In our own ‘Rude Roots’ series, we dive into the lives and passions of the amazing people of our community. Recently we got in touch with the classy Harti from Germany and we spoke about her love for classy fashion, poloshirts, life in Hannover, her cats and music.
Introduction
Hey Hartkovski! Thank you for your time! How are you doing?
Hi 🙂 Thanks for reaching out to me. I never felt better – life is really good right now!
You live in Hannover right? How’s life over there?
Hannover is famous for being Germanys most boring city – I’m glad people still believe it, keeps our rents low!
Daily life
What keeps you busy during your daily life?
I work in two very differents jobs. During the week I commute to Berlin for my main office job and I spend some weekends in my old student job I never quit, as it’s still fun to work there. My settlement is being on the road as often as possible to visit friends, go on shows or on vacation as much as possible.
© Instagram of Hartkovsi
Alternative culture
How did you become involved in alternative culture?
1998, when I was 7 years old, my brothers friend gave us a copy of Die Ärzte – 13, still one of my favorite albums. I didn’t understand any of these lyrics at all but I kept listening and visitied my first concert when I was 14 years old, followed by my first With Full Force and Wacken when I was 16.
How would you call yourself? Punk, skin, alternative?
I prefer not to use any of these terms for myself.
Fashion
What’s your favourite outfit to wear?
You can’t beat a Fred Perry poloshirt with a skirt, fishnets, Tassel loafers and a coat or Harrington jacket.
Do you have a favourite Fred Perry poloshirt design or colour?
I prefer the G3600 in timeless colourways. I mostly wear a white one with black twin tipped collar and cuffs. When I’m in the mood for something more feminine, I always go for pieces of the Fred Perry x Amy Winehouse foundation.
© Instagram of Hartkovsi
What other brands do you also like?
Dr. Martens, George Cox, Aquascutum, GH Bass, Paraboot, Adidas, Burberry, Levi’s, Carhartt, New Balance.
Do you prefer shopping for your clothes in stores or online?
I love to take a browse around in stores, but in Hannover, stationary retail is unfortunately no option for me. Berlin offers more possibilities, but for subcultural women’s wear, Germany is not the best market. For me, UK is still the place to go! I try to be there at least twice a year. For second hand clothes in Germany I prefer homepages like Depop, Vinted, Sellpy, Vestaire Collective and Ebay.
© Instagram of Hartkovsi
What garment/item is missing in your wardrobe? Is there a dream-item you would like to own some day?
A classic brown sheepskin is still missing in my wardrobe…
Is there something lacking in the scene? Would you change something?
I’m not a fan of elitist groups that take themselves too serious / cool and don’t let others participate.
Shirt or poloshirt?
Poloshirt!
© Instagram of Hartkovsi
Cats or dogs?
I’m definitely a cat person. My two cats, Bettie and Blitz, are a Maine Coon / Birma mix. They live with me for 11 years. Can’t imagine being without them.
© Instagram of Hartkovsi
Boots or sneakers/shoes? Why?
Loafers, it’s comfortable and it suits my style best.
Personal beliefs
What should people think when they see you?
I was concerned about the impression I make for many years and I’m glad that I reached a point in life where I (mostly!) don’t give a scheiss anymore. People will judge you anyway, I don’t throw away any energy on this anymore.
© Instagram of Hartkovsi
What makes you happy?
Open minded people who create something themselves instead of just complaining and commenting. 🙂
What makes you angry?
Hypocrisy, jealousy, superficiality.
Music
What are your top 5 bands/artists?
The Bouncing Souls, Type O Negative, DxBxS, The The, Hans-A-Plast
What do you think about the local scene? Is it thriving or is there not much happening?
Despite the lack of shopping opportunities, Hannover performs very well when it comes to DIY punk and metal shows. I’m glad that we have a great community which is organising events and keeps the scene alive.
© Instagram of Hartkovsi
Message to the world
What message are you trying to spread to the world?
It’s more important than ever to raise your voice against facism, antisemitism, sexism, transphobia and homophobia.
That’s something we can’t agree more with Harti! Thank you so much for your time and keep doing what you are doing! Have a great day!
If you would like to support Harti please follow her on Instagram.
All content used in this article is shared with consent of the creator.