Where is the line drawn between modernity and tradition? As we pull towards one, can we keep the other?
Alisa Dudaj’s SS26 collection finds the best of both worlds — she honours the sewing skills learned from her grandmother in Albania, while channelling her embroidery skills into something clean and visually commanding.
‘Silent Engravings’ derives its meaning from Albanian wood carving, especially as she honours her great-grandfather’s wood carving skills through her own dedicated handcrafted ensembles.
Each piece was made using different techniques like wet felting, embroidery, and hand-knitting. After the show, she spoke to Noctis, saying, “I find it very important to have an identity and not see clothes as something you produce very fast or for very cheap. Everything needs to take its time to be made. Sustainability is such an important thing right now, especially as we are all pushed to consume more and more.”
The overall colour palette contains various shades of white, with pops of bold red and black to break up what could end up being a monotonous collection. The embroidered designs, interesting use of tassels at dress hems, and unique cuts and silhouettes created a collection that is truly wearable art.
Dudaj’s favourite piece, if she had to choose, is also one that got the most gasps from the crowd. A beige head scarf that, with the help of two tassels, pulls down to be a layerable short-sleeve outer-layer. Though no one could disregard the hidden details of the carved wooden shoes. As she experimented with 3D printing to make the shoes more comfortable, the heels will eventually be on the market.
‘Silent Engravings’ centres on natural fibres, with wool and wood at its core. Traditional techniques are reimagined through collaboration with local artisans, transforming every piece into living art that respects the earth and its own history.
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Words: Alex Shukri
Photography courtesy of POP PR