Support Local Designer – An Interview with Marija Kulušić

Marija Kulušić is a womenswear fashion designer based in Zagreb. She aims for juxtaposition in design, exploring the difference between modern and traditional to achieve timeless pieces.

ZIYP: Marija, we know that you are a fashion designer, how did you find yourself in fashion? What gives you the desire to create clothes? 
Marija: It came very naturally for me. After I finished high school for fashion design I went straight to the same college. I was drawn to design since I was a kid going through my mother’s clothes and today I want to explore myself through it. My collections are very personal, showing my interpretation triggered by experiences, admirations, desires, memories and people. 

ZIYP: Which materials do you most commonly use in your work? Do you have a vision of the woman that will wear your clothes? 
Marija: Mostly I use natural fabrics such as silk, cotton and wool and recently I started dyeing them with plants to get a completely safe and pure natural fabric with a unique shades and prints. The woman that wants to have garments that can be worn after 10 years and still look good. Whoever feels good and special in them. 

ZIYP: How is the market for contemporary fashion design in Croatia? Is Croatian contemporary fashion design recognized outside of the borders of Croatia? Or are there only a few individuals who have broken through? 
Marija: There is so much space to move things in Croatia. Fashion design is still not being considered too seriously in Zagreb but I think things are slowly changing and there are talented individuals who are being recognized outside our borders but these people need help to get more recognition and make Croatia a spot that is recognized for design. 

ZIYP: Where can your collection be purchased, is there anything you are particularly proud of in your new collection? And finally, who is your role model? 
Marija: My latest collection can be seen and purchased on my online shop (www.marijakulusic.com). It thrills me to see all the possibilities of natural dye and natural fibres, I will for sure explore more about this method of dyeing fabrics which is safer for the environment. In terms of design I don’t have a role model but I do follow some designers’ work with great interest but the real role model would probably be my mother, nothing is ever too difficult for her.