Statistics estimate that up to 40% of plastics are only used once before being thrown away, with almost half of this figure mounting up in landfills. Berlin-based fashion designer Paula Votteler began her mission and label in 2023, determined to reframe how we view and manage plastic waste, in the best way she knew how: accessorizing.
Atelier Paula Votteler is a brand whose bags and garments quite literally turn trash into treasure. Every piece is intricately handmade in Paula’s studio, transforming plastic bottles, bags, netting, beads and seashells into works of wearable art. With some bags taking up to 100 hours to create, this is a small label that knows the meaning of true dedication to its craft.
This month, we sit down with Paula to learn more about her synonymous brand, exploring her affinity for unconventional production and materials. She shares her passion for an evolving sustainable output, sources of creative inspiration and a certain shell bag that made a viral mark in the online fashion space.
Hi, I'm Paula, 26 years old, and I'm studying fashion design in Berlin. I always wanted to become a fashion designer, but after school, I didn't have the courage and pursued a Master's in Packaging Technology instead. That program focused heavily on recycling and sustainability, but during the COVID pandemic, I realized that I wanted my life to be filled with creativity and fashion. Since then, I’ve been working on my projects every spare second, applied to study fashion design (and got accepted), and started my own small brand.
Why is it important for you to upcycle waste products?
Nowadays, it should be important to everyone. I’ve always been interested in it and find so much more joy in creating something beautiful from waste or used materials.
Your creations are unique in every aspect - where do you find inspiration when designing?
I get asked this question a lot, and honestly, I don't really know how to answer it because the ideas just come to me. I find inspiration almost everywhere and in everything, and I prefer to work with things that surround me or somehow find their way into my life.
We have to ask about the famous abalone shell bag! It generated over 9 million views and counting on your IG - and for good reason. Could you share the process of bringing this stunning piece to life?
Ever since I can remember, I've been searching for abalone shells on vacation with my mom. Even as a little child, I always felt the need to create something more out of the things I found (shells, sea glass, stones, etc.) rather than just collecting them. The shells had been lying around for years, and one night the idea came to me to incorporate them into an embroidery. Whenever ideas come to me at night, I can hardly sleep because I get so excited. I never would have expected it to be so well-received, as I do find the final result a bit kitschy.
Are there any other waste products you want to innovatively incorporate in future designs?
I was just on vacation and found a lot of sea glass on the beach. I’m definitely planning to create something with that soon :) I’m also currently collecting shampoo bottles from myself and those around me because they often have pretty colors, and I want to make something out of them. Additionally, I’m gathering gold-foiled cardboard (like the packaging from smoked salmon or desserts) and already have a few ideas for those!
Which of your pieces have you been most proud to create?
My first bag made from plastic bottles (blue Solan de Cabras bottles). The idea just came to me, it worked out perfectly on the first try, and it's truly unique.
What does the future of Atelier Paula Votteler look like?
I'm very optimistic. I hope that people will continue to follow my journey and stay interested in my work. I also hope that I’ll soon manage to set up an online shop.
