Sven Marquardt is a man who spends his nights making or breaking the clubbing dreams of all those who line up to enter Berlin’s legendary nightclub Berghain. However, the bouncer has taken a night off from his powerful position at the Berghain door to make his debut as a fashion model, walking the runway for 44 Label Group.
It might sound like an unusual second job to accept the offer of, but 44 Label Group’s founder Max Kobosil is also a techno DJ who got to know Marquardt while playing gigs at the famed club. As you might expect from someone who loves the scene like Kobosil, his label blends the rave aesthetic with more luxurious ready-to-wear pieces that can be seen in his latest “Blame Society” Fall 2023 collection.
With Marquardt’s distinct face tattoos front and centre for the unveiling of the collection, the garments are utilitarian and feature bold patterns, textured fabrics and slogans that include “Backstage,” “Vinyl Only” and “Guest List”. No one has cracked the code to always get the nod of approval from Marquardt yet, but if you arrive at the front of the line wearing 44 Label Group, you’ll have a better chance than most.