Von Köck *Ethical Luxury Redefined

Von Köck Ethical Luxury
*Timeless Craftsmanship x Sustainable Luxury

written Monica de Luna

Vienna’s luxury jeweler VON KÖCK stands as a symbol of sustainable craftsmanship, blending heritage with a forward-thinking approach to ethical luxury.

For over 28 years, this family-led brand has been shaping the world of fine jewelry under the careful guidance of Felix Köck and Nattaya Englinger, creating timeless pieces with a commitment to artistry and responsibility.

VON KÖCK
Ethical Luxury Redefined

Each creation by VON KÖCK tells a story. Whether it's a diamond bracelet, sapphire earrings, or an engagement ring, these masterpieces are crafted to become cherished heirlooms. The brand’s focus on sustainability runs deep, from the responsible sourcing of gemstones to the personal relationships they maintain with select mines, ensuring ethical practices every step of the way. A hallmark of their innovative approach is the Sahara collection, which celebrates "Recycled Jewelry" by repurposing diamonds from pre-existing sources like inheritances and auctions. No new diamonds are mined for this collection, allowing VON KÖCK to reimagine luxury without compromising the planet’s resources. Each diamond is carefully recut, certified, and brought back to life with a contemporary edge.

VON KÖCK has also expanded into the world of pre-certified watches, launching the VON KÖCK Selected collection. These timepieces, ranging from Rolex to Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe, are historical treasures. Sourced from esteemed collectors, each watch is meticulously inspected and certified, offering access to rare models that continue to embody craftsmanship and legacy.

Sustainability remains at the heart of everything VON KÖCK creates. By working exclusively with conflict-free gemstones and focusing on traditional Austrian handcraft, the brand ensures that every piece is as ethical as it is beautiful. VON KÖCK’s dedication to craftsmanship and the environment makes each piece a statement of luxury and a testament to a larger vision—where timeless beauty meets responsible design.

discover www.vonkoeck.com
follow @vonkoeck

VON KÖCK Sahara Collection

.new collection
VON KÖCK
*Ancient Elegance with Sahara Collection

written Amanda Mortenson

Vienna's elite Graben pulses with whispered histories, and at its core, VON KÖCK, Austria's premier jeweler, is shaking up the luxury scene with an ethical twist.

The launch of their Heritage and Recycling Diamond Jewelry Collection last year sent shockwaves through Europe’s high-end jewelry market, intertwining opulence with sustainability and setting a new benchmark for conscientious luxury. Building on this momentum, VON KÖCK has now expanded its revolutionary Sahara Collection. This latest addition signifies a new step towards eco-friendly elegance, demonstrating that high-end jewelry can honor the earth and its discerning wearers.

Sahara Diamond Loop Large Yellow

Sahara Open Drop Yellow Earrings

The Sahara Collection is VON KÖCK’s bold manifesto on environmental stewardship. These diamonds are time travelers, sourced from estates, heirlooms, and auctions, carrying whispers of the past. Through painstaking craftsmanship, each gem is reborn—recut, polished, and recertified to contemporary perfection. This process ensures the exceptional quality VON KÖCK is famed for while leaving no fresh environmental scars.

Every piece in the Sahara Collection is a harmonious blend of history and modernity, each telling its own unique story. The Sahara Open Drop Small exudes delicate grace, while the Sahara Diamond Loop Large commands attention. The Sahara Open Drop Bracelet and the Sahara 3 Stone Ring blend classic charm with avant-garde flair.

“Our Sahara Collection - a mesmerizing journey where ancient gemstones are reborn with a modern touch. Each piece is a testament to history, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.”

Felix von Köck, VON KÖCK

also read
Von Köck Revolutionizes Glamour Europe's First Eco-Chic Heritage Diamond Collection

Sahra Open Drop Small Yellow

Sahara 3 Stone Pendant Yellow

Sahara 3 Stone Ring Yellow

Visionary leaders Felix Köck and Nattaya Englinger breathe new life into a legacy that spans generations. At the heart of their mission is a fierce dedication to environmental responsibility and a commitment to offering only the finest, most ethically sourced creations.

