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Rheinfrank Antique Jewellery

Rheinfrank Antique Jewellery

Antique Jewellery
*Timeless Rings, Now in Munich & Berlin

 

written SARAH ARENDTS

 

Rheinfrank Antique Jewellery opens paths into the world of vintage engagement rings. The brand crafts pieces rooted in history, gemstones, and timeless design.

 

Each ring comprises heritage, artistic detail, and symbolic power. Rheinfrank draws you into a space where love becomes visible in silver, gold, and platinum settings. Rheinfrank Antique Jewellery operates from two physical showrooms: one in Berlin Mitte and a newly opened space in Munich. The Munich showroom invites meetings by appointment, showcasing the same passion and selection found in Berlin. In each location, rings sit under soft light, gemstones radiate hues, and every setting tells a story written in craftsmanship.

 
 
 

Every piece in the Rheinfrank collection holds meaning. Diamonds shine with eternal promise. Sapphires carry calm and depth. Rubies pulse with warmth and bold passion. Emeralds reveal lush green glimmers. Colored gemstones such as aquamarine, peridot, and tourmaline deliver subtle charm. Art Deco styles shape many rings with geometry, symmetry, and detailed filigree. Every facet, every cut, and every setting expresses devotion through design.

Rheinfrank sources rings that preserve eras. Victorian engravings, Edwardian details, jewelry from early 20th century Art Nouveau—all pieces with provenance. Jewelry discoverable online, and in showrooms where hands can trace the filigree, eyes can follow reflections in gem surfaces. Each ring is restored with care. Settings checked, stones secured, and patinas preserved where they enrich the story.

Expert guidance awaits every visitor. The team facilitates selection with attention to fit, personality, gemstone quality, and design style. Consultation sessions in Munich and Berlin offer evaluation of rings, explanation of gemstone clarity, cut, color, and setting styles. Ring sizes adapted. Repairs and restorations handled with precision. Every engagement ring feels chosen, not merely bought.

 
 
 

Rheinfrank Antique Jewellery’s showroom in Munich opens new doors for those seeking vintage rings closer to home. The Munich showroom mirrors the care, the inventory, and the detail of Berlin’s original space. Each showroom presents signature pieces and rare finds. Some rings travel between locations to offer highlighting moments. Clients in Munich find access to large-scale catalogues, old-world stone settings, and personal service. Berlin remains anchor, Munich expands presence, both rooted in genuine antique jewellery culture.

Gemstones form the heart of every ring. Brilliant cut, rose cut, cushion, old mine cuts: diverse shapes that echo history. Gold, rose gold, platinum settings crafted to highlight each gem. Settings hand-polished. Fine details like engraving, milgrain edges, bezel settings all care for authenticity. Materials selected for their original quality and durability. Rings resist time.

Rheinfrank Antique Jewellery pushes craftsmanship forward. Restoration workshops ensure longevity. Each ring repaired to honor original design. Cleaned with methods that preserve character. Gemstones tightened without losing hallmarks. Every ring remains heirloom-worthy.

 

Rheinfrank stands for vintage engagement rings, gemstones, expert craftsmanship, and physical presence in Germany. Berlin and Munich offer choice and experience. Whether drawn by Art Deco geometry, Victorian engraving, nature motifs in Art Nouveau, or the quiet elegance of an old cut diamond—each piece offers voice to a love story.

Visit Rheinfrank Antique Jewellery in Berlin Mitte or the new Munich showroom to see, feel, and choose rings that carry light, fire, and timeless devotion. Reach out for appointments. Let history become part of your promise.

 
 
 

Von Köck *Ethical Luxury Redefined

Von Köck *Ethical Luxury Redefined

Von Köck Ethical Luxury
*Timeless Craftsmanship x Sustainable Luxury

 

written Monica de Luna

 

Vienna’s luxury jeweler VON KÖCK stands as a symbol of sustainable craftsmanship, blending heritage with a forward-thinking approach to ethical luxury.

 

For over 28 years, this family-led brand has been shaping the world of fine jewelry under the careful guidance of Felix Köck and Nattaya Englinger, creating timeless pieces with a commitment to artistry and responsibility.

