FASHION
Unveiling the Influencers: Exclusive Interviews Across Diverse Industries
Writer
Yana Karnaukhova
As we enter the new year, we adhere to the idea of recognizing influential creative people in the world of fashion, art, and their amazing achievements. This year is the first for the beginning of coverage of interesting, multifaceted personalities and their fascinating stories of formation.
And we believe in the power of creativity and its ability to challenge and inspire in both good and difficult times.
Maria Drobyshevskaya
My personal style didn’t develop overnight; like many others, it went through a series of experiments and explorations. However, it wasn’t until I moved to Paris that my style truly took shape. The bohemian French environment, filled with new acquaintances, my work in an art gallery, and my time in a symphony orchestra, had a profound influence on me.
In Paris, I discovered the beauty of combining clothes from different styles and eras. I learned to choose understated colors with contrasting textures, effortlessly pairing vintage jackets with sneakers from the latest collections. I aimed to achieve an effortless sophistication, devoid of unnecessary accessories but brimming with charm.
When crafting my style, I gravitate towards neutral colors such as black, brown, and a touch of white. I always strive to incorporate a touch of carelessness and masculinity into my outfits. I adore coats, sweaters with a hint of a masculine touch, caps paired with jackets, and distinct footwear. Despite having a minimal wardrobe, I enjoy experimenting with contrasting textures, like silk and wool or fluffy sweaters with leather accents. I prefer to blend elements from different stylistic directions to create a cohesive outfit that doesn’t scream for attention. As for accessories, I tend to favor larger pieces, such as caps (which are a personal passion of mine), bags, scarves, and sunglasses. My main principle is to feel comfortable in any ensemble and to exude confidence and poise. If I ever have the slightest doubt, I simply change into another outfit.
Drawing inspiration from my cultural background, I hail from a small town in Khakassia called Abakan. The Khakass people have their own unique culture and language, and their traditional clothing is a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns, and ornate finishes. As a child, I was captivated by the elegance of long, flowing dresses worn by women and the impeccable fit of dark suits on men. Perhaps, it was during those early experiences that I developed a fondness for straight and elongated silhouettes.
In my present life, I find inspiration in the people I encounter on the streets. And now during our interwiev in a cozy café opposite the Pantheon, I occasionally steal glances at the fashionistas of the Latin Quarter. People-watching in Paris offers an endless source of creative ideas, which I happily incorporate into my own wardrobe. Currently, the style of Marine Vacth, a French actress, resonates deeply with me. She effortlessly combines masculine pieces that beautifully contrast with her feminine appearance.
As an avid consumer of vintage clothing and an advocate for sustainable fashion, I find solace in the increasing number of people embracing environmentally friendly attitudes towards style. The fashion industry often promotes excessive consumption, tempting us to replicate the latest trends. However, in this era of global economic and environmental crises, I believe it is crucial to learn to work with what we already have. We should not hesitate to delve into our grandmothers’ closets to discover a stunning stole or clutch from the 70s. Taking care of our beloved possessions ensures their longevity, and it is essential to prioritize quality and personal style over fleeting trends that may even tarnish our individuality.
Having one’s own style doesn’t mean abandoning experimentation or perpetually looking the same. Instead, it signifies the ability to make thoughtful choices while staying true to oneself.
Anna Polovinkina
Initially, my goal was not to become a model, I planned to be an artist! I remember practicing portraits from photographs and being subscribed to various photographers, among whose works I found references for myself. One day I saw an ad that one of my favorite photographers, Anvar Norov, was looking for an illustrator who would redraw his photos. I was thinking: “That’s exactly what I’m doing!” Having dared, I wrote to him, but it didn’t come to drawings – I was invited to shoot, the photos turned out very beautiful! This is how my modeling and artistic path began – a little later I entered an art university.
Further, I traveled a little for work, but I am always happy to shoot on site. Every time I notice a different approach to work, a different rhythm, my own local jokes – I like to take an observant position, there are so many things you can notice for yourself!
And I also love my job for the opportunity to create, create, and find new solutions. Meeting talented and inspiring people is a great value to me! As well as a free schedule! This pleasant opportunity to break into an unplanned trip warms my soul.
Regarding my style, it is difficult for me to talk about personal style, outside of work I do not deliberately seek to show my individuality through clothes or accessories. It is closer to me to express myself through lifestyle and thoughts, hobbies and creativity. It’s great when the appearance does not argue with the content and is rather a continuation, rather than the root cause.
But I love beautiful clothes, but those that don’t take on too much attention, but rather emphasize some beautiful individual characteristics. And all my favorite designers are my friends whose clothes or jewelry I wear, I’m very lucky and I’m surrounded by very talented people!
