MOSCOW (Reuters) – Under its glitzy facade, the Russian high-fashion industry faces an uncertain future.
Scores of Western designer labels have quit Russia as part of a backlash against Moscow’s decision to send troops into Ukraine, leaving their domestic competitors to take centre-stage.
But at the annual Moscow Fashion Week, which showcases the work of Russian designers, industry professionals said seizing that opportunity would not be easy.
“We need to develop the production of fabrics because our fabrics and accessories are all imported,” said Yulia Lavrichenko, a fashion stylist taking part in the event last week. “Unfortunately, our designers are suffering from this for the time being.”
Even Russian couturiers rely heavily on Italy to provide the exclusive materials that go into clothing their wealthy clientele.