 
 

Each creation by VON KÖCK tells a story. Whether it's a diamond bracelet, sapphire earrings, or an engagement ring, these masterpieces are crafted to become cherished heirlooms. The brand’s focus on sustainability runs deep, from the responsible sourcing of gemstones to the personal relationships they maintain with select mines, ensuring ethical practices every step of the way. A hallmark of their innovative approach is the Sahara collection, which celebrates "Recycled Jewelry" by repurposing diamonds from pre-existing sources like inheritances and auctions. No new diamonds are mined for this collection, allowing VON KÖCK to reimagine luxury without compromising the planet’s resources. Each diamond is carefully recut, certified, and brought back to life with a contemporary edge.

 

VON KÖCK has also expanded into the world of pre-certified watches, launching the VON KÖCK Selected collection. These timepieces, ranging from Rolex to Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe, are historical treasures. Sourced from esteemed collectors, each watch is meticulously inspected and certified, offering access to rare models that continue to embody craftsmanship and legacy.

Sustainability remains at the heart of everything VON KÖCK creates. By working exclusively with conflict-free gemstones and focusing on traditional Austrian handcraft, the brand ensures that every piece is as ethical as it is beautiful. VON KÖCK’s dedication to craftsmanship and the environment makes each piece a statement of luxury and a testament to a larger vision—where timeless beauty meets responsible design.

 
VON KÖCK Sustainability Jewelry LE MILE Magazine
 
VON KÖCK Sustainability Jewelry LE MILE Magazine
VON KÖCK Sustainability Jewelry LE MILE Magazine
 

discover www.vonkoeck.com
follow @vonkoeck

VON KÖCK Sahara Collection

VON KÖCK Sahara Collection

.new collection
VON KÖCK
*Ancient Elegance with Sahara Collection

 

written Amanda Mortenson

 

Vienna's elite Graben pulses with whispered histories, and at its core, VON KÖCK, Austria's premier jeweler, is shaking up the luxury scene with an ethical twist.

 

The launch of their Heritage and Recycling Diamond Jewelry Collection last year sent shockwaves through Europe’s high-end jewelry market, intertwining opulence with sustainability and setting a new benchmark for conscientious luxury. Building on this momentum, VON KÖCK has now expanded its revolutionary Sahara Collection. This latest addition signifies a new step towards eco-friendly elegance, demonstrating that high-end jewelry can honor the earth and its discerning wearers.

 
 
Sahara Diamond Loop Large Yellow VON KÖCK LE MILE Magazine

Sahara Diamond Loop Large Yellow

 
Sahara Open Drop Yellow Earrings VON KÖCK LE MILE Magazine

Sahara Open Drop Yellow Earrings

 
 

The Sahara Collection is VON KÖCK’s bold manifesto on environmental stewardship. These diamonds are time travelers, sourced from estates, heirlooms, and auctions, carrying whispers of the past. Through painstaking craftsmanship, each gem is reborn—recut, polished, and recertified to contemporary perfection. This process ensures the exceptional quality VON KÖCK is famed for while leaving no fresh environmental scars.

Every piece in the Sahara Collection is a harmonious blend of history and modernity, each telling its own unique story. The Sahara Open Drop Small exudes delicate grace, while the Sahara Diamond Loop Large commands attention. The Sahara Open Drop Bracelet and the Sahara 3 Stone Ring blend classic charm with avant-garde flair.

 

“Our Sahara Collection - a mesmerizing journey where ancient gemstones are reborn with a modern touch. Each piece is a testament to history, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.”

Felix von Köck, VON KÖCK

 
 
 
Sahra Open Drop Small Yellow LE MILE Magazine VON KÖCK

Sahra Open Drop Small Yellow

Sahara 3 Stone Pendant Yellow LE MILE Magazine VON KÖCK

Sahara 3 Stone Pendant Yellow

Sahara 3 Stone Ring Yellow LE MILE Magazine VON KÖCK

Sahara 3 Stone Ring Yellow

 
 

Visionary leaders Felix Köck and Nattaya Englinger breathe new life into a legacy that spans generations. At the heart of their mission is a fierce dedication to environmental responsibility and a commitment to offering only the finest, most ethically sourced creations.

“The fusion of tradition and innovation, creating an atmosphere full of imagination and values where our work can flourish and grow into new dimensions - this is the world of VON KÖCK.”

says Felix Köck, encapsulating the brand’s philosophy.