“The fusion of tradition and innovation, creating an atmosphere full of imagination and values where our work can flourish and grow into new dimensions - this is the world of VON KÖCK.”

says Felix Köck, encapsulating the brand’s philosophy.

discover www.vonkoeck.com
follow @vonkoeck

VANDA NOVAK *FW24 Collection

.designer´s talk
with Dominika Nowak
Step into the Future with VANDA NOVAK

written Amanda Mortenson

Few names in fashion carry the raw, unapologetic spirit of innovation like VANDA NOVAK. The FW24 Collection marks a radical departure from past seasons while fiercely holding onto its avant-garde roots.

VANDA NOVAK doesn’t follow trends; it sets them. "I try not to look for already blazed trails and not to follow trends closely. I always try to find my own way and think as abstractly as possible, somewhat detached from what is happening during fashion weeks. A bit contrary to reality," says the designer. This philosophy comes to life in the brand´s FW24 Collection, where traditional craftsmanship collides with modern aesthetics, crafting a harmony that’s revolutionary and timeless.

“I want to make shoes that are very sensual but comfortable, contemporary but referring to tradition, feminine and delicate but strong in expression.”

Dominika Nowak speaks with Amanda Mortenson
LE MILE Magazine Digital, 2024

ANDA NOVAK, Dominika Nowak
seen by Tatiana Hajduk

The collection dares to play with form, blending round and geometric shapes in a dance of contrasts. Picture extremely long boots with metal toes, round silver slingbacks, and square Art Deco mules. At the heart of it all is the image of a woman - a diva, drenched in glitter and metal, exuding confidence and elegance. "Winter is a sad, gray time in my latitude - hence the longing for sparkle and light," NOVAK reveals.

Balancing opposing elements is NOVAK's forte. "In my life, I try to follow the philosophy of balance, avoiding radicalism. It's a bit like a constant search for the golden mean," she explains. This quest is evident in the collection’s ability to merge sensuality with comfort, modernity with tradition, and delicacy with strength.

Footwear, often seen as mere accessories, becomes the centerpiece in NOVAK’s world. Each piece demands attention, redefining the concept of statement shoes. "A shoe is an important accessory to clothing. It can make the same outfit look completely different. It can redefine the silhouette and its character," NOVAK asserts. The FW24 collection embodies this belief, turning footwear into potent expressions of identity and style.

NOVAK's creative process is as unconventional as her designs. "I have no idea how I do it... I follow what I feel and what is authentic to me. I hope that sometimes I succeed," she admits. This authenticity shines through in every piece, inviting wearers into a world where tradition meets innovation and fashion becomes a journey of discovery.

VANDA NOVAK
FW24 Collection

As VANDA NOVAK continues to shatter the boundaries of contemporary footwear, the FW24 Collection stands as a testament to her vision. This is a bold statement, a rebellion against the conventional, and an invitation to embrace the daring and the beautiful. In NOVAK's realm, fashion transcends mere clothing—it's an experience and a revolution, one groundbreaking step at a time.

discover www.vandanovak.com
follow @vandanovak_official

VON KÖCK *Redefining Wedding Luxury

.curated selection
VON KÖCK
*Redefining Wedding Luxury

written Amanda Mortenson

VON KÖCK is the epitome of elegance and sophistication, making every piece a testament to love and commitment.

VON KÖCK's dazzling jewelry collection ensures your special day is unforgettable. This Viennese luxury jeweler, renowned for their meticulous craftsmanship and bespoke designs, offers everything from timeless engagement rings to enchanting earrings, bracelets, and, of course, wedding bands.

VON KÖCK
GLASHÜTTE ORIGINAL SIXTIES PANORAMA DATUM
OMEGA SPEEDMASTER PROFESSIONAL
BREGUET TRADITION 7097BR

Felix and Nattaya, the creative forces behind VON KÖCK, personally select each gemstone, ensuring only the highest quality. Their hands-on approach guarantees that every piece is curated, designed, and sold with exceptional care. This bespoke service ensures that every bride and groom's dream jewelry is brought to life, adhering to the company's motto: "The Essence of Perfection."

With unparalleled access to exclusive, top-tier gemstones, VON KÖCK turns your imagination into reality. Decades of industry connections allow them to source the rarest stones, creating pieces as unique as your love story. From the moment you say "yes" to the day you say "I do," VON KÖCK offers expert advice on everything from the perfect engagement ring to stunning wedding accessories.

