The Austrian designer Lena Hoschek re-introduced the 1950s style with a sexy makeover showcasing her ready-to-wear Spring/Summer 2011 collection at Mercedes-Benz Berlin Fashion Week on July 7, 2010.
Don't let the young designer's age (late twenties) fool you as Lena is a leader instead of a follower. She does not follow trends or the general conception of cool. Her collections take you back in time. They reflect her childhood fascination for the female ideal of the 40s and 50s, craftsmanship, high-end tailoring, traditional materials and patterns but also rock n' roll and punk music, tattoos, bad guys and fast cars.
Her new collection consists of gingham frocks, floral prints, poofy knee length skirts paired with flirty tops, thigh high latex stockings, spiked bras and belts. Only she knows how to make a high waist bikini look sexy. Some of the other highlights include Elvis's face on a high-waist bikini and pin-up prints on prom dresses.
She dressed her models in Katy Perry inspired looks - shoulder length black wigs with blunt fringe in the 1950s style, scarlet lipstick and black eyeliner. Katy Perry wears Lena's designs.
The Graz born designer worked with Vivienne Westwood at her London studio between 2003-2004. In 2005 she worked through her personal studio in Gra. She launched her own label in 2006 at the age of 24.