 
 
 

discover www.vonkoeck.com
follow @vonkoeck

VANDA NOVAK *FW24 Collection

VANDA NOVAK *FW24 Collection

.designer´s talk
with Dominika Nowak
Step into the Future with VANDA NOVAK

 

written Amanda Mortenson

 

Few names in fashion carry the raw, unapologetic spirit of innovation like VANDA NOVAK. The FW24 Collection marks a radical departure from past seasons while fiercely holding onto its avant-garde roots.

 

VANDA NOVAK doesn’t follow trends; it sets them. "I try not to look for already blazed trails and not to follow trends closely. I always try to find my own way and think as abstractly as possible, somewhat detached from what is happening during fashion weeks. A bit contrary to reality," says the designer. This philosophy comes to life in the brand´s FW24 Collection, where traditional craftsmanship collides with modern aesthetics, crafting a harmony that’s revolutionary and timeless.

LE MILE Magazine VANDA NOVAK FW24 Collection package design
 
 

“I want to make shoes that are very sensual but comfortable, contemporary but referring to tradition, feminine and delicate but strong in expression.”

Dominika Nowak speaks with Amanda Mortenson
LE MILE Magazine Digital, 2024

 
LE MILE Magazine VANDA NOVAK Dominika Nowak portrait by Tatiana Hajduk

ANDA NOVAK, Dominika Nowak
seen by Tatiana Hajduk

 

The collection dares to play with form, blending round and geometric shapes in a dance of contrasts. Picture extremely long boots with metal toes, round silver slingbacks, and square Art Deco mules. At the heart of it all is the image of a woman - a diva, drenched in glitter and metal, exuding confidence and elegance. "Winter is a sad, gray time in my latitude - hence the longing for sparkle and light," NOVAK reveals.

Balancing opposing elements is NOVAK's forte. "In my life, I try to follow the philosophy of balance, avoiding radicalism. It's a bit like a constant search for the golden mean," she explains. This quest is evident in the collection’s ability to merge sensuality with comfort, modernity with tradition, and delicacy with strength.

Footwear, often seen as mere accessories, becomes the centerpiece in NOVAK’s world. Each piece demands attention, redefining the concept of statement shoes. "A shoe is an important accessory to clothing. It can make the same outfit look completely different. It can redefine the silhouette and its character," NOVAK asserts. The FW24 collection embodies this belief, turning footwear into potent expressions of identity and style.

NOVAK's creative process is as unconventional as her designs. "I have no idea how I do it... I follow what I feel and what is authentic to me. I hope that sometimes I succeed," she admits. This authenticity shines through in every piece, inviting wearers into a world where tradition meets innovation and fashion becomes a journey of discovery.

 
LE MILE Magazine VANDA NOVAK FW24 shoe
LE MILE Magazine VANDA NOVAK FW24 shoe
LE MILE Magazine VANDA NOVAK FW24 shoe

VANDA NOVAK
FW24 Collection

 
 

As VANDA NOVAK continues to shatter the boundaries of contemporary footwear, the FW24 Collection stands as a testament to her vision. This is a bold statement, a rebellion against the conventional, and an invitation to embrace the daring and the beautiful. In NOVAK's realm, fashion transcends mere clothing—it's an experience and a revolution, one groundbreaking step at a time.

 
 

VON KÖCK *Redefining Wedding Luxury

VON KÖCK *Redefining Wedding Luxury

.curated selection
VON KÖCK
*Redefining Wedding Luxury

 

written Amanda Mortenson

 

VON KÖCK is the epitome of elegance and sophistication, making every piece a testament to love and commitment.

 

VON KÖCK's dazzling jewelry collection ensures your special day is unforgettable. This Viennese luxury jeweler, renowned for their meticulous craftsmanship and bespoke designs, offers everything from timeless engagement rings to enchanting earrings, bracelets, and, of course, wedding bands.

VON KÖCK OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL SIXTIES PANORAMADATUM BREGUET TRADITION 7097BR LE MILE Magazine

VON KÖCK
GLASHÜTTE ORIGINAL SIXTIES PANORAMA DATUM
OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL
BREGUET TRADITION 7097BR

 

Felix and Nattaya, the creative forces behind VON KÖCK, personally select each gemstone, ensuring only the highest quality. Their hands-on approach guarantees that every piece is curated, designed, and sold with exceptional care. This bespoke service ensures that every bride and groom's dream jewelry is brought to life, adhering to the company's motto: "The Essence of Perfection."

