Author: Silvia Kabaivanova

The grand finale of the first night of the Ruse Fashion Week fashion show was entrusted to the winner of 34 international awards, the inimitable Ivan Donev. He is from the town of Rakovski, but his passion for fashion design took him to Italy at the age of 18. In Rome, he completed a master’s degree at the International Academy of Haute Couture and Costume Art KOEFIA.

His models reach the world’s fashion catwalks, and stars parade with them on the most prestigious red carpets of the Oscars, BAFTAs, Venice Film Fest and Sir Elton John’s Night of Stars. His mentors were designers such as Paco Rabanne, Valentino and Fausto Sarli. Ivan Donev is the founder of the fashion workshop and foundation for the development of talents in fashion CreativeLab. He mentors young designers all over the world and, in addition to the beauty of his collections, he touches people with the philosophy of a homely atmosphere – for him, fashion is a family and everyone is equal. Today Ivan is creating the largest Bulgarian dress “From the golden hands of our grandmothers and mothers” a project dedicated to the work of the Bulgarian woman. The dress will be the size of a cloak, made of crocheted squares donated by people from every corner of Bulgaria.

Designer Deyna Brenjens officially returned to the fashion scene on the runway of Ruse Fashion Week with her brand DESSA THEA BRENJENS. Her comeback is even more special as it comes in tandem with her daughter – Thea Brenjens, who is only 6 years old but already shows a remarkable sense for fashion and design. Young Thea not only participates in the creative process but also actively develops ideas for dresses for her peers – from ages 1 to 10, including formal, children’s, and even bridal outfits.

Designer Busra Canay from Turkey perceives fashion not merely as a space for design, but as emotion, sensation, and a form of expression. For her, it is one of the most powerful manifestations of presence in everyday life. In her collections, she traces the journey of learning and self-discovery, with every story beginning from the hem of the garment. Her inspiration comes from contrasts in color – from the dynamics of the street to the depths of the human soul. In her designs, Busra Canay strives to combine contemporary feminine radiance with traditional accents, creating an opportunity for every woman to express her essence and project confidence. For her, a garment is not just something to wear, but an experience to be felt. Seams matter, and details carry character. Through the balance between aesthetics and functionality, she builds a style that is both timeless and bold.

Photos:

1. – 13. Models by Busra Canay, presented at Ruse Fashion Week 2026
14. – 15. Top model of Fashion.bg Mira Simeonova and Büşra Canay
16. Busra Canay and Silvia Kabaivanova, organizer of Ruse Fashion Week

Photographer: Tsvetomir Tsvetanov

During Ruse Fashion Week 2026, the brand Miss Queen presented a collection of formal dresses designed to turn every special occasion into an unforgettable experience. The designs combine elegance and contemporary style, emphasizing high-quality fabrics and silhouettes that highlight individuality. With each look, Miss Queen conveys a message encouraging women to feel confident, distinctive, and truly special.

Miss Queen is a dress boutique in Ruse, located at Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. No. 10

Photos:

1. – 12. Miss Queen models
13. Aneliya Rosenova, Manager of Miss Queen
14. – 15. Afrodita Darmonska (host), Silvia Kabaivanova, organizer of Ruse Fashion Week, and Aneliya Rosenova

Photographer: Tsvetomir Tsvetanov

DANINI is a Bulgarian womenswear brand, founded as a family business in the 1990s. What began as a small tailoring atelier gradually evolved into a well-established manufacturer of elegant and high-quality women’s clothing. Today, the brand combines traditional Bulgarian craftsmanship with a contemporary European vision of women’s fashion. The collections include dresses, suits, blouses, and outerwear, created for the modern woman – dynamic, confident, and naturally elegant. All DANINI designs are created and produced in Bulgaria by a team of experienced professionals – designers, pattern makers, technologists, and tailors – who work with attention to detail and respect for the traditions of the craft.

Freshness, lightness, and feminine elegance – this defines the new Spring/Summer collection by Danini, presented during Ruse Fashion Week 2026. Contemporary silhouettes, delicate fabrics, and attention to detail create looks that highlight the confidence and style of the modern woman. The collection combines comfort and sophistication, suitable for both dynamic everyday life and special occasions. Each design is created with the woman in mind – one who values quality, elegance, and the freedom to express her individuality. Danini – a collection inspired by femininity and designed to emphasize the natural elegance of every woman.

