FREEDOM AND LOVE TAMARA BARNOFF
Designing gives me the possibility of Breathe
Georgian born multimedia artist, Tamara Barnoff has lived and worked in Budapest since 2004. She graduated from the J. Nikoladze College of Arts, School of Painting in 1995 and finished her MA degree in fashion design from the Tbilisi State Academy of Art in 2001. A signature style of professional tailoring, natural confidence, and sensual femininity have been immediately apparent in her first collections. Tamara Barnoff launched Barnoff, her own fashion brand in 2004 in Budapest, Hungary. Under the label, she designs and creates prêt-à-porter collections for women and men, breathtaking haute couture creations, shoes, accessories, and eyewear. Alongside her private clients, she works in fashion, film, and theatre.
For those who don’t know you, tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Georgia. I studied at a highly regarded painting school in my hometown than opted for Fashion Design at the State Academy of Art in Tbilisi – which is a much-renowned institution in the region. While I was still studying I’ve worked in a small factory making handmade shoes.
I’ve created my own brand Barnoff in 2004 after moving from Georgia to Budapest, Hungary. I love the city’s vividness and vibrancy. Barnoff is for those with rebellious spirits who are not afraid to be different, not afraid of change, free and open.
When did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer?
At the age of 5, I have already been sewing and designing for my dolls, so the art of designing came to me very naturally. I could not live any other way.
What’s it like being in the Fashion industry?
Turbulent. Fashion means never to rest – for which I am very grateful. I have so many creative ideas that I need this kind of turbulence to use them all up. I am designing clothes, jewelry, multimedia, theatre costumes – and even my own store. But when I design, draw or paint is when I feel that I ‘m relaxed and alive.
What was your first job in the fashion industry?
I was the head designer at a shoe manufacturer at the age of 21.
Describe what do you do in your work?
Creating order from chaos – and vice versa.
What do you like about your work?
All of my creations are part of me and when I present them to people, I make sure that they represent me and my brand. I love that I can pass on this eternal freedom and love.
What advice would you pass along to those starting out in the Fashion Business?
Have a clear concept and never make compromises with people who have different goals than you have. Be persistent.
What inspires you?
You can find inspiration in anything – but I am particularly drawing inspiration from people’s eyes. When I start designing I always draw the eyes first: they then tell me what the want to wear:)
What was your inspiration for your last collection?
I like to tell tales and stories with my collections. My latest collection, Beautiful Problem is no exception. It is all about the complexity of a woman, cheeky and serious, sexy and shy, extravagant and modest, lovely and hateful. The One who is worthy enough to wait for. The one who’s problematic, because she’s beautiful…
Which material did you use?
High-density wool, impregnated tartan, bouclé-tartan, skin-friendly lurex, elastic satin, knitted alpaca mohair, tulle, velvet, and vintage goatskin.
For more information about Tamara Barnoff please visit her Website