With unparalleled access to exclusive, top-tier gemstones, VON KÖCK turns your imagination into reality. Decades of industry connections allow them to source the rarest stones, creating pieces as unique as your love story. From the moment you say "yes" to the day you say "I do," VON KÖCK offers expert advice on everything from the perfect engagement ring to stunning wedding accessories.

For him, VON KÖCK offers iconic timepieces like the OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch, Glashütte Original's Sixties Panorama Date, and BREGUET's Tradition Automatique Seconde Rétrograde. These watches blend heritage and innovation, making them perfect for the groom's attire.

For her, the collection is magical. The "Petit Sparkle" earrings, in white or yellow gold with diamonds, offer a playful yet elegant touch. The "Solitaire Heart" statement earrings are designed to make hearts race, while the "Gran Curve" earrings, featuring over 100 uniquely cut diamonds, create a mesmerizing form as distinctive as your wedding day.

Completing the bridal range are bracelets and necklaces like the "Pear Halo" necklace with its hand-crafted details and a shimmering teardrop diamond. Each piece enhances the natural beauty of the wearer, transforming these jewelry items into treasured heirlooms.

 
 
VON KÖCK GRAN CURVE LE MILE Magazine Wedding Jewellery

VON KÖCK
GRAN CURVE

VON KÖCK SOLITÄR HEART LE MILE Magazine Wedding Jewellery

VON KÖCK
SOLITÄR HEART

VON KÖCK DIAMOND TENDER BIANCO LE MILE Magazine Wedding Jewellery

VON KÖCK
DIAMOND TENDER BIANCO

 
 

VON KÖCK ensures each certified gemstone is beautiful and ethically sourced. Their wedding collection creates lasting memories with exquisite designs and unparalleled service.

 
 

discover www.vonkoeck.com
follow @vonkoeck

Von Köck *Eco-Chic Heritage Diamond

Von Köck *Eco-Chic Heritage Diamond

.new collection
Von Köck Revolutionizes Glamour
Europe's First Eco-Chic Heritage Diamond Collection

 

written Sarah Arendts

 

Luxury and opulence often eclipse ethical considerations in the dazzling world of high-end jewelry. However, Austria's premier jeweler Von Köck is breaking the mold.

 

Charting an uncharted course, they unveil Europe's first heritage/recycled diamond jewelry collection. This is the dawn of a pioneering movement towards sustainable luxury.

 
 
VON KÖCK Diamond Jewelry Collection LE MILE Magazine

Von Köck
Europe's First Heritage Diamond Jewelry Collection

 
 

The Sahara Collection, unveiled in 2023, marks a paradigm shift in how we perceive and appreciate luxury jewelry. Von Köck, nestled in the heart of Vienna on the prestigious Graben, has long been synonymous with unparalleled craftsmanship and exquisite designs. However, with this collection, they are adding another feather to their cap - that of environmental stewardship.

This groundbreaking collection is a testament to the brand's commitment to safeguarding the earth's finite resources. In a bold move, Von Köck has eschewed the use of newly mined diamonds. Instead, the collection boasts diamonds sourced from old stocks, inheritances, auctions, and second-hand goods. Each gemstone is carefully selected from existing pieces, ensuring that no new environmental footprint is created in their quest for beauty.

These diamonds undergo a meticulous process of reworking, cutting, and re-certification, aligning with the latest standards in Heritage/Recycled Diamond Jewelry. This process not only breathes new life into the stones but also ensures that each piece meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship that Von Köck is renowned for.

Felix von Köck, the visionary at the helm of this second-generation family business, encapsulates the essence of this venture:

"The combination of tradition and innovation, the creation of an atmosphere full of imagination and values ​​in which our work can thrive and grow into new dimensions - that is the world of VON KÖCK."

Von Köck's commitment to excellence is not confined to their jewelry creations. The brand is equally passionate about finding the best quality materials for their high-quality watch brands from Germany and Switzerland. This ethos of pursuing perfection while honoring cultural heritage and responding to consumer demands has been the cornerstone of their success.

 
 
VON KÖCK Diamond Jewelry Collection LE MILE Magazine ring

Von Köck continues to innovate, with exciting new additions to the Sahara Collection on the horizon. Their journey is a shining example of how luxury and responsibility can coexist, creating a new standard in the world of fine jewelry.

