Germanier Debuts the First Collection of His Upcycling Brand Backed by LVMH
Prélude, a new luxury brand focused on upcycling led by creative director Kevin Germanier and spearheaded by LVMH, has unveiled its debut collection.
Developed in collaboration with Nona Source, a platform for sourcing surplus fabrics, and the start-up weturn, which won the LVMH Innovation Award in 2022, the Prélude collection represents the luxury conglomerate’s ongoing commitment to sustainable and circular fashion. The collection is centered around two primary goals: to create a desirable and commercially viable product line while maintaining the high standards of quality and refinement for which LVMH is known. Additionally, the Prélude collection ensures the anonymity of the original products, allowing for the creation of truly unique and innovative pieces.
The project, backed by LVMH and led by Kevin Germanier, an upcycling pioneer, was first unveiled at the LIFE 360 Summit last December. This event highlighted LVMH’s environmental strategy and set the stage for the Prélude collection, which focuses on the creative process of “creating, deconstructing, and recreating” while pushing the boundaries of sustainable design.
“Prélude is highlighting the development of new skills, enabling an unprecedented level of creativity to be achieved,” according to LVMH. These techniques include strip-cutting fabric to weave new textiles, unravelling garments to re-knit them, and exploring the art of crochet. The collection’s minimalist, back-to-basics approach uses single threads or strips of fabric to achieve a harmonious and elevated aesthetic, reimagining the creative cycle while exploring new creative frontiers.
A graduate of Central Saint Martins in London, Germanier quickly made a name for himself with his innovative use of upcycled materials, creating vibrant, avant-garde pieces from discarded fabrics and deadstock materials. His designs are characterized by bright colors, intricate embellishments, and an emphasis on sustainability without sacrificing glamour or creativity.
Germanier gained early recognition after winning the Redress Design Award in 2015, a competition focused on sustainable fashion. In 2018, he launched his eponymous label, Germanier, which has since become a standout in the fashion industry for its eco-conscious ethos and futuristic aesthetics. His designs have been worn by celebrities like Björk, Lady Gaga, and Kristen Stewart, further cementing his reputation for producing eye-catching, innovative couture.