Explore all DANINI collections at https://danini.eu/

1. – 25. DANINI Spring/Summer 2026 designs, presented at Ruse Fashion Week 2026

26. – 27. Mihaela Milcheva, Brand Manager of Danini

28. – 29. Silvia Kabaivanova, Chairwoman of the Bulgarian Fashion Association, Denitsa Tihanova, President of Lions Club Sexaginta Prista, and Mihaela Milcheva, Brand Manager of Danini, receiving an award for sustainable fashion from the Bulgarian Fashion Association

Photographer: Tsvetomir Tsvetanov

ROSI presented selected pieces from its Spring/Summer 2026 collection during Ruse Fashion Week 2026 on April 2nd at the Central Railway Station in Ruse.

The collection reflects ROSI’s vision of the contemporary woman – multifaceted, strong, and at the same time gentle.

ROSI believes that style should not be an effort. That clothing is not a mask, but support. That a woman should not adapt to fashion – fashion should work for her.

ROSI creates garments for real life: for working days, for important meetings, for moments when you want to feel confident, composed, and feminine – without ostentation.

ROSI values tailoring over trends, quality over quantity, and durability over momentary impression.

The brand’s garments do not shout. They speak quietly, yet with confidence. They do not explain themselves – they are felt.

ROSI is practical elegance for women who know who they are.

Discover the collection in the brand’s online store https://shop.rosifashion.com/

Galidona presented an impressive selection of formal gowns during Ruse Fashion Week, delivering a dazzling finale to the event.

Galidona doesn’t simply create garments – the brand creates emotions. A sense of uniqueness, softness, and presence that lingers in the mind. At the heart of every collection lies the idea that a dress should not only look stunning, but also make a woman feel confident, beautiful, and authentic.

From airy, delicate fabrics to refined silhouettes, each design is crafted with attention to every detail, transforming every appearance into a true experience. Every line, texture, and movement of the fabric enhances femininity in a subtle yet impactful way.

With a Galidona dress, words become unnecessary. Presence speaks for itself – through elegance, style, and effortless confidence.

The atelier continues to follow its mission – to create more than fashion. To turn dreams into reality.

1. – 12. Galidona designs
13. Top model Svetlozara Dimitrova and the brand’s designer Galya Docheva
14. Silvia Kabaivanova presenting an award for sustainable fashion to Galya Docheva

Photographer: Tsvetomir Tsvetanov

Ruse Fashion Week presented models from the Chinese brand “De Jin” with designer Zhou Jin—a fashion designer and one of the leading figures in the contemporary preservation, reinterpretation, and promotion of Chinese cultural heritage, traditional clothing, and costume. She showcased the iconic Chinese “mamian” skirts.

The designer is an artist with both national and international recognition, awarded among the “Top Ten Fashion Designers of the Year in China.” Her work brings together fashion, research, education, cultural memory, and the strategic development of traditional Chinese clothing as a living and contemporary form of art.

Zhou Jin is a researcher and inheritor of Chinese cultural heritage, with a strong professional focus on traditional textiles, garments, ritual aesthetics, and historical costume. She is Chair of the Fashion Design Association of Shandong Province, as well as a respected lecturer and academic partner, serving as a visiting professor at Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, a visiting professor at the National Academy of Theatre Arts, and a visiting professor at the Beijing Film Academy. The participation of a designer of such stature reinforces Ruse Fashion Week as a significant highlight in the Bulgarian fashion scene.

During the final evening of Ruse Fashion Week 2026, a collection by the Romanian brand SABINNE was presented, combining creativity, sustainability, and a contemporary perspective on haute couture. With a focus on authentic style and individuality, SABINNE creates sustainable couture fashion for people who don’t follow trends—they create them. The designs stand out with avant-garde elements, precise craftsmanship, and experimentation with new cuts that build a strong and recognizable identity. Behind the brand is designer Sabina Georgescu, who combines academic expertise with years of experience dedicated to sustainable design. Her work is characterized by complex structures, rich textures, and deep conceptual messages.