Ani Mikaberidze
I have a tendency to incorporate accent elements into my outfits, and I believe it stems from my childhood. Watching my mother get dressed was always a source of fascination for me. I would often rummage through her wardrobe, trying to find something that would fit me. While I didn’t always imitate her style directly, she undoubtedly laid the foundation for my own personal taste.
There’s something captivating about a monochrome ensemble with a vibrant focal point. Whether it’s a pocket square or a bright t-shirt peeking out from under a jacket, I am drawn to these eye-catching details. I also have an affinity for small, colorful accessories. It just occurred to me that my mother adores delicate, beautiful handkerchiefs, using them as accessories. When we created our brand of handkerchiefs, I hadn’t consciously connected it to her influence, but subconsciously, it must have left a lasting impression on me.
In the ever-changing world of fashion, I believe maintaining authenticity and staying true to oneself is of utmost importance. It’s not about blindly chasing trends, but rather about wearing what makes you feel confident and comfortable. This is the key to a personal style that stands the test of time.
When it comes to incorporating vibrant elements into an outfit, I can’t quite put it into words—it’s more of a feeling. I strive for a sense of balance and coherence. It’s about creating a holistic style that feels harmonious and true to my individuality.
By reimagining the existing text, I aimed to capture the essence of your thoughts and experiences in a more eloquent and engaging manner. I hope this revised version conveys your message beautifully. If you have any further requests or would like additional assistance, please don’t hesitate to let me know.
Kristina Galko
Avant-garde style is a concept that includes a wide range of elements. For me, the avant-garde style embodies timelessness, when the clothes in a person’s wardrobe remain relevant and significant in different historical periods. The design code embedded in these garments ensures their timeless appeal. Style for me serves as a means of communication, allowing me to express myself in various situations. Every morning, looking through my calendar and list of upcoming appointments, I choose outfits that reflect the appropriate level of formality, gentleness or boldness.
Moreover, in my eyes, the avant-garde style embodies integrity. It goes beyond clothes and covers perfumes, voice, movements, literary choices, habitat, leisure, and even musical preferences. All these aspects combine to form a single whole representing an avant-garde way of thinking. Going beyond the generally accepted norms, this style is enriched by its external attributes.
For me, a striking example of avant-garde fashion as a real performance is the Carol Christian Poell show, where the models just floated on the river. Performance is an integral part of the fashion industry. In the post-pandemic world, most brands have realized the decline in interest in traditional runway shows and redirected their efforts to create exciting video screenings. Saint Laurent went to the desert, Celine explored the Gothic castle, and Jacmus staged shows among the fields of Provence. Fashion shows have gone beyond the usual pavilions.
Among my favorite brands, Ann Demeulemeester stands out in particular. Her influence is obvious in my personal style. I also appreciate the artistic essence of designers like John Alexander Skelton, Ziggy Chen, Uma Wang, Julius, who adhere to a dark aesthetic. As for Russian designers, I warmly support my friends from 139DEC, Wildhorn and YTN#7.
In addition to the ongoing development of avant-garde fashion, I am currently intrigued by the fashion change taking place in Russia. This transformation, although forced, proved effective. Brands are now focusing on self-identification and exploring cultural codes around us that were previously overlooked. It is interesting to watch how events will develop. A simple imitation of well-known brands will not be able to fill the void, since Russian brands do not have the same resources and capabilities. Therefore, everyone should strive to find their own distinctive voice and intonation.
As well as exhibitions, they are a performance and a reflection of the present time period. One of them was the Anselm Kiefer exhibition at the Palazzo Ducale in Venice. Venice holds a special place in my heart, perhaps being one of the most important places on the planet for me. Although some may find it outdated, I still see myself as a hopeless neo-romantic. Inspiration, in my opinion, plays a key role in life, moving us forward and allowing us to perceive the passage of time. I don’t mean just the muse, although it also matters, but rather the force that makes us aware of the passage of time.
Goucha
From an early age, I paid much attention to my clothing choices. Sometimes I attribute it to my mother’s influence, while other times I wonder if it’s just a natural disposition. It wasn’t just about fashion for me; I was curious about the reasons behind every woman’s outfit choices. Why did the heroine in a movie dress a certain way, and how did it reflect her character? I would watch fashion magazines and music videos with a sense of fascination, and this interest has stayed with me until now. It’s not just about the aesthetics of the 80s and 90s, but rather the transition from art to commercialization. While documentaries about fashion have been revisited countless times, it’s important to note that clothing can be explored beyond the realm of mere fabric. I have always been captivated by the personal and individual expression of fashion, rather than the artistic aspect.