 
 
 
 
 

Von Köck’s initiative is a timely reminder that luxury need not come at the cost of the environment. It is a clarion call to the industry and consumers alike, to redefine luxury in terms of not just aesthetic and quality but also its impact on our planet.

 
 

discover www.vonkoeck.com
follow @vonkoeck

Céramique Lab *Smallable

Céramique Lab *Smallable

*New Collection
SMALLABLE Céramique Lab
Celebrating 15 Years with the Art of Living

 

written Amanda Mortenson

 

Fifteen years is a commendable feat for any brand in the ever-evolving world of fashion and design. For Smallable, the renowned Family Concept Store, this milestone is a testament to their unwavering commitment to unique design, quality, and craftsmanship.

 

To mark their 15th anniversary, the brand has taken a deep dive into the world of ceramics with the launch of their exclusive Céramique Lab collection.

 
 
Smallable Céramique Lab Collection ©Adel Slimane butter plate

SMALLABLE
Léa Baldassari Beurrier en grès | Ochre

designed by Léa Baldassari x Smallable

 
Smallable Céramique Lab Collection ©Adel Slimane

SMALLABLE
Céramique Lab Collection
all images seen + courtesy Adel Slimane

 
 

A Fresh Ode to Quality Time and Togetherness

 

Designed to capture the essence of moments spent with loved ones, the Céramique Lab collection is a tribute to the timeless beauty of ceramics. Rooted in a love for substance, technique, and originality, the collection is an embodiment of Smallable's commitment to promoting artisans who bring soul into their creations.

In an age where fast consumerism reigns supreme, Smallable’s initiative is an ode to “Slow Life”. It's a celebration of artisanship that makes each piece in the collection unique. It's a conscious effort to shift the spotlight from quantity to quality.

 
 
Smallable Céramique Lab Collection ©Adel Slimane

SMALLABLE
Mariela Ceramica Bougeoir en céramique
different sizes and colors

designed by Mariela Ceramica x Smallable

 
 
Smallable Céramique Lab Collection ©Adel Slimane coffee cups Léa Baldassari Mug en grès | Cream

SMALLABLE
Léa Baldassari Mug en grès | Cream

designed by Léa Baldassari x Smallable

 
 

While the collection brings together the exceptional talent of seven ceramists, let's delve deeper into the stories of three standout contributors:

 

Mariela Ceramica
Belgian-based artist, Mariela Torres crafts with a deep reverence for individuality and nature. Her creations, marked by vivid colors and natural shapes, reflect her Chilean and Belgian roots. More than just ceramic pieces, they are stories of her positive approach to design and her dual heritage.

Léa Baldassari
From the heart of Paris in the 11th arrondissement, Léa brings an instinctive approach to her work. Her stoneware pieces are raw, organic, and poetic. They bear testimony to her love for visibly handmade creations, each piece resonating with its unique character.

Beldy
Founded by Lucile Salamone and Hakim Ghachou in 2015, Beldy transcends mere ceramics. Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean culture, their diverse portfolio boasts handmade items made from materials ranging from ceramic to brass. Every creation tells a story, and every story is imbued with human emotions, imperfections, and poetic charm.

 
 

The other notable contributors to Céramique Lab include Cole & Cinder, Casa Cecu, Franca Atelier, and Rosi Mistou.

 

In the words of its founder, Cécile Roederer, Smallable was born out of a need. A need to provide parents with a one-stop destination for high-quality children's fashion and home furnishings. Over the years, the brand has grown, expanded its offerings, and cemented its position as a global leader. From baby care to women's fashion, home decor to teen fashion, Smallable offers a curated selection from over 750 global brands, each echoing the brand's commitment to quality, design, and responsible production.

At the core of Smallable's philosophy is an unyielding commitment to supporting designers who champion ethical manufacturing, environmentally-friendly processes, and limited local production. In doing so, Smallable has not only promoted quality over quantity but has also fostered a community of conscious consumers.

As Smallable embarks on its next chapter, the launch of the Céramique Lab collection is a fitting tribute to its roots, values, and vision. It's a celebration of the brand's commitment to quality, artisanship, and timeless design. And for those of us who appreciate the finer things in life, it's a reminder that beauty, craftsmanship, and authenticity are always in vogue.

