Berlin Fashion Week 2021: Kilian Kerner, Kylie Jenner and Co.
If the capital becomes a fashion metropolis, the industry’s heart beats to the rhythm of high heels and camera shutters: The Fashion Week Berlin attracts international designers, Top models, influencers, and fashion creators from all over the world to the Spree — and turns Berlin into a pulsating control center of the global fashion world for a week. What lies behind the scenes of this mega-event, which designers are exciting, and how you, as an emerging talent, can benefit from the energy of this week, you will learn here.
Berlin as the Center of the International Fashion World
Twice a year, Berlin transforms into a runway for the world. The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin is one of the most significant fashion weeks in Europe — even though it maintains its own distinct positioning in direct comparison to the Big 4 Fashion Weeks in Paris, Milan, London, and New York. Berlin stands for avant-garde design, for courage to make a statement, and for a fashion culture that goes far beyond the mainstream.
From early morning until deep into the night, shows, presentations, press brunches, and networking events take place. German fashion designers use the platform to present their collections to a global audience — and up-and-coming talents from all over the world pilgrimage to the capital, hoping to be discovered. Anyone who wants to know how the Berlin Fashion Week differs from other metropolises should also take a look at the Paris Fashion Week dates, the Milan Fashion Week dates, and the London Fashion Week dates.
- International audience from over 60 countries
- Hundreds of accredited fashion journalists
- Dozens of designer shows and presentations
- Numerous side events and pop-up formats
- Strong presence of influencers and stars
Kilian Kerner, stars and highlights of fashion week
Kilian Kerner — Berlin’s creative standout artist
Kilian Kerner has been the face of Berlin’s fashion scene for years. His shows are events, not mere presentations: dramatic stage settings, emotional music, and an aesthetic that sees fashion as a total work of art. During the Berlin Fashion Week, Kerner once again delivered a collection that thrilled both critics and fans alike. His designs move between avant-garde sculptural forms and wearable elegance — a tightrope walk that few other designers master as convincingly.
“Fashion is not a product for me, but a conversation — between the designer, the wearer, and the world we live in.”
Kylie Jenner and the Influencer Effect
The fact that Kylie Jenner and similarly influential personalities attend the Fashion Week is no coincidence. Fashion weeks have long understood that social media presence is just as valuable as traditional press coverage. A single post from Kylie Jenner reaches more people than many glossy magazines combined — and attracts a new generation of fashion enthusiasts who see fashion as part of their digital identity.
For aspiring models, this means: The competition is bigger than ever, but so is the visibility. Whoever walks the runway and is professionally positioned can build their own reach through social media. Runway and Catwalk Tips help to present oneself professionally from the very beginning.
The most important shows at a glance
| Designer / Label | Style & Orientation | Show Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Kilian Kerner | Avant-garde, sculptural | Emotional stage concept |
| Dawid Tomaszewski | Elegance, femininity | High-quality tailoring |
| Rebekka Ruétz | Experimental, colorful | Strong political messages |
| William Fan | Modern, minimalist | Sustainable materials |
| New Talent Showcase | Diverse, experimental | Platform for new talents |
Career Opportunities for Models at the Berlin Fashion Week
Why Fashion Weeks Are Crucial for Models
Who wants to make a career as a model cannot avoid the big fashion weeks. Berlin offers an ideal starting point: The scene is open, the shows are actively looking for fresh faces, and the model agencies in Berlin are as easy to reach as nowhere else. Anyone planning their first appearance on a real runway should prepare well — from the right model portfolio for the casting to everything needed to prepare for a casting optimally.
Diversity on the runway — all sizes welcome
One of the most exciting developments of the Berlin fashion week is the increasing diversity on the catwalk. More and more designers are using models beyond classical standards. Whether curvy, plus-size or extraordinary: Anyone who believes they don’t fit into the modeling world should look into real alternatives. Become a model is no longer a niche topic — and also modeling in larger sizes finds its place on Berlin’s runways.
