2024.05.08
From Moldova to the World: Exploring the Delicate Craftsmanship of the Emerging Brand 'OK KINO' Yet to Launch in Japan
What comes to mind when you hear 'Republic of Moldova'?
Moldova, located in Eastern Europe and bordered by Romania and Ukraine, was one of the countries that constituted the former Soviet Union. Its territory is slightly smaller than Kyushu, and with wine being its only notable industry, it is known as 'the poorest country in Europe' in terms of economic size.
One marvelous aspect of fashion is that the limitations caused by a lack of resources can actually stimulate creativity, meaning the economic size of a country does not necessarily handicap its fashion industry. Visiting the capital, Chisinau, and encountering 'OK KINO' in its second season of debut, I was reminded of this.
The co-founders, Darya Golneva and Denis Caunov, both from Moldova and based in Chisinau, primarily produce women's wear made in Moldova.
The allure of their brand lies in the use of natural materials for a variety of fabric textures, meticulous tailoring, and cuts and silhouettes that beautifully enhance the body’s lines. The clothing, sophisticated urban daily wear, incorporates crochets crafted using traditional Moldovan techniques and designs borrowing details from old clothes worn by their grandparents, exploring uniqueness.
'OK KINO' is a brand to watch. I spoke to Darya about the creative process and the fashion scene in Moldova.
PROFILE
(Right) Darya Golneva
Originally from Chisinau, the capital of Moldova. After studying fashion design, she and her life partner Denis Caunov founded the fashion brand 'OK KINO'. They explore new minimalism by integrating modernity inspired by industrial design, art, and photography, with the craftsmanship and culture of their motherland, Moldova.
The Most Creative Mode of Expression
Can you start by telling us how you two met?
We met in college. Denis was studying architecture and I was majoring in fashion design. Although we were in different fields, we shared a common passion for design, including fashion, which allowed us to constantly exchange ideas.After graduating, Denis worked in an architectural firm, and I went to Italy to gain experience in textile design. However, our passion for fashion never waned, and we eventually decided to collaborate on creating clothes together.
Designing garments with endless possibilities in shapes and textures felt like the most creative way for us to express ourselves.
What motivated you to start your own brand instead of working with established brands?
The biggest motive has always been my fascination with crafting things by hand since childhood. I’m deeply engaged in the process of creating something from scratch and believe I always will be.I remember spending countless hours with my grandmother sewing costumes for school plays, painting, choosing fabrics, and upcycling old clothes.
The entire process from conceiving an idea to realizing it holds undeniable appeal for us. Eventually, this passion manifested itself in the form of clothing.
Combining Cultural Elements with Modern Apparel
I can see 'OK KINO's aesthetics in the delicate colors, cuts, and silhouettes. Can you tell us about the brand’s concept?
The concept and aesthetics of 'OK KINO' center around a transformative approach that involves deconstructing familiar items and separating individual details. We are intrigued by the process of rethinking existing objects and turning them into something unique and personal.Whether exploring urban life or ancient village architecture, we are observers who enjoy watching people, observing architecture and natural landscapes. We delve into details.
Our collections feature references to local Moldovan culture, pairing cultural elements with modern apparel, which forms the core aesthetics of our brand.
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