All bodies are different, such a typical sentence with so much meaning behind it. There can be a variety of shapes, sizes, and forms, but there are two things that every human has in common: their connection to nature and their soul. That is precisely what fashion designer Maximilian Gedra can communicate through his pieces. Based in Berlin, he nourishes himself from the city’s artistic and cultural diversity to create his brand, not only achieving great success in its short lifespan but also having an important role in the activism surrounding gender norms and human rights. Between the preparations for the fashion weeks and other projects, we took a few minutes to talk with this young designer about him and his brand, two entities with the same name: Maximilian Gedra.
Well, before we get started, how was your summer? We’ve seen you have been working in different events, such as the Berlin Fashion Week in August and the art exhibition Fashion Positions in September.
This summer has been one of the most intense but also exciting and rewarding experiences of my life. I debuted two new collections at Berlin Fashion Week and unveiled an art installation at Fashion Positions. Sharing my creations with an audience is an experience that thrills me beyond words.
Your brand was created not long ago, in 2023, to be more precise. How does it feel to be part of two important events in your own country? How intense was the process to achieve this in such a short time?
Being a part of the biggest fashion and art events in my country means everything to me, especially since debuting my label at Berlin Fashion Week has always been a dream. I've always aimed high, working relentlessly until I achieved that goal. I came to Berlin with a clear purpose—to build my brand and make my dreams come true. My label is not just a job; it’s my life. I worked tirelessly, day and night, until I reached what I had envisioned. It was definitely extremely challenging, but the reward made it all worth it.
Once you decide to start a brand, when does the idea actually turn into a real process? What is the inflection point that makes you want to transform an idea into reality?
For me, the turning point comes when my instinct, heart, and gut tell me it's time to bring an idea to life. Once I feel that creative urge, I commit fully. It doesn't matter how much time I have or how challenging the process might be—I trust that if I follow that feeling, I'll find a way to achieve and carry out my vision. That inner drive is what pushes me to transform an idea into reality.
Is Maximilian Gedra a one-man work, or is there someone else that has worked along with you since the beginning?
I built the label entirely on my own, managing every aspect of the process—from designing the logo and website to crafting the garments and developing all the designs. I also handled social media, project management, and everything else that comes with building a brand. I believe that to launch something meaningful, you must invest everything you have, step out of your comfort zone, and turn your vision into reality. Even while working alone, you can achieve great things. When I created my debut collection for Berlin Fashion Week, I was fortunate to have the support of my talented team throughout the entire development process. My family has been a constant source of encouragement, providing me with strength and motivation since day one. Having a dedicated team and a supportive family is incredibly important and helpful for achieving success.
You said in a recent interview that you worked for one year without a break for your debut in Berlin Fashion Week with your collection Stalactite, and even though you enjoyed every part of the process, it was hard. Were there some moments or events that made you think about quitting?
Never. Quitting has never crossed my mind, as my art and fashion are my life. Stopping would mean losing a part of myself. When I work on my collections, I embrace the entire journey—pressure, stress, and all. I always envision the final collection and how the show will unfold, which drives me to push beyond my limits. Each challenge motivates me to keep going, knowing that the end result will be worth every effort.
You have also been part of the August edition presenting Goliath SS25. Did you have the same experience for both? Or was it different in terms of your personal preparation, feelings, team…
Every show and collection has its own unique energy, shaped by the specific settings and atmospheres we create. While each experience is different, the excitement of presenting my work to a large audience for the first time is truly unforgettable and reinforces my passion for fashion. I aim to learn something from each show as I grow in my career. Each experience provides valuable insights that help me improve. For my first show, I embraced the unknown, which fuelled my determination and made the experience even more impactful. By my second show, I had a clearer understanding of what to expect, allowing me to navigate the process more smoothly. However, the overall atmosphere and presentation were still entirely different, giving me a fresh experience that I truly appreciate.
I see that both of your last collections are very connected to nature, the first one representing the natural process of crystallisation and the second inspired by insects. Is it nature where Maximilian Gedra takes the most inspiration from?
