Led by creative director Beate Karlsson, Florence-based cult brand AVAVAV uses deadstock and recycled fabrics to create collections that represent humor within the avant-garde. Karlsson studied fashion design at Parsons School of Design and later Central Saint Martins. Based in New York but born in Stockholm, Karlsson takes inspiration from the artistic experiences of her childhood. This inspiration manifests itself in playful ways, notably in AVAVAV’s unique footwear including rubber heels with toes and exaggerated furry boots. Though proven to be virality-prone, AVAVAV shapes its output around the availability of deadstock and unused fabrics from local warehouses and nearby fashion houses which limits its production numbers. The use of leftover materials lends itself to the brands aesthetic, creating expressive collections with eclectic pieces such as chokers made of recycled watches, oversized hoodie dresses with bedazzled phrases, and paneled outwear with contrasting patterns. Built around sustainability, AVAVAV injects play and fun into alternative fashion.