Exploring Kazakhstan’s Unique Fashion Identity at Global Fashion Assembly’s Sandwich of Identity Presentation
Local Designers Showcase Cultural Identity at Global Fashioning Assembly 2024 in Astana
Local designers in Astana recently took center stage at the Global Fashioning Assembly 2024 during the Sandwich of Identity presentation. The event, supported by the Creative Industries Alliance of Qazaqstan, the Born Nomad business incubator, and the TransforNation Public Foundation, provided a platform for these designers to showcase their unique perspectives on cultural identity through fashion and art.
The Global Fashioning Assembly 2024 brought together 20 creative collectives from 26 countries to exchange ideas and explore the intersection of traditional and contemporary influences on national identity. In Kazakhstan, discussions centered on the impact of post-colonial and post-Soviet traumas on shaping national identity, and how local designers are navigating the balance between preserving cultural heritage and embracing global trends.
Designers like Alina Abilda, founder of the JAYLAN jewelry brand, emphasized the importance of incorporating Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage into modern designs. She highlighted the symbolic significance of traditional Turkic forms and symbols in jewelry, which serve as a tribute to the country’s rich history while remaining modern and stylish.
Aizhan Zhuzbay, another designer, focused on Kazakhstan’s craftsmanship and rich cultural past as a source of inspiration for contemporary designs. She highlighted the growing interest in national clothing and traditional decorative arts, which have gained global recognition and success on the international stage, showcasing Kazakhstan’s unique identity.
The event also featured designers like Aika Alemi, Zhanna Assanova, and Aliya Zhamantayeva, who each brought their own unique perspectives on blending traditional elements with modern design. These designers have successfully positioned themselves on the global fashion and art scene, drawing inspiration from Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage to create innovative and unique pieces.
Kamilya Suleimenova, a felt-based designer and founder of the SHIMAI brand, shed light on the challenges faced by emerging artists in Kazakhstan. Despite these challenges, Suleimenova continues to push boundaries in her designs, teaching felt design and advocating for a more inclusive and diverse art community in Kazakhstan.
The Sandwich of Identity presentation served as a thought-provoking platform for dialogue on the evolution of Kazakh fashion and art while retaining its unique cultural identity. The event, which was also streamed online, allowed for a wider audience to participate and engage in discussions on the future of Kazakhstan’s creative industries.Overall, the Global Fashioning Assembly 2024 provided a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse world of Kazakh fashion and art, showcasing the innovative spirit of local designers and their commitment to preserving cultural heritage while embracing the future.
