11 Brands To Watch: Ljubljana Fashion Week 2023:

09.10.2023 - 15:21 / forbes.com / Art

The 14th edition of Ljubljana Fashion Week in the stunning new creative hub, Center Rog, a former bicycle factory, was a brilliant showcase of 30 Eastern European (mostly Slovenian) established and emerging designers, including some interesting collaborations and comebacks. Open to the public, LJFW is an independent fashion platform, headed by the super energetic Melinda Rebrek who says “in addition to having a focus on sustainability, Ljubljana Fashion Week embraces all forms of creativity with joy and pride, showing a diverse range of aesthetics and trends, from avant-garde couture to streetwear chic.” Here is a selection of some of the most interesting brands on this year’s catwalk, in Slovenia’s charming capital.

1.M.Fiction

One of Eastern Europe’s most loved designer brands opened this edition of Ljubljana Fashion Week. Sister duo Mateja Lukač and Mia Aleksandra Lukač create designs that are always eye-catching, if not downright flamboyant. Contemporary, playful, rebellious, real standout pieces on the catwalk were an oversized overcoat and trousers, both in silver metallic.

2.Ana Jelenic

A well-established fashion designer in Slovenia, Ana Jelinic’s ready-to-wear womenswear features natural fabrics with gentle colors and attractive circular graphics on some pieces. Based in a small town near Ljubljana, her very wearable designs can be found in her own shop and online.

3.MC X Medle

This brightly colored, vibrant collection, a collaboration between Anja Medle and Tia Krašovec, was made exclusively from recycled men's clothes. Designed to flatter every body shape, the collection is playful and rich in colors, patterns and cuts, with a nod to the 1980s. And livening up the runway show even more was the accompanying performance by popular Slovenian singer Masayah.

4.Kiss the Future

Tanja Pađan’s coloful gender neutral streetwear brand is influenced by science fiction, contemporary culture and experimental video. Kiss the Future’s unique, colorful fashion pieces are made in small runs, all from deadstock fabric so any purchase is in effect a limited edition work of art. The wacky looks on the catwalk did not disappoint with their riot of colors, fabrics and designs.

5.Natasa Hrupic

Nataša Hrupic has run her own label since 2006, alongside teaching at the Department of Textiles, NTF, at University of Ljubljana. Navy and cream wool cape coats were standout looks in this award-winning Slovenian designer’s catwalk show.

6.Gacho Couture

One of the most highly anticipated returns to Slovenian fashion is longtime costume designer, Milan Gačanovič, with his new brand Gacho Couture. The thirteen made-to-order suits shown at LJBFW were not only lavish and ornate in design but genderless and ageless.