Moscow Fashion Week, held in conjunction with the BRICS+ Fashion Summit (August 28 to September 02, 2025), transcended a typical showcase of trends to become a powerful celebration of cultural identity. The event, spanning iconic locations like Zaryadye Park and the historic Kitaygorodskaya Wall, drew a global audience eager to witness the intersection of tradition and innovation.

Tradition reimagined

At the heart of the week was a profound appreciation for Russian heritage. This was most evident in the "Cultural Code" showcase, a special presentation by Wildberries that brought together six designers. This segment served as a microcosm of a larger trend, with designers transforming classic regional costumes into contemporary, wearable art.

The source of inspiration

Designer Masha Andrianova's collection, "Istok" ("The Source"), offered a deeply personal interpretation of this theme. Inspired by her great-grandmother's writings, Andrianova created a line of flowing maxi dresses and tiered pinafores. The subtle layering and pared-back tailoring evoked a sense of intimate nostalgia, proving that the most profound designs often stem from personal history. Folklore and fairytales PiC-3 Victoria Tsiganova took a more direct, fairytale approach, specializing in the "à la russe" aesthetic. Her collection featured coats and denim jackets adorned with traditional motifs and Khokhloma-style painting. Topping off the looks with elaborate fur hats, Tsiganova transported the audience into a vivid, storied world of Russian folklore.

Legacy in every stitch

Collaborations between designers and historic textile mills highlighted the enduring legacy of Russian craftsmanship. The collection "The Shuya Bird" from Novikova DSGN and Shuya Textiles incorporated traditional patterns, including a recreated Baranov chintz. Similarly, Shuyskie Sitsy, a brand dedicated to reviving 19th-century prints, presented authentic sarafans and modernized folk attire, demonstrating how historical techniques can breathe new life into contemporary fashion.

A forward-looking heritage

This focus on heritage was not a nostalgic look backward but a vibrant, forward-looking movement. By reinterpreting their cultural codes, these designers affirmed that the deepest well of inspiration can often be found in the stories and traditions of home, ensuring Russian heritage continues to evolve on the global stage.