare Ass Trousers by Elin Arvidsson.
8: O-Sweater by Anna Loesel. Shell Earrings by Lady P.
9: Wave Pants In Denim by Naomi Tarazi. ‘Branchiae’ Nylon Shell Hooded Poncho with Vents by Göran Sundberg.
10: Felted Long Sleeve Top and Stirrup Yoga Trousers in Mint Green by Anna Loesel.
11: Asymmetrical Nude Dress by Christina Prieth.
12: Bomber Puffer Jacket by Paris Re Made.
13: Asymmetrical Belted Workwear Jacket and Workwear Pants by Tatiana Quard.
14: ‘Cutting’ Panelled Striped Cotton Shirt, ‘Cutting’ Paneled Striped Relaxed Wool Jacket and ‘Cutting’ Paneled Striped Relaxed Wool Trouser by Göran Sundberg.
15: Under-bust Corset and Gloves by Elin Arvidsson. Beaded Tooth Hoops by Helena Stölting.
16: Asymmetrical Belted Workwear Jacket by Tatiana Quard.
17: New Page Dress by Christina Prieth.
18: ‘Cutting’ Panelled Striped Cotton Shirt, ‘Cutting’ Paneled Striped Relaxed Wool Jacket and ‘Cutting’ Paneled Striped Relaxed Wool Trouser by Göran Sundberg.
19: Drip Top, Yellow by Helena Stölting. Bare Ass Trousers by Elin Arvidsson.
20: Adjustable Lace Top and Wrap Lace Skirt by Kristin Boström.
21: Pink Hand-Dyed Crop Pull Knit by A.O.A. Bare Ass Trousers by Elin Arvidsson.
22: Body Blouse Balance and Pants Balance by A.O.A.
23: Bomber Puffer Jacket by Paris Re Made. Wave Pants In Denim by Naomi Tarazi.
24: Butterfly Babe Top Baby Pink by Helena Stölting. Pulled Puffer by Elin Arvidsson. Satin Pants Baby Blue by A.O.A.
25: Drip Top, Black by Helena Stölting. ‘Seraphina’ Stretch Pants by Bondy.
26: YSL Trench Denim Jacket by Paris Re Made. Mid-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans In White Denim by Göran Sundberg.

Here we stand before three young Swedish musicians who in their own ways tell the story of climbing to unbelievable heights. Coming from three different backgrounds, dabbling in three different genres, Omar Rudberg, Jireel and Greekazo have all managed to reach fame and recognition at a very early age. Not one of these three modern day marvels has yet reached the age of 25 (Greekazo is 20 years old, Jireel is 21 and Omar 22) but have already been in the public eye for years. 

Jireel, the smooth hip-hop vocalist, whose flows over characteristically suave beats have landed him a Swedish Grammy (among other prizes), has been dubbed one of the most promising performers on the Scandinavian music scene today. Greekazo had countless international listeners trying to decipher his Swedish shocking bars about chocolate bars in his decadent anthem ‘FÖRSENT’ (‘Too late’) when the song was featured in the Netflix smash-hit series Snabba Cash. Omar has reached fans worldwide as a member of neo-boy band FO&O, f.k.a. The Fooo Conspiracy, and is now turning a new page with a solo project and a blossoming acting career that started with a part in another Netflix hit show, Young Royals. 

Omar Rudberg feels most at home on stage, which is where he longs to be after this past year of hopelessness. “I finally want to release a lot of music,” he says enthusiastically. “I want to revitalize myself as an artist, live on phat stages where I can feel the adrenaline again!”

Omar has not always been this certain about being the centre of attention, but in a way that feeling might have steered him to where he is today. “In school, I was an outsider,” Omar says. “I don’t know if I’m an outsider anymore, but I can still sometimes feel like one. It has impacted me in both a good and a bad way. The good thing about it is that I have focused on chasing my dreams.”

