Danny Reinke’s AW25 Collection “90 Sec to Midnight” was undoubtedly a captivating one.
Presented at Berlin Fashion Week 2025, the collection explored our collective anxiety, from nuclear threats to climate collapse, it speaks to a world on edge. It reminded us that resistance is more vital than ever.
The collection was inspired by the Doomsday Clock– a symbol that represents the estimated likelihood of a human-made global catastrophe, and the eerie moral tales of Struwwelpeter– an 1845 German children’s book written and illustrated by Heinrich Hoffmann. In light of his inspirations, Danny Reinke creates a narrative that is both emotional and political, eerie and satirical. Each look tells a story. It’s bold, dark, and strangely romantic.
Read more about the collection here
The brand uses a Prêt-à-Couture method—blending couture craftsmanship with ready-to-wear practicality. Crafted in Berlin with recycled materials, the collection reflects Reinke’s deep commitment to sustainability and meaningful storytelling.
In this interview, Reinke shares the message behind the collection, the memories that shaped his values, and why producing on demand might be the future of fashion.
What’s the main message/theme of this collection?
The collection reflects the urgency of our times, emphasizing that there has never been a more critical moment to take action and show resistance. Inspired by the Doomsday Clock, a powerful symbol of humanity’s proximity to self-destruction due to nuclear threats and climate change, we’ve named our collection 90 Seconds to Midnight. This name serves as a poignant reminder that the clock now stands at its closest point ever, underscoring the pressing need for change and the importance of standing against the status quo.
What inspired this collection and how do you hope it resonates with the audience?
The collection draws inspiration from Heinrich Hoffmann’s Struwwelpeter and the stories it tells. Once debated as either an educational classic or a horror-filled children’s book, we’ve reimagined Struwwelpeter for today’s world. In a time when rebellion and resistance feel more necessary than ever, this collection captures the spirit of defiance and translates it into a modern context.
How does handcrafting your garments in Berlin add to the uniqueness of your designs?
Danny Reinke represents craftsmanship and exceptional quality. We uphold the highest standards in production and strive to keep supply chains as short as possible, as sustainable practices are a core value for us. Additionally, the pieces showcased on the runway carry a couture aspect that simply cannot be industrially manufactured.
What’s the standout sustainable feature of this collection?
A large portion of the fabrics we use are recycled. One of our dresses, for example, was previously another fashion piece. We completely deconstructed it and reassembled it with new components. Additionally, we incorporate crystals and stones that are second-hand. This is one of the most sustainable collections we have ever created.
Why is producing on demand so important to your brand’s sustainability goals?
We aim to avoid producing unnecessary surplus. If it does happen, we make an effort to recycle it. Why is this so important? Well, because we can do it—there’s nothing stopping us. We also believe that many others could do the same.
How did growing up in a fishing village influence your commitment to sustainable fashion?
My father fishes sustainably and even handcrafts his own nets for the traps. He has always paid close attention to when certain things can and should be fished. From a young age, I was taught the importance of being mindful of nature, as it is the foundation of our lives.
What’s next for Danny Reinke?
First, we’ll take a few days to breathe and process everything. After that, we’ll start preparing for the summer collection.
With “90 Sec to Midnight,” Danny Reinke proves that fashion can be a form of protest, crafted with care, rooted in meaning, and impossible to ignore, and the future is bright for the designer. Stay tuned for KEYI Magazine’s coverage of the brand’s upcoming Spring/Summer collection at Berlin FW.
Paulina Gonzalez for KEYI Magazine
more fashion features here.
Our next event : Säule, Berghain – 24.04.2025 -> more info here
