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Impact of global eco crisis felt in fashion industry

Arts & Culture 8/7/2009 9:05:00 AM

By Adeeb Al-Sayed (with photos) MOSCOW, Aug 7 (KUNA) -- The global economic crisis has spared no sector its impact, and the fashion and design industry seems to be no exception. Besario Razmadze, a rising designer, tells KUNA that many designers have turned to producing mass-production clothing instead of their unique and classy pieces, driven by the drop in demand on designer items. "Fashion design is a high form of art that requires stability, harmony and peace in one's life, in order to produce items of beauty and good taste," he explains. "My philosophy lies in bringing out the beauty in women, and I am keen to bring these women happiness through fashion." He notes that some classes continue to demand unique clothing items, unlike those found in stores, despite the harshness of the economic crisis. The color black features strongly in Razmadze's work, and he says that he is deeply influenced by the predominantly-black folklore dresses of Georgians, from whom he descends. However, he asserts his efforts to merge Russian and Georgian fashion lines, and refuses any comparison between his work and that of well-known fashion designers. He describes Russia as the "land of dreams," and notes that although he is of Georgian origin, this has not hampered his work and his aspirations have been realized here. Razmadze says there are much prospects for Russian designs that he hopes will be realized in the near future, adding that there is a lot more to offer than the stereo-typical fur coats and long winter boots. He also notes the need to invest in the Russian fashion industry "because it highlights the beautiful aspects of people's lives and their individuality, " adding that fashion will remain an interest for people who seek to distinguish themselves from others. Fashion critics believe that Razmadze seeks to set himself apart from his rivals in the industry by adding modern touches to his medieval-inspired designs. The designer refuses to participate in conventional fashion shows and seeks to find a new concept for shows that accentuate the beauty expressed in his work. Among Razmadze's designs is a 60-kilogram black dress that brings to mind the clothes of nobility in medieval Europe. Critics predict that Razmadze's name will soon shine in the world of fashion, driven by his unrelenting interest in engaging in new challenges, regardless of the risks. (end) as.ema KUNA 070905 Aug 09NNNN