Since then, Omar has succeeded both in music – with FO&O and as a solo artist – and as an actor in teen drama Young Royals. He says he is “grateful for getting a leading part in a Netflix show that has become an international hit. It has affected my music through millions of fans beginning to follow me, being interested in who I am and what kind of music I make. Now, I have a lot of people waiting for new music from me. I wouldn’t have believed it if you told me that during the summer of 2020.” 

The second season of Young Royals premières in 2022, but right now Omar says, “I’m focusing on my music”. 

Jireel’s sensitive, emotional sound has achieved its form step by step, and this gradual change is noticeable across the four albums he has released since 2017.

“I think my personal development takes place in my music,” he says. “The success also contributes to my personal growth, since I write about things I experience and see.” 

Commenting on his genre’s extreme accomplishments in Scandinavia in recent years, Jireel says: “I believe Swedish hip-hop will surpass itself and continue to break down the barriers you’ve believed to be unbreakable. Hip-hop will continue to be a strong genre in Sweden, and I think we can expect lots of artists going international.”

Jireel describes his latest album, 1953, as “a very personal and dark project about my family”. It seems like he gathers strength from his family and his close friends, all of whom have played their parts in his success. “They have helped me by always being themselves, being a hundred percent honest towards me. I don’t have a bunch of ‘yes men’ around me who just say what I want to hear – I have friends and family who say what I need to hear.”

Looking forward to getting back on the road, Jireel says he has devoted the past year revitalizing his live show, taking it to the next level. “I think people will be shocked when they see what we have to offer.”

Greekazo, the gritty street poet representing Stockholm suburb Hässelby (“Wherever I end up, Hässelby is and will always be my home,” he says), sucker punches holes in provocative punchlines like there’s no tomorrow, pestering Swedish moralisers who are unable to understand his obvious societal function. 

For the most part, Greekazo is the truth teller Sweden might not deserve but the one it needs, a small stroke on the canvas of possibility. In lyrics packed like a Big Mac with millennial references, ’kazo is brutally honest about his light-shy endeavours, because that’s what suburban reality looks like today. Like one of the songs off his latest album 6TON5 states, this young rapper does not, in fact, give a fuck. Greekazo is not too late, nor is he too early. As it seems, he has hit Sweden at the exact right time. 

“Today, I can be more personal in my lyrics than I could before” ’kazo says about his artistic progress since his debut at an early age. “I have developed my sound and dared to try new things, like singing, for example. That would have been completely inconceivable two years ago.”

After his rapid start in the music business, launched when his very first single ‘HotSpot’ made him the hot new talent, there are still no signs of Greekazo pausing for breath. “This last year, I’ve been locked up in the studio, trying to create new music. When I lost my first summer tour, it was a real backlash and I became unmotivated for a while. Playing live is the great driving force for me as an artist. I love being on tour.”

Whatever the future holds, it seems bright when you start out as early and as strongly as Jireel, Greekazo and Omar Rudberg. 

@officialomar; @jireellavia; @greekazo

Team Credits:
Words by FILIP LINDSTRÖM
Photography by JOHN SCARISBRICK
Styling & direction by FERNANDO TORRES
Hair: JESPER HALLIN at Mikas Looks
Make-up: ELVIRA BRANDT
Styling assistant: KEN MOGEKWU

Fashion Credits:
#1 Jacket by BLK DNM, shoes by J. LINDEBERG,
#2 Jacket and hat by STAND STUDIO, trousers by BLANK ATELIER. shoes by VAGABOND
#3 Jacket and Jeans by PARIS RE MADE, T-shirt by FILIPPA K, shoes by VAGABOND
#4 Shirt and trousers by ADNYM ATELIER, shoes by AXEL ARIGATO, jewelry Jireel´s own.
#5 Full look by AXEL ARIGATO
#6 Jacket by WOOLRICH. army hoodie by TIMBALAND, trousers, and Shoes by AXEL ARIGATO