At Diemonde, Swedish Minimalism and Togolese Dynamism
For young designers, it’s particularly apt to be thinking about change right now, and not because of what’s playing out on the global stage — as such thought could point to an increasingly widespread factor that most labels are tackling head on. Put simply, it’s a pivotal shift in mindset that adds depth to the purpose of making clothes. “My African heritage combined with my Scandinavian upbringing is the cornerstone of my design philosophy, infusing it with a unique blend of cultural elements and values,” he says. For da Silveira, the design process is not just a source to find inspiration, but a guiding force. “My designs are a reflection of the rich tapestry of influences that have shaped me, from Africa to Scandinavia and the multicultural neighborhood I grew up in while moving from Togo to Sweden.” The designer’s flesh-and-blood creations imbue details that range from color to storytelling, navigating through tradition and innovation. “The fusion of African culture, hip-hop culture, Swedish heritage and Scandinavian aesthetics creates a distinctive design identity,” notes da Silveira. “It reflects the multicultural world we live in today, resonating with a new Scandinavian generation that values diversity, inclusivity and authenticity.”
That’s not necessarily an easy feat, but it’s one that da Siveira has embraced with gusto. Here, technically accomplished ideas adapt to a panoply of bright hues, which, juxtaposed to a neutral undercurrent, have become a hallmark of the label. “African art and traditions are known for their vibrant and diverse color schemes,” he asserts. “These hues have deeply impacted my design choices, leading me to incorporate bold and striking colors from my early years in Lomé into my collections.”
The multicultural communities outside of Stockholm’s inner city have reinforced the designer’s belief in the power of diversity. “They’re societies where people from all walks of life come together, and this inclusivity aligns perfectly with my vision of fashion that celebrates different backgrounds and identities,” he says. The rising generation of Third Culture Kids in the streets of Stockholm have exposed him to a world of cultural expressions, resulting in an “urban energy that has inspired to create pieces that resonate with youth culture across borders.”
At Diemonde, an of-the-moment spin is rendered by linen, wool and cotton twill textiles that embody the very essence of Scandinavian aesthetics, quality craftsmanship and luxury. “They are hero textiles for me because it allows me to create pieces that are both durable, elegant and are aligning with my core values,” says da Silveira. “Scandinavian minimalism influences my silhouettes, emphasizing clean lines and simplicity, combined with relaxed fits and boxy shapes aligned with the global street culture influences in my collections. These silhouettes are a nod to Swedish design heritage and represent timeless elegance with a twist of a contemporary modernity.”
And, as if the density of contemporary stimuli weren’t enough, values of bravery, disruption, and empowerment have further-deepened his commitment to using fashion as a platform for social impact. “I've evolved into a designer confident in my vision who seeks to challenge norms, disrupt stereotypes, and empower individuals to embrace their uniqueness,” he says. “My work has become a reflection of the intercultural Swedish society I'm part of, resonating with the energy and lifestyle of a new generation.” Ditto, his preoccupation to walk through the lane of social welfare continues in undaunted unison. “My ability to have an outside perspective has been a blessing” he says. “Learning more about the supply-chain and how the industry really works pushed me to work on long term solutions for Diemonde that will keep us sustainable through time. To be able to create opportunities for integration, labor and sustainability throughout the value chain is something that speaks to the core value of Diemonde.”
All in all, the label is poised to explode commercially without alienating those elements that characterize its soulful approach and universal appeal. To wit — if da Silveira manages to press a little harder on the silhouette without losing sight of his Scandi and Togolese infusion, he’ll better serve his presumed purpose, which is to spotlight his clothes in the name of change.
