Here at S K I R T we like good people, good clothes and great ideas and think it's, really good when each come together to form something we really, really like. We are big advocates for integrity in being an individual and have a real passion for good, new, innovative design. We think new label 'Borne by Elise Berger' is the perfect example of what we like.
Born and raised in North-west Germany, Borne designer Christine Elise Kolnberger-Aziz spent a lot of her childhood observing her Grandfather at work as a menswear tailor. Inspired, in 2002 she moved to Barcelona to study Fashion Design during which she completed placements in Berlin, before in 2006 moving to London to complete internships at both Vivienne Westwood and Preen. Spring/Summer 2011, presents her debut collection entitled; 'Little Seres'. Christine is married, has a three year old son with her second child due this August. Working on the label (Borne) she splits her time between Barcelona and London. London is the hub for press and sales, with the collections designed and produced in Barcelona. Get better acquainted here.
Borne by Elise Berger
S K I R T say...an unrivalled attention to detail which begs a second glance make 'Borne' clothing a truly individual wear.
Christine says...the Borne aesthetic balances masculine shapes and elements of menswear tailoring with feminine touches. It is the balance between the two sides of Borne, which will continue to evolve, though it will be an organic process rather than an intentional one. Initially I started with a more structured feel and the injection of a softer, more feminine side came later on.
The Borne woman is natural, happy and effortlessly stylish, the clothing is best worn with understated confidence.
Launched this spring, Borne's debut collection entitled 'Little Seres' combines slouchy silhouettes, jersey drapes in shades of beige, champagne, marl grey, coral and navy.
My favourite piece... from 'Little Seres' is the Graf top, it's so simple but the silhouette is really unique. I wear it all the time, when worn different ways it goes with absolutely everything. It's the perfect Borne piece.
I feel most confident wearing...my own designs, I always have myself in mind when I design and only create pieces in which I would feel comfortable in as comfort breeds confidence.
During Spring, I can't live without...a jersey day dress, that can also turn into a jersey evening dress - perfect for when the weather is continually changing.
My three 'fail-safe' rules to mastering and displaying individual style are...
- listen to your intuition and don't doubt your own sense of style
- remember that it doesn't matter what others think, just as long as you love it
- have a strong idea about what you want to achieve with your look.
In my opinion cool women wear...whatever they like without thinking about whether or not it's 'on trend' or not.
Coming from Germany and having lived and studied between Barcelona and London...I find Spanish women dress in a more effortless and classic style, which is more my taste, but I love the London women who is more fun, full of colour and always exciting.
Family is an important inspiration to Christine and the development of the Borne label.
C: It was my Grandfather (a menswear tailor) that I observed cutting and sewing as a little child and loved the whole atmosphere in his little workshop. Now that my son is three, he influences me a lot. (From my Grandfather) I did learn his patience and passion for what he did, that has been a more important lesson than any other advice he could have given me.
S: There is a unique subtlety to menswear and in particular how men display their individual style. Is there a classic menswear design detail, tradition or attitude you think the modern woman could learn from?
C: I think women can learn to appreciate the details of design more the way that men do and be more interested in the intricacies of the garment which make it unique and as a consequence their style more individual.
S: Can you share your 'top-tip' or any industry secrets of how best to care for your clothing; ensuring a greater longevity of your wardrobe?
C: This isn't really an insider tip, but because we use a lot of delicate fabrics I have learnt to love handwashing. It is time consuming but your clothes will thank you for it!
Borne by Elise Berger S/S11 collection 'Little Seres' is available here.
August 2011 sees the arrival of the A/W11 collection 'First Flight'.