 
 
Smallable Céramique Lab Collection ©Adel Slimane

SMALLABLE
Franca Atelier Napkin Rings
Set of 4 | Brown Marble

designed by Franca Atelier x Smallable

 
 

Interview *Ani Bagdasaryan / AYANI

Interview *Ani Bagdasaryan / AYANI

*Interview
AYANI
- Crafting Sustainable Wardrobes for the Modern Woman

 

written + interview Sarah Arendts

 

Founded in the bustling metropolis of Berlin in 2018, AYANI has quickly emerged as the ultimate fashion destination for the modern woman. Under the creative direction of its founder, Ani Bagdasaryan, AYANI strives to provide an effortless "5-minute work wear fix" that embodies style, comfort, and responsibility, allowing women to focus more on the things that truly matter to them.

 
 

AYANI's unique brand ethos is centered around crafting dresses that encapsulate the essence of a woman's daily routine – versatile, functional, and tastefully stylish. Characterized by flattering shapes, vibrant hues, generous pockets, and perfect lengths, the brand offers the ideal sartorial solution for women who value both aesthetics and convenience.

The brand proudly upholds the ethos of sustainable fashion, ensuring their pieces not only look and feel good but also respect the planet.

From the use of eco-friendly fabrics to supporting ethical production methods, AYANI is a testament to the seamless marriage of fashion and sustainability.

With a strong focus on community and a commitment to making a difference, AYANI goes beyond being just a clothing line. It's a community of driven women, a contributor to social causes, and a passionate advocate for sustainable living and slow fashion.

 
 

Sarah Arendts
What inspired you to start AYANI and how has your Armenian heritage influenced your design and business approach?

Ani Bagdasaryan
The inspiration behind AYANI is rooted in the realization that the women's workwear market is shockingly underserved and lacking in options that truly cater to the needs of modern working women. Women invest at least 50% of their time in the workplace, and yet an absolute majority of clothing options available in the market are geared towards casual wear, falling short when it comes to meeting the demands of professional work settings. Having personally experienced this scarcity of suitable choices, I felt compelled to create a clothing brand that addresses this gap.

Speaking about my background, the Armenian culture has profoundly shaped the heart and soul of AYANI. Firstly, my Armenian heritage has filled me with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship which serves as the cornerstone of my design ethos. Secondly, growing up in an Armenian family, I was instilled with the belief that true happiness lies in helping others, and this principle profoundly influenced the way I approach my work. In embracing the spirit of community and genuine care for our partners and clients, I foster a compassionate and empathetic approach that drives us to create a brand that deeply resonates with our customers' aspirations and empowers women in their daily lives. The strong community values present in Armenian culture have led me to place a paramount emphasis on our customers' needs, valuing customer wishes over profit.

 

How does AYANI address the needs of the modern woman through its unique "5-minute workwear fix" concept?

Our "5-minute workwear fix" concept encapsulates my dedication to empowering the modern woman with versatile and time-efficient fashion choices. We recognize the dynamic lifestyles that many women lead today, often balancing multiple roles. With this in mind, we endeavor to reflect a harmonious fusion of elegance and practicality in our designs, offering affordable luxury that transcend traditional workwear, enabling women to effortlessly transition from client meetings to weekend trips and celebratory occasions.
Our aim is to provide the modern working woman with a well-rounded wardrobe that meets her diverse needs, offering functional and stylish options that resonate with her sense of style and practicality.


Can you share your thoughts on why AYANI focuses exclusively on dresses and how it contributes to a woman's confidence and comfort?

AYANI's exclusive focus on dresses is a conscious decision rooted in my belief that dresses are inherently versatile garments. With dresses, there's no need to spend time matching tops to bottoms, allowing women to effortlessly slip into a complete outfit. Also, when thoughtfully designed, dresses offer unparalleled freedom of movement and utmost comfort, making them, in my opinion, far more comfortable than any other piece of clothing. By concentrating on this stylistic staple, we can refine our expertise, ensuring that every design embodies the highest standards of comfort, elegance, and functionality.

I truly believe that dresses have the unique ability to evoke a sense of empowerment and ease. A well-designed dress can accentuate a woman's natural beauty and highlight her best features, giving her a sense of empowerment and self-assurance. This is clearly visible in our designs. Moreover, an elegant and flattering silhouette of a dress can enhance a woman's posture and body language, creating a poised and confident demeanor. There is no doubt that when a woman feels confident in her appearance, it strikingly radiates through her interactions and adds to her overall sense of confidence.