The SABINNE collection is inspired by the power and constant movement of nature—from ocean waves and rock formations to the delicate details of the marine world. Through 3D structures, contrasting textures, and innovative techniques, the designer recreates a sense of transformation and evolution.

At the core of the project is a sustainable approach—the creation of new forms through the reworking of existing denim, with over 80% of the materials being recycled. Through techniques such as collage, draping, and experimental stitching, SABINNE gives new life to materials and new meaning to fashion. Bold contrasts, strong presence, and a clear philosophy—SABINNE is a brand that looks toward the future.

During Ruse Fashion Week, the runway turned into a stage of confidence, style, and striking presence with the presentation of the latest PRESTIGE 2026 collection by Atelier Banderol.

In a world where fashion is not just appearance but a powerful statement of identity, designers Desislava Damyanova and Nikola Karadamyanov issue a bold challenge: to be noticed. The PRESTIGE 2026 collection is a true ode to individuality – daring, refined, and created for personalities who are not afraid to take center stage.

The designs carry the spirit of haute couture – signature silhouettes, precise construction, and a striking presence worthy of the red carpet. Each look is created not just to dress, but to express character. Strong lines and confident design are combined with vivid accents that capture attention and emphasize a sense of prestige and exclusivity.

PRESTIGE 2026 tells stories – of strength, class, and the freedom to be different. It is a collection that inspires and provokes, pushing beyond the boundaries of expectation and turning fashion into an experience.

With every appearance, Atelier Banderol reinforces its position as a symbol of contemporary sophistication – a brand that redefines both men’s and women’s fashion and gives a stage to the bold.

PRESTIGE 2026 is not just a collection. It is an invitation to express yourself.

BENMODEL is a Bulgarian fashion brand created with the mission to highlight the beauty, confidence, and individuality of the modern woman. The brand has established itself with its distinctive style, combining elegance, a contemporary vision, and attention to every detail.

Each BenModel collection is inspired by the dynamics of modern life and a woman’s desire to express herself through clothing. The designs combine refined silhouettes, carefully selected fabrics, and stylish details that turn every garment into a special experience.

For the first time on the stage of Ruse Fashion Week, the brand presented its new Spring–Summer collection. It is no coincidence that it bears the name “Without a Frame.” The designer’s creativity is difficult to define or limit. This collection is a unique bridge between different styles, fabrics, and constructions – from delicate and romantic to bold and avant-garde.

The brand’s philosophy is once again upheld – fashion should inspire, bring confidence, and allow every woman to express her uniqueness.

Discover the BENMODEL designs in the online store benmodel.bg

Tasquira presented its latest designs during Ruse Fashion Week 2026.

Tasquira is an established brand for bridal and formal fashion that combines contemporary design with European quality. The brand positions itself as a high-end choice for women oriented toward haute couture. Tasquira Bridal operates internationally, serving clients across Europe.

At the heart of Tasquira is its own atelier – where each dress is handcrafted with precision and attention to detail. The brand offers both designer collections and custom-made orders, working with carefully selected high-quality fabrics.

The collections of Tasquira include wedding, prom, and formal designer dresses.

At Ruse Fashion Week 2026 the brand Mona Grace presented its collection of formal and cocktail dresses and outfits. The designs highlight the beauty of femininity through timeless and elegant silhouettes. The brand introduces collections of refined garments that combine classic style with contemporary brilliance.

Mona Grace follows the principles of sustainable fashion by implementing circular models in its production and striving for a more responsible approach to fashion creation. Fine fabrics and precise craftsmanship turn every look into a true experience – created for women with a taste for elegance and confidence.

Online store of Mona Grace

Lowky Broken presented its collection at the final evening of Ruse Fashion Week 2026.

Lowky Broken is a streetwear brand created with the mission to break the boundaries of mass fashion and promote uncompromising authenticity. From the very beginning, the brand has stood out with its original approach, where every cut and detail carries meaning and character.

Instead of following trends, Lowky Broken builds its own identity, inspired by street culture and the underground scene. Limited editions and distinctive design create a sense of exclusivity and attract an audience that seeks not just clothing, but self-expression.

Today, Lowky Broken is establishing itself as more than a brand – as a movement that reaches the right people without losing its selectivity and independent spirit. With a growing international presence and collaborations, the brand continues to follow its philosophy:

Be real. Be different. Be Lowky Broken.