For him, VON KÖCK offers iconic timepieces like the OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch, Glashütte Original's Sixties Panorama Date, and BREGUET's Tradition Automatique Seconde Rétrograde. These watches blend heritage and innovation, making them perfect for the groom's attire.

For her, the collection is magical. The "Petit Sparkle" earrings, in white or yellow gold with diamonds, offer a playful yet elegant touch. The "Solitaire Heart" statement earrings are designed to make hearts race, while the "Gran Curve" earrings, featuring over 100 uniquely cut diamonds, create a mesmerizing form as distinctive as your wedding day.

Completing the bridal range are bracelets and necklaces like the "Pear Halo" necklace with its hand-crafted details and a shimmering teardrop diamond. Each piece enhances the natural beauty of the wearer, transforming these jewelry items into treasured heirlooms.

VON KÖCK
GRAN CURVE

VON KÖCK
SOLITÄR HEART

VON KÖCK
DIAMOND TENDER BIANCO

VON KÖCK ensures each certified gemstone is beautiful and ethically sourced. Their wedding collection creates lasting memories with exquisite designs and unparalleled service.

discover www.vonkoeck.com
follow @vonkoeck

Von Köck *Eco-Chic Heritage Diamond

.new collection
Von Köck Revolutionizes Glamour
Europe's First Eco-Chic Heritage Diamond Collection

written Sarah Arendts

Luxury and opulence often eclipse ethical considerations in the dazzling world of high-end jewelry. However, Austria's premier jeweler Von Köck is breaking the mold.

Charting an uncharted course, they unveil Europe's first heritage/recycled diamond jewelry collection. This is the dawn of a pioneering movement towards sustainable luxury.

Von Köck
Europe's First Heritage Diamond Jewelry Collection

The Sahara Collection, unveiled in 2023, marks a paradigm shift in how we perceive and appreciate luxury jewelry. Von Köck, nestled in the heart of Vienna on the prestigious Graben, has long been synonymous with unparalleled craftsmanship and exquisite designs. However, with this collection, they are adding another feather to their cap - that of environmental stewardship.

This groundbreaking collection is a testament to the brand's commitment to safeguarding the earth's finite resources. In a bold move, Von Köck has eschewed the use of newly mined diamonds. Instead, the collection boasts diamonds sourced from old stocks, inheritances, auctions, and second-hand goods. Each gemstone is carefully selected from existing pieces, ensuring that no new environmental footprint is created in their quest for beauty.

These diamonds undergo a meticulous process of reworking, cutting, and re-certification, aligning with the latest standards in Heritage/Recycled Diamond Jewelry. This process not only breathes new life into the stones but also ensures that each piece meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship that Von Köck is renowned for.

Felix von Köck, the visionary at the helm of this second-generation family business, encapsulates the essence of this venture:

"The combination of tradition and innovation, the creation of an atmosphere full of imagination and values ​​in which our work can thrive and grow into new dimensions - that is the world of VON KÖCK."

Von Köck's commitment to excellence is not confined to their jewelry creations. The brand is equally passionate about finding the best quality materials for their high-quality watch brands from Germany and Switzerland. This ethos of pursuing perfection while honoring cultural heritage and responding to consumer demands has been the cornerstone of their success.

Von Köck continues to innovate, with exciting new additions to the Sahara Collection on the horizon. Their journey is a shining example of how luxury and responsibility can coexist, creating a new standard in the world of fine jewelry.

Von Köck’s initiative is a timely reminder that luxury need not come at the cost of the environment. It is a clarion call to the industry and consumers alike, to redefine luxury in terms of not just aesthetic and quality but also its impact on our planet.

discover www.vonkoeck.com
follow @vonkoeck

Berlin's Ucon Acrobatics *Lotus Infinity Series

New Collection
Ucon Acrobatics
* Lotus Infinity Series

written Sarah Arendts

As the orange and brown hues of autumn sweep across Berlin, change is in the air, and it's not just the changing of the leaves. A trailblazer in rethinking fashion’s carbon footprint, Ucon Acrobatics, is shifting the paradigm of textile production by launching its "Lotus Infinity" series.