Could you tell us more about your choice of sustainable fabrics and the role they play in AYANI's mission towards eco-friendliness?

Our choice of sustainable fabrics is both a reflection of our commitment to eco-friendliness and a response to the prevailing disregard for the environment within the fashion industry. To achieve this, I carefully select a handful of eco-friendly materials for my collections. In particular, Viscose Ecovero holds a special place in our sustainable fabric choices. This innovative fiber is derived from sustainably managed wood sources, primarily from certified and controlled wood forests. The production process of Viscose Ecovero boasts an impressively low environmental impact, utilizing efficient resource management and closed-loop manufacturing, which significantly reduces water consumption and carbon emissions compared to traditional viscose production.

It is important to mention that our commitment to sustainability extends beyond fabric choices. From buttons to care labels, we diligently select sustainably made alternatives to conventional options. As a brand dedicated to continuous improvement, with each new collection, we strive to elevate the sustainable profile of our garments and minimize our garment's impact on the environment.

 

AYANI appears to be much more than a clothing brand, with strong emphasis on community and social causes. Could you expand on these aspects of your brand?

Beyond being a clothing brand, AYANI is an embodiment of my belief in the transformative power of fashion. In my opinion, the lack of options for women in the workwear market is not just a mere oversight but a larger representation of the unaddressed needs and aspirations of women in their professional lives. A prime example of how we strive to tackle this issue is through AYANIWomen talks. These are a series of enlightening discussions and free knowledge-sharing events organized by us in the past. Dedicated to nurturing various skills that enhance female confidence, our talks encompass diverse topics, ranging from financial literacy to developing strong presentation skills. The great success of these events has inspired us to continue organizing more such engagements in the future, growing the sense of community that lies at the core of AYANI's values.

Furthermore, AYANI actively engages in supporting social causes in Armenia in the fields of education, environmental conservation, and women's empowerment. We are proud to have supported several meaningful initiatives, including local environmental activists, who in 2019 worked tirelessly to stop the development of the Amulsar gold mine and to save the precious ecosystem surrounding it. In 2020 during the war we have actively donated to charities dedicated to helping displaced women and children affected by the war that Azerbaijan unleashed on the independent region of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) with predominantly Armenian population. Recently, we made a significant contribution to an NGO that worked towards providing a semblance of normality to Armenian children living in Artsakh, a region currently blockaded for over 300 days by the Azerbaijani government. I am deeply moved by the inhumane circumstances these children face, with limited access to food and basic necessities, unable to leave the region and for many to reunite with their relatives.
I strongly believe that every business (and person) can make a difference in the lives of others not only choosing with whom they work but also by contributing part of the profit to causes they support. I am humbled by the opportunity to contribute to these critical causes, and it remains an integral part of my brand philosophy to continue making a positive difference in the lives of those in need.

As a supporter of the slow fashion movement, what are your future plans to promote sustainability and a mindful approach to living through AYANI?

Above all, our foremost commitment remains focused on prioritizing the creation of timeless and enduring designs that transcend passing trends. We are resolute in crafting clothing that women genuinely desire to wear, infusing each piece with purpose and a problem-solving intention. As we continue to evolve, our intention is to maintain deliberately small collections, offering only a handful of styles each season, in a fervent bid to combat overproduction and thereby reduce our environmental impact.

This approach serves a dual purpose, as it not only aligns with our sustainability goals but also serves as a catalyst in educating our cherished customers about the merits of a thoughtfully curated wardrobe over an extensive one. By fostering a conscious consumer mindset through education, we endeavor to liberate our clientele from the allure of fast fashion and nurture a profound appreciation for long-lasting, high-quality garments. In doing so, we want to redefine the narrative of fashion consumption, inspiring a shift towards mindful choices and a deeper connection to the intrinsic value of enduring style.
Needless to say, transparency and responsibility will continue to guide our actions. We will continue to work directly and closely with factories having a safe work environment and where every person is receiving a fair wage. We will also amplify our efforts in raising awareness about sustainable fashion and the environmental impact of consumer choices. Through various initiatives, we seek to empower our customers with the knowledge to make informed decisions and embrace mindful living.

 
 

discover www.ayani.co
follow @ayaniclothing