Ionel started off as a post-war Soviet factory but now has its own brand, manufactures for big European fashion brands, and supports local fashion designers. Photo by Iurie Gandrabura.
“All this goes to Germany,” says Inga Gavrilița, head of engineering at Ionel, pointing to dozens of trousers hanging neatly on racks. The factory also produces for French and Italian brands. Collaborations with these renowned labels helped Ionel survive the chaotic early 1990s after the Soviet Union collapsed, explains director Tamara Luchian.
Luchian has been with Ionel for 52 years, starting as a seamstress and working her way up to director. “If I didn’t love my job, I wouldn’t have lasted this long,” she says. “I grew up in the countryside, where my parents taught me the value of hard work.”
She hopes all of Europe will recognise Ionel and the hardworking women behind its success.
A Kardashian wearing Moldovan boots
Another rising Moldovan fashion star is Fidan Novruzova, a semi-finalist for the prestigious LVMH Prize for emerging designers—the highest honor a Moldovan designer has received to date.
Born and raised in Moldova with Azerbaijani roots, Novruzova is best known for her rough, square-toed boots that add height and effortless style. Her creations have been worn by celebrities like Katy Perry, Bella Hadid, Kourtney Kardashian, and Chloë Sevigny.
The fashion world has embraced her distinctive aesthetic. Nylon magazine described her designs as “familiar, yet slightly removed from the norm, with an oddity that resonates with fashion-forward women.”
In 11th grade, Novruzova decided to pursue a career in fashion. “I wasn’t very good at it, nor did I know much about it,” she laughs. “But I was very driven.”
Her secret? A “healthy delusion” that drives her forward, balanced by a backup plan that keeps her grounded. Starting her business in Moldova gave her a unique edge. “If I’d started in Paris or London, I don’t think I could have set it all up. In Moldova, I can easily manufacture my clothing, thanks to the big factories like Ionel.”
A Japanese favourite
In an old building in Chișinău, the small fashion studio of OK Kino is creating waves. A Japanese fashion journalist, Elie Inoue, praised the brand in WWD Japan, describing its designs as “minimalist and wearable, with a high level of pattern technology and a neutral aesthetic”.
The studio is run by partners Darya Golneva and Denis Caunov, who often work with silk. After living in Italy, Darya returned to Moldova to be with Denis. Together, they secured government funding to purchase basic equipment and launched their first runway collection in Georgia last year.
Their pieces, described by Darya as “a bit avant-garde but wearable”, are versatile enough for both daily wear and festive events with the right accessories.
“Childhood is a big influence for us,” she explains. “In Moldova, there’s so much folk inspiration to draw from.” Starting their business in Moldova allowed them to avoid the bureaucratic red tape they might have faced elsewhere.
It was Darya Golneva’s dream to have a small studio in an old building. Photo by Marian Männi.
The future of Moldovan fashion
Moldovan fashion is having a moment.
With its rich history, skilled artisans, and bold young designers, the country is stepping confidently into the global spotlight.
From celebrities in Hollywood to fashionistas in Japan, people are beginning to notice: Moldova is more than ready to make its mark on the world stage.
This content has been produced in collaboration with a partner organisation through our Global Visibility Programme. Our programme helps companies and organisations boost their digital presence and strengthen the thought leadership of their experts. Find out more here.
Source link : http://www.bing.com/news/apiclick.aspx?ref=FexRss&aid=&tid=67a66c86703c40f3b5eb55d2b996573e&url=https%3A%2F%2Femerging-europe.com%2Fcommunity-content%2Fmade-in-moldova-europes-biggest-secret-fashion-powerhouse%2F&c=14527194112851810346&mkt=en-us
Author :
Publish date : 2025-02-05 05:44:00
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.