Inspired by the early 2000s, with its rebellious spirit, late-night parties, and the beginning of adolescence, DAGGER designer Luke Raine put into the brand all of the first experiences that a young soul can have —from a first kiss to heartbreak, first jobs, and cigarettes that taste so bitter and wrong the first time.
On the runway of DAGGER SS27, presented during Berlin Fashion Week in July 2026, Raine translated that feeling into the collection and almost transported the audience back to their teenage years.
Isn’t it impressive that even some of the things we regret doing when we were young and naïve, Luke, on the other hand, embraces as part of youth—the moment when you begin to understand what life ahead might have prepared for you and who you can become, despite of where you started?
At the same time, DAGGER continues to focus on growth and complexity, following these same characters as they discover their identities.
About the Brand
Founded in 2020, Berlin-based fashion label DAGGER holds an interesting story that leaves the viewer inspired and even more connected to the voice behind the clothes.
Luke Raine founded the brand after an unexpected job loss, when he was left with little more than three-hundread euro in government benefits and the determination to do something “on his own”.
“We wish you all the best..”
…with your
professional future and personal wellbeing.”
The ironic and impersonal sentence written in his dismissal letter became the key source of inspiration behind the brand’s creation.
Luke took the phrase “All the best” and transformed into iconic T-shirt Brand’s slogan.
Youth, Identity, Community and Transformation
The aesthetic of DAGGER was shaped during Luke’s teenage years in the north of Ireland, where money was tight, opportunities were scarce, and skateboarding became a way of surviving.
That is why DAGGER continues to explore and celebrate the themes of youth, identity, community and transformation.
Drawing inspiration from queer communities, working-class culture, subcultural movements and different backgrounds, the brand creates an emotional dialogue between individuality, self-expression and resilience.
DAGGER has grown into an independent international label stocked by leading retailers including Dover Street Market Paris, Antonioli and GR8 Tokyo.
Long-time collaborator Vans joined DAGGER once again to unveil a new series of customised Slip-Ons, reworked especially for the runway.
In a addition, what is also worth mentioning, the team shot the entire show exclusively on the iPhone 17 Pro.
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