I find inspiration within myself, allowing my own thoughts to guide me each morning and evening. I observe every person I encounter with a passionate eye, not with the intention of imitating them, but rather to gather signals that indicate we are all engaged in our own unique journeys. It’s not necessary to name specific designers or focus on the most popular ones. We can quietly appreciate the work of an artist, even if they made mistakes in the past. Each step they take is a testament to their strength and triumph. How can one not admire that? When a masterpiece is created, I take the time to admire, contemplate, and nod my approval. I truly believe in the vision of great masters, as their success is a result of a combination of talent, skilled craftsmanship, exceptional materials, and a well-established reputation. These factors hold importance. When purchasing an item, we don’t want it to be void of meaning or unattractive. The different epochs, geographical influences, or even our “lucky age” constantly shape and influence our fashion choices. While some may not feel a connection to specific eras, their individuality becomes paramount, aligning with their own unique concepts.
The entire 20th century intrigues me, but the years between 1910 and 1930 hold a special place in my heart. They exude a sense of honesty and desperation. The 70s, during the Brezhnev era, also capture my fascination, particularly because they were filled with people deeply in love with life. And then there are the sleepless and vibrant 90s. However, as fashion evolves, it becomes more commercial, mathematical, and logical. Yet, my interest lies in the analysis and understanding of these changes.
A person of today is always more intriguing than their past self. The transformation of our outward appearance should be driven by our personal interests and emotions, encompassing a global perspective. We are the authors of our own stories and histories. As long as we embrace change, we remain alive, utilizing fashion as a powerful tool for communication – with others and, perhaps most importantly, with ourselves.
Viktoriya Måzurova
Growing up, my mother’s passion for sewing influenced me greatly. Her atelier became my sanctuary, where I immersed myself in fabrics and magazines. Together, we created countless outfits for special occasions, like the bright pink suit and the luxurious purple dress for my 11th-grade graduation.
Years later, captivated by fabrics in a store, I invested all my money and collaborated with my mother to sew my first kimono. Though my artistic pursuits briefly shifted to ceramics, I rediscovered my love for kimonos a year ago. These garments have become my favorites, with their elegant length, fitted silhouette, and graceful long sleeves. I find solace in their modesty and versatility, effortlessly pairing them with jeans and a T-shirt or dressing them up with sneakers or heels. To add excitement, I’ve even designed accessories like beaded belts and aprons.
My heart also belongs to fur slippers and bags, as they bring a cozy warmth to my life in the Northern capital. Additionally, I am enamored by the fabrics themselves. Discovering a “divine roll” is a triumph, as it offers tactile pleasure and complex colors. Many of my kimonos share a similar cut, allowing the fabric to take center stage.
While I don’t avidly follow fashion trends or designers, I must admit a special fondness for Acne Studios and their SS21 show. The layering and flowing fabrics they showcased captivate me, and I’ve found myself revisiting their collections countless times. Jil Sander’s multi-layered nature shots also resonate with my love for simplicity and timelessness. Interestingly, I recently realized that 90% of the photos in my brand’s presentation were created by different individuals, serving as a testament to the mutual inspiration we share.
In my opinion, every item in one’s wardrobe should be cherished endlessly. Whether it’s the texture, color, or convenience, each piece holds its own significance. Even if it’s not the most practical choice, a beautiful fabric can be enough to earn a special place in my heart, even if it’s only worn for a few hours a year. Simple forms will always remain relevant, and I highly recommend including a couple of kimonos in one’s collection, as they never fail to evoke a sense of luxury.
In the realm of fashion, we will seek out those who possess an unparalleled sense of style, daring to redefine the very essence of what it means to be fashionable. Their creations will inspire us to embrace our individuality, to embrace the power of self-expression through clothing.
In the world of art, we will uncover the hidden gems, the visionaries whose brushstrokes and sculptural masterpieces have the ability to transport us to ethereal realms, evoking emotions and provoking thoughts that resonate deep within our souls.
Within the realm of design and architecture, we will celebrate the genius minds who shape our physical environments, weaving together functionality and aesthetic allure. Their innovative designs will continue to redefine the spaces we inhabit, creating harmonious landscapes that leave an indelible impression.
And in the world of beauty, we will honor researchers who use their knowledge to highlight the beauty inherent in every human being. Their transformative power will give us the opportunity to accept ourselves, to recognize the beauty that comes from within.
As we embark upon this new journey, let us remember the importance of nurturing and supporting these incredible talents. Let us embark on this journey hand in hand, united in our commitment to spotlight the extraordinary talents that shape our world.