HHV Portraits with G.H. Bass
Berlin Community
HHV Portraits show members of our community dressed and styled by themselves to show their true character. From leather footwear to sneakers and slip-ons, hoodies to mohair and parkas, our community is dressed to impress. Working in fashion, finance or freelancing, we will highlight different individuals monthly and share the versatility our community has through their thoughts and feelings about where they are, what they are wearing, and much more…
Nigel
Who are you, where are you from, what do you do – and what do you do when you’re not doing that?
I’m Nigel, 31, originally from Karlsruhe, and I work as a Brand Director for a streetwear label. When I’m not working, I’m usually gaming with friends or hanging out with my partner. I don’t get to cook as much as I’d like these days, but I do enjoy it when I get the chance.
What inspires you to be yourself and dress the way you do? Are there people, music, or places that influence you?
Honestly, I don’t really overthink it. I’m into nerdy stuff, pop culture, and hip-hop – I guess it’s that mix that shapes my style.
They say shoes say a lot about a person – why did you go for the G.H. Bass loafers today?
I’ve been collecting sneakers since I was 14, so sometimes it’s just nice to switch things up with something different.
Which Berlin neighbourhood best reflects your style and why? Any cafés or restaurants you’d recommend? Where do you go to unwind or get inspired?
A few places I’d recommend: Jaja Bar in Neukölln, Bejte near Nollendorfplatz, and the Kartoffelacker up on the 6th floor of KaDeWe.
What’s next? If you had to predict a trend for the next few years – what would it be?
Tough one – everything kind of moves in cycles. I think the 2000s will keep coming back in new ways, archives will stay big, and I could definitely see an offline movement gaining traction.
Storm
Who are you, where are you from, what do you do – and what do you do when you’re not doing that?
I’m Storm. I was born in Leicestershire, grew up in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and later near Hanover, then moved to Berlin 10 years ago – best decision ever. I’m an influencer, art director, and sometimes I do photography too. When I’m not working, I spend a lot of time with my son and my husband – we’re usually out in parks, cafés, or playgrounds.
What inspires you to be yourself and dress the way you do? Are there people, music, or places that influence you?
I’ve always dressed how I wanted and developed a sense of confidence pretty early on. Over the years, I figured out what suits me and what I feel good in – and that’s basically been my compass since. I get inspired by lots of amazing people, but also love pulling ideas from movies and series.
They say shoes say a lot about a person – why did you go for the G.H. Bass loafers today?
Sometimes I just want to throw together a cool look without too much effort. The G.H. Bass loafers go with so many things in my wardrobe and even elevate a simple jeans outfit.
Which Berlin neighbourhood best reflects your style and why? Any cafés or restaurants you’d recommend? Where do you go when you want to unwind or feel creative?
I’d say it really depends on the vibe. Am I a Mitte/Prenzlauer Berg mom at the playground in jeans, a cap, and sneakers? Or if I’m out with my girlfriends, then maybe a little Charlottenburg side comes out.
I’m often at Open House or Material. I love love Dashi. I don’t go out much at night anymore, so I’ve become your typical Berlin creative who checks out all the hyped places. Right now I’m into Bertie and Pinci. And one spot I actually wanted to gatekeep (oops) is Sasaya – it’s a must.
What’s next? If you had to predict a trend for the next few years – what would it be?
I hardly ever follow trends and don’t really keep up with what’s “trending.” But I do think we’ll see a much bigger focus on second-hand and vintage clothing, and maybe buying luxury fashion won’t be so trendy anymore.
Simon
Who are you, where are you from, what do you do – and what do you do when you’re not doing that?
I’m Simon, born and raised in North Rhine-Westphalia, and I’ve been living in Berlin for a few years now.
What I do? On one hand, I’ve been working as a content creator for several years, and on the other, I manage creators myself and co-founded the agency 0360WORKS – that’s where I spend most of my time.
When I’m not doing that, you’ll usually find me in a café on the weekend – well, to be honest, also during the week quite a bit.
Staying active and moving is super important to me – it keeps me balanced and gives me the energy I need to stay creative and handle day-to-day stress.
What inspires you to be yourself and dress the way you do? Are there people, music, or places that influence you?
I pull inspiration from a lot of different places.
I studied architecture, which really shaped the way I see things. Art, design, color, nature – and of course lots of people – all inspire me, whether it’s for my outfits or creative work.
They say shoes say a lot about a person – why did you choose the G.H. Bass loafers today?
I went with the G.H. Bass loafers because the playful Mary Jane/loafer combo gives them a unique silhouette. I think they’re a cool choice for summer – especially paired with shorts and/or colorful socks.
Which Berlin neighbourhood best reflects your style and why? Any cafés or restaurants you’d recommend? Where do you go when you want to relax or get inspired?
I’d say the area that reflects my style the most is Berlin-Mitte. There’s no set “look” here – it’s super mixed, multicultural, diverse, and open.
Mitte’s got loads of great cafés, although they’re often pretty packed.
One of my personal favorite spots is in Prenzlauer Berg: a small café at Helmholtzplatz called Mokannti – I’ve had some really great conversations and creative ideas there.
What’s next? If you had to predict a trend for the next few years – what would it be?
Good question – trends come and go so fast these days that I don’t even catch them all. I don’t jump on every single one either; I try to stay true to my own style.
But if I had to guess, I’d say we’re heading toward a more practical, minimalist vibe – moving away from the whole Y2K thing and super oversized baggy fits.