During the final evening of Ruse Fashion Week, the haute couture collection of the brand EMELYA was presented, with designer Yasharie Dogan. In addition to being the founder of the brand, she is also the creator of the Moda Sanat Akademi for young designers. Having graduated in “Men’s Clothing Technology and Pattern Making” in Sofia, she began her career in high-end women’s fashion, creating formal and bridal dresses as well as stage costumes. Early on, she discovered her true passion – creating unique design solutions that combine creativity and precision.

In 1990, she founded her brand, which quickly established itself both on the Turkish and international markets, with a presence in numerous countries and development in the field of haute couture and extravagant women’s fashion. With a mission to inspire the next generation, in 2010 she founded a fashion academy and actively participates as a jury member in competitions for young talents. She is also the founder of Bursa Fashion Week, as well as an active member of international business and fashion organizations.

During the runway shows of Ruse Fashion Week 2026, the artistic fashion brand Ignis Atelier presented unique garments made from authentic vintage tapestries. Each tapestry was hand-embroidered decades ago and carries its own story. In their atelier, these textile works of art are transformed into contemporary garments with character.

No two pieces are the same – every design is one of a kind.

Ignis Atelier combines tradition, art, and contemporary design, creating wearable art.

Models for connoisseurs, available at https://ignisatelier.eu/ and in the store in Sofia, Bulgaria Square 1, NDK underpass.

On April 1, 2026, the city of Ruse became a vibrant hub of creativity, sustainability, and forward-thinking fashion during the FEA-VEE Multiplier event, featuring a Fashion Workshop Creative Lab “The Clean Waters of the Danube”. The event was organized by the Bulgarian Fashion Association and was part of Ruse Fashion Week. Hosted at the professional high school PG Apparel ‘Nedka Ivan Lazarova’, the event brought together students, educators, and fashion professionals for a day dedicated to innovation and environmental awareness.

The program began with a presentation of the FEA-VEE project, delivered by the team of the Bulgarian Fashion Association. Attendees were introduced to the project’s mission and its role in developing a greener, circular and sustainable economic models in the textile, fashion and clothing industry. The discussion highlighted new opportunities for emerging designers to expand beyond local markets, collaborate across borders, and integrate sustainable practices into their creative processes.

A special highlight of the event was the presence of acclaimed Belgian designer Guy-David Lambrechts. With over 40 years of experience in the fashion industry, he addressed the audience with a motivational talk, sharing insights from his extensive career. Lambrechts spoke about the evolution of fashion, the importance of perseverance, and the value of maintaining craftsmanship in a rapidly changing industry. He also shared details about his current role, overseeing the wardrobe of the Prime Minister of Belgium, offering students a rare glimpse into the world of high-level professional fashion.

This was followed by an inspiring motivational lecture and presentation titled “Fashion and Society,” led by renowned designer Ivan Donev. His talk encouraged young designers to view fashion not only as an aesthetic pursuit but also as a powerful social and cultural tool. Through examples from his own career, Donev emphasized the importance of responsibility, storytelling, and innovation in contemporary design.

The second half of the event transformed theory into practice. Participants engaged in a hands-on creative workshop focused on producing textile panels from recycled materials. This collaborative session challenged students to rethink waste and explore the artistic potential of discarded textiles. The activity aligned perfectly with the event’s theme, “The Clean Waters of the Danube,” reinforcing the connection between fashion and environmental sustainability.

By the end of the day, the workshop had not only fostered new skills but also sparked meaningful conversations about the future of fashion in Bulgaria and beyond. The FEA-VEE initiative once again demonstrated how education, creativity, and sustainability can come together to inspire the next generation of designers.

Discover your perfect look with Miss Queen! Exclusively on the opening night of Ruse Fashion Week.

Looking for a dress that will make you feel like a true queen? 👑

At MISS QUEEN, you’ll find elegant formal dresses for every special occasion—a prom, a wedding, a gala, or an unforgettable event.

Elegant designs, high-quality fabrics, and styles that highlight your individuality.

Let yourself shine and be unforgettable!

With Miss Queen, you’ll find the dress of your dreams!