Nature definitely serves as a significant source of inspiration for me, but my creative influences extend well beyond that. I find motivation in various environments, cultures, and the individuals I meet, especially in a city like Berlin. The art, culture, and vibrant community here significantly shape my work. Moreover, topics such as human rights, gender roles, and equality extremely inspire me to convey meaningful messages through my fashion. The future also inspires me, igniting my imagination and encouraging me to explore new ideas and possibilities. I’m particularly fascinated by the structures and forms found in both the natural world and human-made spaces, as they inform my designs in meaningful ways. I believe that some of the best concepts arise from experiences outside of fashion. Whether it’s a conversation, a piece of art, or a fleeting moment in daily life, I often discover that these elements spark my creativity in unexpected ways and foster deeper connections in my work.
Your connection with nature is not only in your way of seeing life but also in your way of working. In the sustainability section of your web, it says that you use vegan materials, local production, designs are made by hand, and even the packaging is recyclable. It is challenging to keep up with these values nowadays?
I truly enjoy the process of exploring sustainable options for materials, packaging, and production methods. For me, thinking about sustainability feels natural; it’s not just a trend but a vital part of our future. I feel more motivated than pressured in this work, as it’s essential to rethink how we create and consume. Every step toward sustainability helps us take better care of our planet.
Are you searching for new ways of continuing to promote this type of values? Or new forms of working hand in hand with nature?
Absolutely! I’m always on the lookout for new alternatives and innovative ways to showcase our commitment to sustainability. For instance, we created showpieces from recycled materials, which we presented at Berlin Fashion Week. This not only highlights our dedication to eco-friendly practices but also demonstrates that sustainability can be an integral part of our creative expression.
What values define the man behind the brand? Is Maximilian Gedra as resilient and conscious as his brand?
The values that define me as a designer are deeply rooted in authenticity, inclusivity, and sustainability. I believe that fashion should empower individuals and reflect the diverse experiences and identities of everyone. This commitment to inclusivity is at the core of my brand, as I want people to feel seen and represented in my work. Resilience is another key value for me. The journey of building this brand has had its challenges, but I've learnt to embrace those obstacles as opportunities for growth. I believe that facing difficulties head-on is essential to creating something meaningful.
Being conscious of my impact on the world is also crucial. I strive to make choices that align with my values, from the materials I use to the processes I follow. My brand is a reflection of my commitment to creating fashion that is not only beautiful but also responsible and forward-thinking. Ultimately, I want my label to inspire others to think more deeply about their own values and choices in fashion and life.
Being conscious of my impact on the world is also crucial. I strive to make choices that align with my values, from the materials I use to the processes I follow. My brand is a reflection of my commitment to creating fashion that is not only beautiful but also responsible and forward-thinking. Ultimately, I want my label to inspire others to think more deeply about their own values and choices in fashion and life.
Do you think the desire of your brand to break away from the body in bold shapes and different silhouettes comes from also the desire to challenge gender norms?
Definitely. I believe fashion should be a playground for self-expression, allowing individuals to explore and define their own identities beyond what society expects. By creating pieces with strong shapes and diverse silhouettes, I want to encourage people to step outside conventional boundaries. It’s about giving everyone the freedom to wear what makes them feel powerful and authentic, no matter their gender.
In a world where fashion often reinforces stereotypes, I aim for my brand to offer an alternative—a space where people can celebrate their uniqueness and break free from the limitations that traditional gender norms impose. Each design is a statement, inviting wearers to embrace their individuality and express themselves on their own terms.
In a world where fashion often reinforces stereotypes, I aim for my brand to offer an alternative—a space where people can celebrate their uniqueness and break free from the limitations that traditional gender norms impose. Each design is a statement, inviting wearers to embrace their individuality and express themselves on their own terms.
What are your plans for the future? Is Maximilian Gedra ready to show Berlin’s essence in a more international way?
Our next step is to open a new showroom and studio, followed by presenting our latest collection at Berlin Fashion Week in January 2025. We’re already working with international clients and have exciting plans lined up for 2025. As we continue to grow, we’re eager to showcase Berlin’s essence on a global stage while staying true to our roots.
Is there a name you are looking forward to working with? What does someone need to have to catch your eye?
Pop culture has inspired me profoundly since childhood. I’d love the chance to collaborate with some incredible pop icons, as well as talented creatives from diverse backgrounds. What truly excites me is a strong project vision. If a concept resonates with me and aligns with my values, I’m always excited to collaborate.