This fall, bags and backpacks, inspired by minimalist design, will not just be another addition to the world of fashion. They are a statement. Each backpack in the "Lotus Infinity" series will reuse an impressive 850g of textile waste - a blend of 82% discarded garments and 18% industrial waste from textile production. A response to an industry notorious for being the second-largest pollutant, this innovation looks to mitigate the 10% of global carbon emissions rooted in textile manufacturing.

With disturbing data indicating that only 0.6% of textiles were recycled in 2021, the efforts of Ucon Acrobatics co-founders, Martin Fussenegger and Jochen Smuda, are timely and radical. "Every second, a truckload of textiles faces the grim fate of being either burned or landfilled," laments Fussenegger. By shifting focus from recycling PET bottles to harnessing textile waste, they're hoping to address the pressing need for sustainable production methods.

The process, as fascinating as it is revolutionary, involves transforming textile waste, especially those rich in PET, into high-quality PET granules. These are then metamorphosed into yarns, slashing CO2 emissions by 35% when contrasted with synthetic virgin polyester. The brand's commitment doesn’t stop there. Those familiar hard plastic elements and foams? They're now being substituted with felt derived from textile waste.

But, innovation isn't limited to just recycling. Ucon Acrobatics has spent close to three years perfecting a material, “PUrTEX∞”. This isn't just any 'vegan leather'. It boasts a scratch resistance upped by 100 times, completely devoid of solvents.

Ucon Acrobatics
Lotus Infinity Collection

Taking a leaf out of nature’s playbook, Ucon Acrobatics employs a “dope dye” technique, a dyeing process that's resource-efficient. Think of a scenario where water consumption drops by 90%, chemical usage dives by 80%, and energy and CO2 emissions are halved. That’s the reality they’re creating.

The vision for 2024 is bold. Ucon Acrobatics aims to lead the textile world into an era of complete circularity. It's not just about sustainability but redefining the term. By ensuring products are recyclable at the end of their lifecycle, they're championing a movement where textiles find a new lease of life, time and time again.

For Fussenegger, the mission is clear, “Our measures are extraordinary, yes, but necessary. The higher production costs are a price we're willing to pay, for the circular economy is the call of our times.” The gauntlet has been thrown, beckoning the industry to follow suit, because as he rightly points out, “The industry must evolve – preferably sooner than later.”

Born in Berlin, Ucon Acrobatics is synonymous with bags and backpacks that resonate with the urban soul. Their ethos is firmly rooted in minimizing environmental impact while crafting designs that stand the test of time. With products available in over 1,000 stores across 34 countries, their footprint, both in fashion and sustainability, is global. Because at Ucon Acrobatics, the belief is that style and responsibility aren't mutually exclusive. They're two sides of the same recycled coin.

all images
(c) Ucon Acrobatics

Von Köck Jewelry Vienna's Luxury Jeweler

New Campaign
Von Köck Diamond Evolution
* From Raw Gem to Handcrafted Icon

written Amanda Mortenson

Amidst the shimmering allure of diamonds as symbols of flawless beauty and timeless grace, Vienna's luxury jeweler, Von Köck, elevates this admiration to unparalleled heights.

Moving beyond the globally accepted 4Cs—carat, cut, clarity, and color—this esteemed jewelry expert thoroughly scrutinizes each diamond for both exceptional quality and ethical sourcing. Once approved, the unblemished gemstone is entrusted to master artisans, where it transforms into a breathtaking masterpiece.

VON KÖCK
Vienna Luxury Jeweler
Collection Campaign

But what truly sets Von Köck apart is their thematic collections. In the Navette Collection, the spotlight is on the eponymously named Navette diamond. Its elongated, boat-hull-like cut serves as a canvas for Von Köck's artisans, who infuse a touch of subtle extravagance into the classical silhouette. The resulting pieces, including the statement choker adorned with 194 Navette diamonds set in white gold, capture the imagination and promise to dazzle at any high-profile soirée.

Not to be outdone, the Paraiba Collection exudes raw, magnetic allure. Centered around the rare Paraiba Tourmaline, whose vibrant turquoise to green shades pop dramatically against cool white gold, this collection is an irresistible siren's call for the discerning. Whether it's the earrings' exquisite blend of 26 green and blue Paraiba tourmalines or the rings that showcase the gem's electrifying luminance, every piece feels like a plunge into a turquoise lagoon or a deep azure ocean.

