Designer Thomas Hanisch made a notable return to the runway last week during Berlin Fashion Week with the unveiling of his latest collection, titled “Exos.” After a decade-long hiatus, Hanisch draws inspiration from the intricate beauty of nature and the animal kingdom, focusing on their protective mechanisms, such as horns, feathers, shells, and organic textures.
This exploration is particularly resonant for Hanisch as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, where concepts of protection serve as an everyday consideration. All photos by Shin Jeong Hoon.

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All photos by Shin Jeong Hoon @sh1nfoto
First Assist: Marta Holden @acedi4Photo Assist: Aapthi @aapthigollapudi
Nails by @krisztiannWig by @deeon_is / @matildakreuter / @mantokamarimakeupartist
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Makeup @labiosthetiqueparis @steffenzollmakeup @lea.schaksmeier @mantokamarimakeupartist @matildakreuter 

“Exos” redefines protection not solely as a retreat but as a proactive position.
The collection’s silhouettes, materials, and surfaces function as a visual armour that envelops and strengthens the wearer while simultaneously enhancing visibility. A foundation of recycled leather from secondhand coats and jackets anchors the collection, complemented by faux fur that introduces striking tactile contrasts.
Futuristic 3D-printed accessories reference shield-like forms, while recycled plastic successfully creates an illusion of feathers.

The opulent silhouettes in this collection pay homage to historical sartorial elements from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Volume is manipulated, shifted, exaggerated, and distorted to provoke a purposeful “deformation” of the body, thereby challenging conventional ideals of beauty and proportion. Hanisch aims to illustrate that the concepts of protection and visual distinction can coexist, ultimately serving as a form of empowerment.

Founded in 2013 following his graduation from ESMOD Berlin, the Thomas Hanisch label swiftly garnered attention with two remarkable shows at Berlin Fashion Week. Renowned for its bold, made-to-measure couture and sculptural, avant-garde silhouettes, the brand has had the opportunity to dress international icons, including Lady Gaga. After years of behind-the-scenes work with private clients and a commitment to refining a unique creative language, this season marks Hanisch’s powerful comeback, a return to the runway characterised by a stronger vision, deeper emotion, and an invigorated ambition to redefine the possibilities within the realm of fashion. 

words by KALTBLUT