Designer from Volgograd Nyura Menyailovand on the eve of the 40th anniversary competition «Exercise» told about what changed in her life after participating in this project, why the new collection «IS NOT a boy BUT a man» dedicated to men and creative plans for the future.

– Nyura, what has changed in your creative life after participating in the contest «Exercise-2017»?

– Last year, my women's collection «The reverse side of the moon» received a decent rating at the competition «Exercise», and I decided for myself to take the next height – to make a men's collection. As it turned out, it was the right choice. My new collection received the Grand Prix of the regional competition "Fashion Designer of the Year" in my native Volgograd.

 
– What is the concept of the new collection?

– My friend inspired me to create the collection. Looking at him, knowing that he would like it, I saw new images in my head. Men's style is always free... Free from trends, rumors and assessments. It is born of convenience and confidence. Wide trousers that do not constrain the step. Free shapes and simple lines. Clothes for a self-sufficient and self-confident man, free from prejudice. It was on these principles that the collection "NOT boy BUT man" was created..

–Tell us about the features of photographing the collection.

– In accordance with the concept of the created collection, I wanted to see models in non-standard conditions that would combine urbanism and freedom. And we found a great location in the city on the Volga River, where the models could behave naturally. We worked with photographer Maxim Nesterov, who, like no one else, feels what I want to convey visually.

– Where do you get your inspiration from?

– I am always inspired by people. Those who are close to me in spirit, with whom I am on the same wavelength.

–What does fashion design mean to you?

– Fashion is what changes us. Style is what defines us. For me, MY OWN style is important, which would be read immediately. I only do what I like, and I don't strive to make my things like everyone. No! I want a person to feel real and confident when wearing them.

–Your creative plans?

– We plan to create our own website and promote the brand, as we want to go beyond our hometown, and there are already precedents. And, of course, find inspiration to create new collections.

We remind you that the 40th anniversary International Competition of Young Designers «Exercise» will be held on September 18, 2018 as part of the 51st Federal Fair «Tekstillegprom» in Moscow, at VDNH.

Photos provided by designer Nyura Menyailova.
Interviewer: Vera Tugova.