The latest edition of Moldovan Brands Runway (MBR) AW24/25, themed “Cultural Rhythms,” wrapped up in style, merging Eastern European heritage with modern fashion design. Over the course of three days, the event featured 24 designers, 17 runway shows, 6 brand presentations, and 2 exclusive performances, weaving a narrative of tradition and modernity.
A Highlight of Creative Excellence
One of the most talked about moments of the event was the debut of young designer VYAZ., whose knitwear collection, created in collaboration with his mother, captivated the audience with its emotional depth and craftsmanship. His pieces, characterized by intricate textures and avant-garde shapes, immediately stood out as one of the most memorable collections of the season.
The runway also saw strong debuts from brands like SANNAT, which presented an unexpected fusion of streetwear and traditional craftsmanship, while established brands such as Ionel and Altezza by L. Storojuc dazzled with their mastery of silhouettes and textures. Altezza, in particular, garnered attention for its monochromatic pieces that played with structure and volume, creating a visual impact that resonated with the audience.
Thematic and Artistic Collaborations
The Cultural Rhythms theme was further explored through the work of DZHUS, the Ukrainian designer known for her multi-functional pieces that challenge conventional design norms. Her runway performance left a lasting impression, blending fashion with performance art, and bringing to life the transformative potential of clothing.
Another standout was Lunar Laboratories (RO), which delivered a high-energy, futuristic show filled with dynamic shapes, architectural cuts, and an exploration of texture. Their focus on sustainability and experimental materials positioned them as one of the more innovative brands of the season.
The serene and emotionally charged collection from OK KINO, presented at the Luceafărul Theatre, provided a moment of quiet reflection amid the excitement. The show, which took place in a historic cultural venue, was lauded for its elegance and was a favorite among both guests and media.
Industry and Audience Impact
MBR AW24/25 attracted a mix of local and international industry insiders, media, and influencers, further strengthening its global reach. Attendees included representatives from Vogue Germany, WWD Japan, and Polimoda, as well as Netflix, which covered portions of the event. The presence of the President of Moldova added value to an already influential lineup of shows. Local influencers and designers also made their mark, contributing to the dynamic energy that characterized the event.
Art Meets Fashion
This season’s Cultural Rhythms theme extended beyond the runway, with several artistic collaborations that merged visual art with fashion design. Altezza partnered with Moldovan artist Pon Arsher, incorporating his artwork into their monochromatic collection, while Julia Allert worked with pieces from the Resonances exhibition, integrating fabric prints and ceramic details into her collection, creating a cohesive blend of fashion and art.
The Resonances Exhibition and the Zaharia Cușnir Expo were also key features of this season’s event, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in Moldova’s cultural history and artistic expression. These exhibitions complemented the runway shows, providing context and depth to the designs being presented and reinforcing the importance of cultural heritage in shaping modern fashion.
As Moldovan Brands Runway continues to expand its reach, it is increasingly establishing itself as a key player on the international fashion stage. With a diverse lineup of designers and strong global interest from media and industry insiders, MBR is set- ting a new standard for showcasing Eastern European creativity and innovation. The AW24/25 edition highlighted how Moldovan fashion is not just reflecting global trends, but also shaping them, solidifying MBR as a must-watch event for the international fashion community.