DESIGNER

Justyna Smart

I have started my brand as an answer to life long calling. I do not want to make another trendy dress in polyester that breaks the bank. Nothing wrong with that approach, however after 40 years in business I want to leave behind a meaningful heritage. I am inspired by old school couturiers, bounty of nature and history of humanity. Every gown of mine has a deep meaning enhanced by meticulous attention to details. I love structure and fine tailoring. There is nothing more touching than hand stitching. Each design is personally curated by me, from concept to sketch, draping, pattern and first design development. To quote Karl Lagerfeld "Trendy is the last stage before tacky" I aspire to create timeless pieces. I am interested in building the heritage for future generations. I am following the footsteps of our female ancestors that spent their lifetimes at the looms creating the finest textiles and hand stitch garments we get to admire upon their archeological findings.

I am intrigued by historical embellishments, embroidery and beading hidden messages of "forbitten stitch", the symbolism at its core of communication during times when women were muzzled and treated as a property. I find it fascinating the women's strength and tenacity that carried our civilization to modern day era.

Bridal business brings opportunity to be a participating witness each bride taking upon herself the baton in relay-race of humanity. I want to cloak her in spells and prayers for her journey. She needs to feel supported in her elevation to the role of wife and potentially mother. She needs all the help she can draw from form and spirit. The bridal gown is a perfect canvas.

I am also an ecological activist at heart, therefore I am committed to natural textiles. I use mostly natural Silk of highest quality, finest Wools, Linen and cotton. However, in era of mity polyester we cannot avoid synthetics all together, but our goal is to minimize the damage and grow out of it eventually by creating market demand for natural fibers.

“Roman Holiday” collection was created base on old Hollywood glamour and charm that Audrey Hepburn has provided us so unapologetically. I was inspired by sculpture of giants such as Hubert de Givenchy, Cristobal Balenciaga and Christian Dior.