Esther Perbandt - Berlin fashion art all black
in short….
avante-garde cross-gender fashion in Berlin Mitte
„black is colourful“ - charming slogan for a charming shop
the super-friendly designer can often be met in person here at the flagship store
In the heart of Mitte district, Esther Perbandt’s flagship store sits on Almstadtstraße.
A string of black pennants fluttering above the sidewalk and a small bench by the door give the storefront the casual charm of a neighborhood gathering.
The iconic Berlin TV Tower watches over the city rooftops, gazing directly into Esther’s display window.
Every piece in the Berlin-based designer’s collection is steeped in black, her signature color.
Her gender-fluid designs break traditional molds, reimagining fashion with a bold artistic vision.
To us, Esther’s work feels like the embodiment of Berlin itself.
Black is Colorful
„Black is colorful, magical, elegant, and graceful. It stands for introspection and retreat, absorbs light while radiating warmth. Black is peaceful, yet marked by rebellion and destruction. It is rich, nurturing and simultaneously brimming with decay - closing the full circle of life.”
Esther Perbandt’s thoughtful brand philosophy completely resonates with us.
We admire how she combines her striking presence as a performance artist with an approachable, down-to-earth demeanor.
When we arrived at the store, Esther emerged directly from her atelier in the back to greet us, offering assistance with genuine warmth and no hint of pretension.
Fashion meets Art
Hanging on the wall is one of her art pieces, Planet E II.
For those who fall in love with it, like we did, its essence can also be found in her collection, reinterpreted “Rider Planet-E Jacket” or the made-to-order “Planet-E Silk Mini Jacket” (which I can’t stop dreaming about).
But Esther’s DNA as a designer goes beyond avant-garde creations like the beautifully flowing “Cutlery” maxi skirt.
Her collections also feature effortlessly cool staples, like T-shirts crafted from organic cotton. Some of these, like the „No Show” black-on-black tee, are the result of collaborations with other artists, such as Jaybo aka Monk.
This particular shirt has become a personal favorite of mine.
My latest purchase is a simple - naturally black - turtleneck dress made from eco-friendly bamboo fabric. It’s unbelievably soft and has quickly become a go-to everyday piece.
Paired with Esther’s signature „Cross” belt, it transforms into an effortlessly chic outfit.
An incredibly likeable Designer
Esther’s personal touch elevates every visit to her store. She doesn’t hesitate to assist with fittings and carefully wraps each purchase in delicate black tissue paper.
For those unable to make the trip to Berlin, her clothing, bags, jewelry and shoes are also available online.
But we believe there’s something truly special about meeting Esther in person, experiencing her warm energy and hearing her thoughts behind each piece.
And since we are already here, we can walk over to Sawade for a little treat or to Sofi for a coffee in less than ten minutes.
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