Fashion Forward: Eñaut Barruetabeña at 080 Barcelona

In this special RED-EYE coverage of 080 Barcelona Fashion, we bring you exclusive interviews with distinguished designers, while our photographer, Rosario Rex Di Salvo, ventures backstage to capture the essence of models and looks. Additionally, we've employed AI co-creation to produce a series of images that offer an oniric interpretation of the event, creating a unique visual experience. Enjoy!

Welcome to our exclusive interview with Eñaut Barruetabeña, the creative mind behind the fashion label EÑAUT. Born in Gipuzkoa and now based in Barcelona, Eñaut has carved a distinctive niche in the fashion world with his minimalist aesthetic and a steadfast commitment to sustainability. We had the pleasure of catching up with him at the vibrant 080 Barcelona Fashion, where he presented his much-anticipated seventh collection.

Eñaut's journey in fashion began at the prestigious IED (Istituto Europeo di Design), where he graduated in Fashion Design in 2017. Not long after stepping into the professional world, navigating through the realms of slow and fast fashion, Eñaut felt a compelling drive to forge his own path. This led to the birth of his own brand, EÑAUT, in September 2018, a move that quickly positioned him as a standout figure in the design community. His debut was nothing short of remarkable; within a year, he clinched the REC.0/080 Barcelona Fashion contest for Best Designer and made a memorable debut at 080 Barcelona Fashion in June 2019, where he was honored with the award for Best Emerging Design Collection.

Beyond the runway, Eñaut has also ventured into the academic sphere, bringing his industry insights and innovative approach to the classrooms of IED Barcelona. Since 2022, he has been involved in coordinating a master’s degree program and teaching, shaping the next generation of fashion designers with his expertise and visionary outlook.

In this interview, we delve into Eñaut’s design philosophy, his commitment to sustainable fashion practices, and his experiences transitioning from designer to educator. Join us as we explore the evolution of EÑAUT, a brand that reflects contemporary style and embodies the principles of ethical fashion, marking Eñaut Barruetabeña as a significant voice in today’s fashion industry.

Tell us about yourself and what inspired Eñaut and how you think it will influence the future of fashion and innovation?

I'm a Basque designer currently based in Barcelona. My journey in fashion design has been driven by a deep awareness of the environmental impact of the industry, much like other major sectors. Recognizing this, I strive to instill consciousness not only within myself but also through my work. Each Eñaut collection serves as a platform to raise awareness about pressing global issues, shedding light on catastrophic phenomena affecting our planet. I believe that by intertwining fashion with messages of sustainability and awareness, Eñaut can inspire a shift towards a more responsible and innovative future in the fashion industry.

Can you explain the innovative idea behind your latest collection and how it combines fashion and technology to set new trends?

With our latest collection marking the brand's tenth milestone, we took a reflective approach. Rather than adhering to a particular slogan or motif, we chose to embark on a journey of retrospection, celebrating life itself rather than advocating for any specific cause. This collection serves as a testament to the evolution and growth of the brand, showcasing our ability to blend timeless elegance with contemporary relevance.

Where do you find your groundbreaking ideas, and how do they help you mix traditional fashion with futuristic innovation?

My inspiration often stems from the mundane experiences of everyday life. As I delve deeper into the creative process, I find myself piecing together fragments of ideas until they form a cohesive vision for a new collection. By drawing from traditional fashion elements and infusing them with futuristic innovations, I aim to create designs that are both timeless and forward-thinking, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.

Describe your brand in three words that capture its essence.

Conscious, timeless, versatile.

What advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers who want to bring innovation to the industry? How can they blend fashion and technology effectively to create wearable designs for the future?

My advice to aspiring fashion designers is to never cease exploring and seeking inspiration. Stay attuned to the needs and challenges of the world around you, and use your creativity to address them innovatively. Blend fashion and technology thoughtfully, leveraging advancements in materials, production techniques, and wearables to create designs that not only look stunning but also serve a purpose in the future landscape of fashion. Keep pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and always prioritize sustainability and ethical practices in your work.

What is the core mission or vision of the brand, and how does it plan to impact the Spanish or global fashion scene?

The core mission of Eñaut is to lead by example in the fashion industry by demonstrating that sustainability and innovation can coexist harmoniously. We strive to impact the Spanish and global fashion scene by inspiring other brands to adopt more sustainable practices and embrace technological advancements in their designs. Through our commitment to conscious design and forward-thinking innovation, we aim to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for fashion worldwide.