Words by Gaziza Omirzak.
On November 1st, NOM!NAL London once again shattered expectations at the Blue Marlin Ibiza London, blending fashion with party energy in a way that asked: Can fashion be more than just clothing? Can it be an expression of individuality? As guests walked in, cocktails in hand, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation — this was no ordinary runway show; it was an experience, a celebration, a declaration that fashion transcends mere fabric.
From the moment the first model stepped onto the runway, clad in a burgundy velvet sleeveless top, the room was filled with an electrifying energy. This look redefined casual elegance, featuring wide-legged pants that flared slightly at the bottom. It exuded a sense of ease yet shimmered with luxury — glittering sunglasses added a playful touch, staying true to NOM!NAL’s signature style of being rebellious yet undeniably chic.
Perhaps the boldest moment of the show came when a model, draped in a black jumpsuit with sheer accents, took centre stage. Topping off the outfit with a flamboyant red wide-brimmed hat and matching red boots, they were a vision of audacity, a fashion moment that could stop traffic — literally. This wasn’t just fashion for the sake of style; it was fashion as an act of defiance, a statement that said: “I’m here, and I’m owning it.” The heart-shaped prop that trailed behind the model only added to the theatricality, as though the brand was making it clear — this is about love too, love for fashion and love for self-expression.
The show’s outfits mixed rugged and refined styles, from an oversized plaid jacket tailored for luxury to loose trousers and street-inspired pieces like graphic tees and red balaclavas, transforming casual staples into rebellious statements. The styling, led by art director and fashion stylist Teniola Akinola, played a key role in shaping the collection’s visual narrative—merging bold theatricality with punk-infused elegance. NOM!NAL’s collection wasn’t just fashion; it was a challenge to norms and a nod to British street culture’s anti-establishment roots. The integration of Alevtina Caravona’s contemporary artwork added another layer to the presentation, with each piece telling its own story yet contributing to a larger narrative of individuality and rebellion.
Behind the wild and boundary-pushing designs is a brand driven by passion and creativity. NOM!NAL London was founded by Krisztina Kalman and Sean Solomon — two individuals from different backgrounds united by their shared belief that fashion should be a voice of rebellion. The brand, which launched in 2022, draws inspiration from iconic British subcultures such as MODs, New Romantics, and Punks, weaving those influences into a collection that’s as bold as it is diverse.
Krisztina Kalman, the brand’s CEO, brought her background in management consulting and her MBA from NYU Stern to the table, blending her business acumen with her love for art and fashion. Her vision for Nominal has always been one of inclusivity, a platform that embraces diversity and personal expression. Meanwhile, Sean Solomon, a former DJ from Southern Africa, took on the role of Creative Director. His approach to fashion is deeply personal — he views clothing as a powerful form of self-expression. Together, they have created a brand that speaks to those who dare to be different, who use fashion as a way to challenge the status quo.
From its humble beginnings in 2022, NOM!NAL has grown rapidly. Despite lacking formal fashion education, both founders have successfully built a brand that has captured the attention of fashion insiders and rebels alike. They’ve embraced the learning curve, developing collections and managing the complexities of building a business, all while staying true to their vision. Their main line, NOM!NAL London, is known for its avant-garde designs, while NM!NL, their more accessible line, ensures everyone can partake in the rebellious spirit of the brand.
NOM!NAL’s audacious ethos took the stage in September 2024 during their showcase at London Fashion Week, unveiling the “Life in the School of Defiance” collection. Inspired by the idiosyncrasies of British public school culture, NOM!NAL turned traditional notions of academia upside down, transforming stiff school uniforms into bold fashion statements. The collection melded blazers and ties with studded leather jackets and 3D-printed latex, resulting in a lineup that married elegance with a punk edge.
Models paraded from a hotel lobby into the streets of London, trailing plumes of red smoke behind them like a rebellion set ablaze. Each piece, from prom-inspired evening wear to reimagined loungewear, was infused with a daring punk twist. Upon reaching Piccadilly Circus, the models struck poses on the iconic steps, their silhouettes stark against the swirling red haze — a powerful visual that captured the essence of rebellion.
“Life in the School of Defiance” wasn’t merely a collection; it was a clarion call, challenging conventional standards of beauty and conformity. It encouraged individuals to embrace their authentic selves, flaws and all, celebrating the freedom of self-expression as an act of rebellion. Drawing on British subcultures, Nominal cemented its position as one of the most thrilling contemporary brands on the London fashion scene.
As NOM!NAL London continues to grow, it remains dedicated to empowering creativity and individuality. With a constantly evolving style and a commitment to collaborating with artists, NOM!NAL is more than just a fashion label — it’s a community. Looking ahead to 2024, the brand aims to expand its reach, building a loyal following of customers, collaborators, and investors who share their passion for creative rebellion.
In an industry that often prioritizes conformity, NOM!NAL stands as a beacon for those who refuse to fit in. Isn’t fashion about challenging the ordinary and embracing what makes us unique? NOM!NAL offers fashion that’s not just bold but defiant. Whether it’s a velvet top on a nightclub runway or a studded jacket in the streets of London, NOM!NAL continues to break the mold. Fashion isn’t just about what you wear — it’s about who you are. Will you embrace your individuality and join the rebellion?
