6 June 2025  On June 5, Vienna's fashion scene unfolded in two distinct chapters—each representing a different facet of Austria's design culture. While Mode Wien at Am Hof celebrated the craftsmanship and dedication of local designers with close customer ties, the Universität für angewandte Kunst (Angewandte) spotlighted emerging talents poised for an international career. Mode Wien: A Showcase of Local Craft and Customer LoyaltyMode Wien is the fashion platform of the Vienna Guild of Fashion and Clothing Technology, part of the Vienna Economic Chamber (Wirtschaftskammer Wien). It supports and connects Austrian fashion creators through its own publications, pop-up events, and seasonal fashion shows. The latest event, held at Vienna's historic Am Hof square, brought a wide range of designers together, offering the public a unique overview of contemporary Austrian tailoring. More than 30 labels participated, including Edith Langer, Patrizia Markus - Atelier Pollsiri, Alexandra Gogolok-Nagl CoutureWerkstatt, and Inge Cecka - ZOË by Inge Cecka. While these names may not appear on international runways, they represent a stable backbone of Vienna's fashion landscape. Their focus is on quality craftsmanship and personal relationships with loyal customers rather than global recognition. For many attendees, the event was an opportunity to reconnect with their favorite ateliers, discover new pieces, and experience the breadth of styles—from contemporary minimalism to detailed couture. The fashion show was followed by an "En Suite Verkauf" (private sales event), which continues until June 7 in Fütterergasse, offering direct access to the designers' latest creations.Angewandte's Fashion Show: A Glimpse into the Future of Global DesignIn contrast, the annual graduate show of the Angewandte's fashion department served as a launchpad for a new generation of designers seeking to engage with the global stage. On the same day, the University of Applied Arts Vienna (Die Angewandte) hosted its Show Modeklasse in the Atrium of the university, showcasing the creative output of 34 fashion students. The presentation was shaped not only by highly individual design statements but also by international collaboration—such as the live soundtrack created by artist Zebra Katz. The collections addressed topics ranging from personal identity to societal shifts and showcased experimental use of materials and form. Green's approach emphasizes fearlessness and process, which was clearly reflected on the runway. Two awards were presented during the show: Dian Adhami received the RONDO Modepreis 2025, endowed with €5,000 and supported by Almdudler. The award also includes a feature in the current issue of RONDO, the lifestyle magazine of Der Standard. The WIEN MITTE The Mall Award, worth a total of €2,500, was awarded to Nathalie Simone Duran Rodriguez and Liam Noel Pfefferkorn. The recipients were selected by Craig Green. This year's international jury—including figures such as Olivier Saillard, Karla Otto, and Carla Laemmle—reinforced the show's strong international positioning. The full video of the Angewandte 2025 fashion show is publicly available on YouTube, offering wider audiences a chance to witness this pivotal moment in the careers of young Austrian designers.Image: The picture shows the outdoor setting and engaged audience at the Mode Wien fashion show at Am Hof in Vienna, highlighting the community-oriented atmosphere. Photo: © Fashion.at |