LJFW - A S(LOVE)NIAN LETTER TO FASHION WEEK

Last week Ljubljana kicked off the 13th edition of its highly anticipated fashion week (11 - 15.04.22). Following a two year hiatus due to the unprecedented pandemic, Slovenia’s capital proved not only why we have missed events oh so much but why Ljubljana deserves a permanent place on any fashion map.

The LJFW countdown before hand-made and genderless Slovenian brand ‘Made in Anselma’ opened Ljubljana Fashion Week.

Returning with its contemporary spirit and urban chic, the latest edition of LJFW had a clear focus on sustainability as the ticket to a brighter tomorrow. From roundtable discussions, magical and eco-conscious fabrics floating down the ‘WITCHES SISTERHOOD BY JANJA VIDEC’ runway to the earth-inspired prints and tones of Slovenian label ‘DRAŽ’, that closed LJFW in the most mesmerising fashion, the audience was reminded that we must protect our precious planet. Sustainability was a fitting theme and one that was echoed through the pedestrianised centre of Europe’s green capital. 

Held over 4 days, LJFW showcased over 16 designers hailing from various territories including Hungary, Serbia, Slovenia and the UK to a bustling audience featuring writers and international editors from FAULT to Forbes magazine. A particular highlight came from the onslaught of craftsmanship presented by the students of ‘Fakulteta za dizajn’ and the ‘University of Ljubljana’s department of fashion & textile design’. This proved to be a showcase that highlighted a culmination of inspirations and the cultural and contemporary scene of Ljubljana’s youth as an emerging generation we should all be watching. Providing the perfect backdrop to the outdoor student shows was Cukrarna art gallery, a must-see for anyone visiting Ljubljana. Arching over the shows was a bridge constructed by Slovenian icon and architect Jože Plečnik, who this year is celebrated on what would have been his 150th birthday. The level of international talent that dominated LJFW came as no surprise from a country that can be credited for pioneers such as Plečnik, whose innovative architecture reminds us that this vibrant country is no stranger to colour, form, texture and modernity.

LJFW read as a triumph, full of home-proud designers looking towards evolution, technology and futuristic design. The most overwhelming feeling was one of joy, collaboration and supporting each other’s growth, perhaps best displayed in the cutest fashion show to date presented by ‘Baby Centre Slovenija’ where Ljubljana’s next top models slayed the catwalk.The fun also continued at the ‘KISS THE FUTURe’ show where we were treated to an interactive and playful interpretation of ‘mad max’s’ survival generation.

Standout shows came from I.DEA PR favourites JU-NNA, who gave everyone in attendance a masterclass in print and the Japanese tradition of Shibori during their LJFW debut. Slovenian designer Jan Brovč known for their penchant for glitz and glam once again proved it is their world and we’re just living in it. LJFW regular and menswear designer Petja Zorec demonstrated that she can indeed do anything with a seasonless collection that surprisingly featured womenswear amongst her signature trousers and effortlessly cutting edge creations. Independent and anti-fashion label M.FICTION provided a mystical and engaging commentary on rebellious fashion, whilst previous Fashion Scout SEE winner NEO DESIGN marked a period of maturity by combining the past with their visionary designs for the new age.

Now we just eagerly wait to see what the next instalment of LJFW has to offer!