Tracking Trends in Russian Fashion and Design

Russia is renowned for its rich history, culture and traditions – and fashion has long been at the heart of the nation’s culture. From Soviet-era utilitarian clothing to the vibrancy of modern Russian Designers on the catwalks of Moscow and Paris, style and fashion have featured in Russia’s history almost as long as it has existed.

What are the defining characteristics of Russian fashion and design, and how have these evolved over the years? What trends in fashion and design will we be seeing in the future?

Historical Fashion Design in Russia

Russian fashion and style is varied and unique. Clothing has always been heavily influenced by the culture and politics of the day, and Russian fashion has never been exempt from this. During the Soviet era of the 20th century, for example, outfits were uniforms or utilitarian – grey, loose-fitting clothes designed for practicality rather than style, reflecting the Communist regime. However, during the 1980s a wave of young Russian designers emerged, experimenting with fabrics and styles to create a look and feeling distinctly different to their predecessors. The ‘New Russians’ re-invented Russian style and created a vibrant and modern identity for Russian fashion.
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The Continuing Impact of Communism on Fashion

The legacy of the Soviet era continues to influence Russian fashion and design, even in the 21st century. Clothing is still often based on form and function over style, in a nod to the trend of the past. The contrast between this minimalist style and the more vibrant, adorned trends of other countries – often referred to as ‘Eastern chic’ – makes the look unique, and has inspired a range of Russian Designers.

21st Century Russian Fashion and Design

The last two decades have seen several major advancements in Russian fashion and design. Considering the legacy of Soviet-style plain utilitarian clothing, the growth of the fashion industry in Russia has been remarkable. Heavily influenced by the glamor and luxury of the pre-revolution era, Russian fashion is now a byword for ostentatiousness, glamour and excitement. Designers such as Ruslan Baginskiy, Olga Sorokina and Daria monkanova have reinvented Russian fashion and taken it to the catwalks of Paris, Milan and New York.

Future Trends in Russian Fashion and Design

The future of Russian fashion is likely to remain a balance between humble clothing retaining the feel of Soviet styling, and glamorous, internationally-renowned designs – characterised by brightly-colored fabrics, intricate embroidery and impressive detailing. Reference points of the past – such as Russian folk costumes and traditional clothing – are likely to continue being important influences on the look of Russian fashion in the future. Russian designers are also increasingly looking to international trends, giving Russian fashion a truly global feel.

Conclusion

From its humble origins in 1970s Soviet-style utilitarian clothing, Russian fashion has come a long way to become a force to be reckoned with in the global fashion industry. Combining traditional Russian styling with the vibrancy of modern fashion, Russia is now producing some of the world’s most exciting fashion and design.
Marina Reich @ Unsplash