Better later than never… here comes some of my impressions from SEEK Berlin, a fashion fair which happens next to Berlin Fashion Week.

Different from massive Premium (of which I will soon post about), SEEK is easier to walk around because it’s much smaller and located in Arena, a big square warehouse, what makes it even easier to just locate yourself and, of course, the brands.

Though there were a few selected womenswear labels, SEEK is mainly focuses on men’s fashion and upper streetwear, and this is exactly why I couldn’t stop noticing how many colorful collections there were, starting with the French shoes label Rivieras.

Rivieras is specialized in loafers – but not just any kind – the specific ones that were worn in Costa Blanca back in the ’50s, celebrating this relaxed lifestyle from the Spanish Mediterranean coast.

With rich textures and a wide range of colors, the Rivieras were “redesigned to keep its distinctive retro look, it has been nevertheless improved to fit all modern needs”. I’m not sure if I can see many Berliners wearing these loafers, but I find it very interesting how this motto and bon vivant style works together with such bright colors – but I guess this is more for the daring ones. You can find their pieces in a few Berlin retailers here.

Going a little bit further east, Drink Beer Save Water is a South Korean label with innovative prints and multifunctional pieces made with high quality fabrics imported from Japan. The brand is only five years old but it’s currently sold at very well known retailers like Colette Paris and the Dover Street Market in London (I guess they were looking for a cool spot in Berlin too?!).

According to Haseok, who was representing the label at SEEK, “Instead of limiting clothes to just a way of looking, we use them to start up a conversation. That is where DBSW puts the value. Laughter and a good chat is what we are after, and we believe our designs can help just that.” Indeed, it’s worked. They also made a kick ass collaboration with Daft Punk, so respect!

Last but not least, young label Jimmy Lion finishes the look with high quality socks produced in Portugal but designed in New York and owned by two long-time friends, Spanish entrepreneurs, Felipe Cortina and Alvaro Gomis.

Felipe guarantees that each print is exclusive, plus the shape of the socks is ultra comfortable once the knitting is made in machines with 200 needles and the closing process is made by hand and free of seams.

Well, as the proverb says “God lives in the detail” – just a tip boys!