The question of the minimum height for model agencies is less rigid today than it was in the past. There are even model agencies without a minimum height that specifically look for unusual types. What matters most is the overall presence — and having the right agency by your side.
- Curvy and plus-size models are increasingly in demand
- Diverse body types on major shows
- Inclusive casting formats on the rise
- Agencies look for personality, not measurements
How to start your own modeling career after Fashion Week
The path to a model agency — step by step
Many dream of walking the catwalk during Fashion Week. However, the path there almost always goes through a reputable agency. Those who know the requirements for a modeling career and understand the necessary steps to become a model have a clear advantage. Inform yourself early about model measurements and requirements so you know what agencies look for.
For your first contact with an agency, it’s also worth looking beyond Berlin: A model agency in Hamburg or become a model in Frankfurt also offer excellent starting conditions. Those thinking big take a look at the opportunities for become a model in New York or become a model in London.
Seriousness and costs — what you need to know
Unfortunately, unscrupulous providers use the hype around fashion weeks to lure inexperienced talents. The most important rule: A reputable model agency never asks for advance fees. What you should know about this is explained in the article on whether a model agency may charge fees — and how you can find model agencies without fees. The topic of earnings as a model also deserves realistic assessments that have nothing to do with the exaggerated promises of dubious providers.
Anyone wanting to enter the world of fashion alongside their career will find valuable tips in the guide on modeling as a side job. And for a direct entry, it’s worth taking a look at the casting at CM Models — one of the most transparent starting points for newcomers.
Your Application Checklist for the Fashion Week Season
- ☐ Take current photos in natural light
- ☐ Professionally compile your model portfolio
- ☐ Correctly and up-to-date document your measurements
- ☐ Research and compare serious agencies
- ☐ Draft a letter of application for a model agency
- ☐ Note down castings in your region
- ☐ Set up your social media profile professionally
- ☐ Practice runway training and posing
- ☐ Submit your application and follow up
The article on how to properly contact a Model agency provides specific phrasing tips. And for those who want to choose from the best addresses, the overview of the Top 10 Model agencies offers a reliable guide. Now is the right moment: Apply now and take the first step toward the runway.
Frequently asked questions about the Berlin Fashion Week
Who can attend the Berlin Fashion Week?
Most of the shows at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin are reserved for industry professionals, press, and accredited guests. However, some side events and showrooms are also accessible to fashion enthusiasts. An accreditation as a journalist or industry representative is the safest way to gain access to the coveted shows.
How does Berlin differ from other Fashion Weeks?
Compared to Paris or Milan, Berlin is more experimental, accessible, and political. While the major luxury brands showcase their flagship collections on the Parisian runways, Berlin-based designers often use Fashion Week for social statements and innovative concepts. The London Fashion Week shares this avant-garde attitude, but has a stronger connection to the international luxury industry.
Can newcomers be booked for the Fashion Week?
Yes — especially at emerging showcases and with up-and-coming designers, newcomers have real opportunities. What matters is professional preparation: a well-groomed appearance, a solid portfolio, and ideally the support of a reputable agency. Anyone who knows the requirements for models and goes to the casting well-prepared has realistic chances of getting their first job.
Is Berlin a good starting point for a modeling career?
Exactly. Berlin is one of the few cities where newcomers have direct access to the international fashion scene. The density of agencies is high, there are numerous castings, and the openness towards new faces is noticeably greater than in many other metropolises. Anyone who establishes themselves in Berlin and works consistently creates a springboard for international career steps — whether in New York, London or Milan.
Runway Debut: Ariane and Luisa for Vogue x Breuninger
Artur Ritter for Adidas Running x Courir - Model in Paris
Anton Kundrus for enfin levé - Edge and Minimalism Meets High-Performance Fashion
Balenciaga x Pierpaolo Piccioli: New Creative Director succeeds Demna
Fashion Week Berlin 2025: shows, calendar, dates + live from Berlin
Model Agency Casting on 22 June in Berlin Mitte: Pre Fashion Week Berlin
