As Ellen Hodakova Larsson unveils her Autumn/Winter 2025 collection at Paris Fashion Week, she emphasizes sustainability and innovation in a rapidly changing industry.
Inside the opulent Palais de la Mutualité in Paris, preparations are underway for a high-profile fashion show that has drawn considerable attention from industry insiders and influencers alike. As the hours dwindle before the event, models are being styled with dramatic makeup and hair, while a crew of around 200 rushes to finalize the details, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a film shoot.
At the helm of this intricate production is Ellen Hodakova Larsson, a 33-year-old designer whose brand, Hodakova, has gained international acclaim since its inception in 2021. Known for her innovative designs that repurpose existing materials into high-fashion pieces, Hodakova is poised to present her Autumn/Winter 2025 collection during Paris Fashion Week. In an interview with Dagens Nyheter, she expressed enthusiasm about being included in the official schedule among prestigious names such as Saint Laurent and Chanel.
Assisting Hodakova backstage is Lotta Volkova, a renowned stylist with a background in high-profile brands like Miu Miu and Balenciaga. Volkova is seen managing the production with precision, ensuring that everything adheres to a strict timeline. Amidst the lively preparation, a large black poodle adorned with a pink pearl necklace adds an element of charm to the scene.
The collection itself features 37 unique looks, showcasing garments crafted from discarded materials. Revolutionary designs incorporate snare drums and violins into wearable art, like a mini skirt and a hat, respectively. Models featured in Hodakova’s show include Swedish model Vilda Krog, who described her outfit made from guitar strings as “much easier to walk in” compared to previous designs.
Hodakova’s rise in the fashion world has been nothing short of remarkable, propelled by her playful yet resourceful approach to design. Her brand has become synonymous with a sustainable fashion ethos, utilizing deadstock, leftover inventory, and upcycled materials to create new pieces. Among her notable creations are signature bags made from repurposed leather belts, which sell for approximately 25,000 kronor on her online shop.
In recognition of her efforts, Hodakova was awarded the prestigious LVMH fashion prize last fall, making her the first Swedish designer to receive the accolade. This honor has resulted in significant visibility for her work, further bolstered by endorsements from celebrities such as Cate Blanchett, who notably wore a top made from 102 silver spoons, sourced from thrift shops.
Hodakova cites her inspiration as stemming from a childhood spent on a horse farm in Strängnäs, where she developed an early appreciation for aesthetics and craftsmanship, influenced by her family’s resourceful approach to clothing and design. She graduated from the Textile University in Borås and has continued to blend her upbringing with her professional pursuits. However, she admits that the rapid growth of her brand has come with challenges, including the need for additional staff to help manage the burgeoning workload.
Following the show, she reflected on the pressure of presenting her collections and her desire to create an enduring legacy in fashion. “If you’re not right in the center, you won’t be able to change anything,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to developing a sustainable and purpose-driven clothing line.
This past season has led to an evolution in consumer behavior as economic shifts impact spending patterns. The fashion industry, notorious for its environmental footprints, has faced scrutiny for its sustainability practices, a challenge that Hodakova openly addresses. She expresses a vision for the future of fashion that prioritizes human connection and responsible practices over profit.
As her collections continue to garner attention, Ellen Hodakova Larsson remains dedicated to her craft and the principles of sustainability that she believes should be at the heart of fashion. With a strong foundation in creativity and a passion for creating change, her journey serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of the fashion world.
Source: Noah Wire Services
