What characterizes each and every Rianna + Nina item is a colourful flamboyance thanks to the multi-patterned, one-of-a-kind fabrics that make up everything from their covetable kimonos to their collectible handbags. Staying true to either of the ladies roots - Rianna grew up in Athens, Greece and Nina near Frankfurt, Germany - the fashion items are all handmade in Berlin, while the bags are made in Athens. "We wanted to be involved in every step [of the production process]," shares Nina. "It's such a wonderful feeling knowing all of the people who produce for us in person and having a close connection to them."

Sourcing the vintage fabrics which are given a new lease on life as items in the Rianna + Nina collection happens thanks to Rianna's strong ties to the vintage world. Rianna in Berlin is actually a takeoff from Berlin, a popular vintage clothing store she had opened in Athens in 1987. "I’ve spent my whole life working with vintage cloth and fabrics and could build a worldwide network!" Rianna shares with us. "Of course, it’s still challenging to find wonderful and rare fabrics from all over the world. The feeling of 'treasure hunting' a fabric in amazing condition is something that has driven me for decades." 

We ask Rianna about the deciding factors that determine what a certain piece of fabric will be "transformed" into, (i.e. a multi-patterned silk and lace dress, a quirky bag, etc). "I decide things like that totally based on my instincts," she says. "Sometimes I'll find a scarf but won't use it immediately. A few weeks later I'll find a second one that matches the first so perfectly that it feels as if they were 'waiting' for each other!" This careful attention to detail and time is something that Rianna + Nina's clients definitely appreciate. And it makes sense too; each item is that much more special to its wearer thanks to the fact that she knows nobody else will have that exact same item in their wardrobe.

The one thing that is certain is that each item in the collection would be right at home in both Nina and Rianna's personal wardrobes. In fact, the individuality of their designs is enough to brand the customers who wear them… almost a special, kaleidoscopically brilliant "tribe" of like-minded women who identify themselves by their flamboyant garments at first sight. Just like Rianna and Nina did when they first met. Now, that's much more exciting than a secret handshake...