On Day 3 of Berlin Fashion Week, Ukrainian streetwear label PLNGNS (Palingenesy) showcased its latest collection, IDENTITY.
Known for sustainability and avant-garde aesthetics, PLNGS merged upcycling and industrial influences into a bold statement.
Creative director Mitya Hontarenko and head designer Ira Ambrosova aim to leave a lasting mark.
“We create products, designs, and concepts that remain memorable while pioneering new ideas”.
Mitya Hontarenko & Ira Ambrosova.
This philosophy drives their transformation of waste into high-fashion pieces.
The Art of Upcycling: Material & Design
Recycled materials have long been a staple for PLNGNS, and IDENTITY took this commitment to new heights.
Old sneakers were deconstructed and transformed into durable, modern textiles, with their original textures preserved to highlight the transformation process. A color palette of black, gray, and white maintained the focus on structure and form, reinforcing the industrial aesthetic of the collection.
One of the standout innovations was a handcrafted print technique, where surface textures from repurposed materials were manually transferred onto garments. This created raw, organic patterns, making each piece a unique testament to the brand’s upcycling expertise.
An Industrial-Chic Show Experience
The show took place at Werkstatt für Alles, a venue mirroring the PLNGNS studio.
The setting offered a glimpse into the creative process, highlighting the craftsmanship behind each piece. A custom soundtrack by Kostantyn Loban and Alex Savage added to the immersive experience.
The styling for the show was curated by Gianni Vas, who also designed exclusive accessories to complete the looks.
Undoubtedly, the diverse casting reflected PLNGNS’ inclusive ethos, reinforcing the label’s message of authenticity and individuality.
Berlin: The Perfect Stage for PLNGNS
For Ira Ambrosova, Berlin Fashion Week is more than just an international platform—it is a creative home for PLNGNS.
“Berlin understands and supports our vision, offering a space where innovation and sustainability can thrive”.
Ira Ambrosova.
According to the head designer, the city’s dynamic and forward-thinking fashion landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the label’s experimental approach.
A New Standard for Sustainable High Fashion
IDENTITY cemented PLNGNS as a leader in sustainable fashion.
The label proved that upcycled materials can become luxury pieces without sacrificing aesthetics. Mitya Hontarenko bridges the gap between wearable art and commercial appeal, setting a new standard.
The collection won the “Berlin Contemporary” competition, supported by the Senate Department for Economics, Energy, and Public Enterprises in collaboration with the Fashion Council Germany. This recognition underscores PLNGNS’ rising influence in global fashion.
With IDENTITY, PLNGNS reaffirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and cutting-edge design. The brand proves that style and sustainability are not just compatible—they are the future.
Photography by James Cochrane for Berlin Fashion Week 2025.
Check out other highlights from Berlin Fashion Week 2025 here.
Berlin Fashion Week Event by KEYI Magazine on February 3rd at OXI!