In contrast, the Rainbow Collection offers a burst of joy with its effervescent play on colors. Embracing the full spectrum of the rainbow, this collection primarily uses perfectly graded sapphires to celebrate life's vibrant hues. From earrings that dance with light and color to rings that narrate a tale of vivacity and contemporary aesthetics, there's a promise of a pot of gold at the end of this rainbow.

Taking inspiration from one of Vienna's iconic landmarks, the Schönbrunn Collection is a tribute to the 270-year-old Tiergarten Schönbrunn. Melding 18-karat gold with a bevy of precious stones, the collection reflects the majesty of both marine and terrestrial creatures. Whether it's the Firefish brooch-pendant alive with diamonds, sapphires, and rubies, or the rings capturing the essence of giraffes and zebras, the designs ooze meticulous attention to detail and undeniable sophistication.

Von Köck is not just about selling jewelry; it's about narrating tales of tradition coupled with innovation. Nestled in Vienna's prestigious Graben and helmed by the second-generation Felix Köck, the brand has cemented its place among Austria's premier jewelers. Their philosophy? A perfect blend of honoring cultural heritage while tuning into the wishes of their patrons.

For Von Köck, jewelry-making transcends mere craft; it's an ongoing journey "From Generation to Perfection."

discover www.vonkoeck.com
follow @vonkoeck

Illuminating Excellence with MOEBE

*New Collection
Illuminating Excellence
MOEBE's Ceramic Table Lamp and Tube Pendant

written Sarah Arendts

In the pulsating heart of Copenhagen, on the serene island of Amager, lies a workshop where creation meets purpose, and design meets sustainability.

This is the home of MOEBE, a design studio formed in 2014 by architects Martin de Neergard Christensen, Nicholas Oldroyd, and cabinet maker Anders Thams. Their overarching philosophy? Simple, but profound: consciously made furniture and lifestyle objects with great details, designed to last a lifetime.

In today's age of fleeting fashion and planned obsolescence, MOEBE stands as a beacon of hope. Their mantra emphasizes on the need for 'less'. Less noise, less clutter, and certainly less waste. They believe in creating room to breathe and cherishing the small everyday moments that render meaning to our lives. Their designs are a celebration of this philosophy, stripped of all that's unnecessary, embodying pure functionality, purpose, and a keen sense of aesthetics.

We turn our attention to two of their recent creations that exemplify this ethos: the Ceramic Table Lamp and the Tube Pendant.

MOEBE
Ceramic Table Lamp

Ceramic Table Lamp — A Symphony of Porcelain & Light

At first glance, the Ceramic Table Lamp might seem like just another lamp, but dig deeper, and you'll realize its genius. Unlike traditional lampshades that offer limited adjustability, MOEBE’s version comes with a completely separate porcelain piece. This unique design grants the user full flexibility — pivot up, down, left, or right, shining light precisely where it's needed.

Each lamp is a masterpiece, handcrafted in Portugal. The raw, unglazed ceramic is infused with colour pigment right into the porcelain, ensuring that no two lamps are the same. But what truly stands out about this lamp is its modular design. In line with MOEBE's 'Right to repair' principle, the lamp is component-based. So, if a part malfunctions, simply replace it without discarding the entire product.

Its aesthetic beauty, combined with its functional versatility, makes the Ceramic Table Lamp not just a lighting solution, but a sculptural adornment for your space.

MOEBE
Tube Pendant

Tube Pendant — The Alchemy of Aluminium & Paper

MOEBE's Tube Pendant is a revelation in lighting design. Crafted from a robust aluminium tube, it's internally lined with a simple translucent paper. This ingenious combination allows users to control the lamp’s aura. Adjust the top for upward light diffusion or extend the paper to cast a warm, soft glow around the edges.

MOEBE recognizes that light is the soul of a space. The Tube Pendant, available in two sizes and four colours, captures this essence, allowing homeowners and designers to elevate the ambiance of any room.

MOEBE is not just a brand; it's a movement. It's an invitation to embrace simplicity, quality, and sustainability. In their hands, raw materials transform into functional art pieces, and spaces come alive with purpose and beauty.

all images
(c) lemilestudios