Fashion / Society

These runway moments prove Anton Thiemke is a face to take note of

By Sophie Axon

Photo: Ellen von Unwerth

When he is not busy making music as Space Idol, he is busy gracing the floor for everyone from (di)vision to 7 days active

In case you hadn’t noticed, the fashion industry here in Scandinavia is an ever-growing paradigm of creative cohesion. And when you take a look at Denmark’s very own Anton Thiemke, who seamlessly pivots between modelling, art and music, he is someone who embodies this very notion. When he’s not grabbing his paintbrush and channelling free expressionism and rudimentary brutalism through every brush stroke, he can be found crafting new melodies as musician Space Idol, or hanging out with the city’s style set, including girlfriend and model Nina Marker. And there’s something about his exuberant energy that makes him the most fascinating muse of all.

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And while many of us are fixated on the vibrant sway of his photo editorials, let’s not forget about his standout runway moments, many of which culminate the medley of his creative psyche. He wears the clothes, the clothes do not wear him. So, to celebrate the vivacious soul that lies within Thiemke, we’ve collated his most major catwalk moments to date. Like the tattoo on his chest suggests, he certainly is a Nordic “superstar”. Let us show you why…

1

(di)vision spring/summer 2023, Copenhagen Fashion Week

Set amidst lush green surroundings in a Refshaleoen forest decked out with dim hazy mushroom-shaped lamps and sculptural mushroom chairs, the location evoked a natural pulse, as did the actual military-inspired garments themselves. With unwavering swag and a cigarette fashioned between his lips, Thiemke appeared in all black, wearing cargo pants adorned with a singular silver chain, coupled with an upcycled leather jacket sporting white washed-out elements around the seams.

Every tiny detail helped to build this rather conceptual collection and (di)vision’s runway was certainly no ordinary affair. Inspired by Francis Ford Coppola’s 1979 psychological war epic Apocalypse Now, the sibling designer duo infused the film's difficult tropes into their creations. With a focus on military-inspired designs, they provided a space to reflect on today’s societal conflicts.

2

Lala Berlin fall/winter 2020, Copenhagen Fashion Week

This runway moment was all about contrasts. Against vast industrial surroundings, Leyla Piedayesh, designer behind the German label Lala Berlin, explored a spectrum of pink and a mix of polka dots, florals and leopard. These hyperfeminine design elements contrasted with androgynous silhouettes and classic tailoring, creating a collection of unexpected delights.

Thiemke appeared with gentle composure, dressed in a ‘70s style sleek ensemble in a deep navy hue. He could be mistaken for an extra at a New York dance hall in this white polka dots silk suit and unbuttoned shirt decked with a brightly coloured bird print. The silver necklaces set off his tattoos, just coyly peeking through. Behind the designs is a compelling story from Piedayesh herself. The juxtaposing details tell the story of her childhood in Iran and later life in Berlin, through symbols of strength and unity.

3

Juha Vehmaanperä autumn/winter 2019, Designers Nest Awards

When Thiemke walked the Designer Nest runway for Juha Vehmaanperä, the audience couldn’t help but sit up and take notice. Named “Masculinity Tested”, the collection redefines the predetermined archetypes of gender roles and ideals. Through the use of bulky, hairy threadwork and hyper-masculine looks fashioned with decorative elements inspired by collage artist Pascal Marlin, Vehmaanperä reminds us that gender doesn’t define our means of self-expression. While his pair of low-key black sneakers peeking through helped to ground the whole eclectic look. If clothes are like our second skin, Vehmaanperä’s designs are certainly an effective armour.

4

Verena Schepperheyn spring/summer 2018, Copenhagen Fashion Week

So striking a figure does Thiemke cut that this is one of the rare moments where you notice the ensemble before you notice the model himself. Walking for Berlin-founded label run by Verena Schepperheyn, the model forewent his typical bad boy look for a sleeker image entirely - the dishevelled bleached blonde hair styled in a relaxed, surfer style manner paired with simple red shorts and a black sweatshirt marked with white needlework over the collarbone and frontal pocket.