Author: RFW

The young designer Meriyan Bashova presented her creations during the final evening of Ruse Fashion Week on May 10, 2025, at the House of Culture in Ruse.

Meriyan Bashova is a designer with a distinct artistic sensitivity. She is 22 years old and in her final year of studies in “Fashion Design.” Inspired by art and a desire to create, Meriyan sees fashion as a form of personal and cultural expression.

Throughout her academic journey, she has broadened her horizons through an Erasmus program in Istanbul – a city that gave her the opportunity to experience the diversity and dynamism of global fashion. Her participation in numerous fashion shows during her studies demonstrates her dedication, talent, and ambition for growth.

Meriyan is the winner of the Tailor Your Mind competition, selected by the jury of Italy’s oldest academy of haute couture and costume arts, KOEFIA, in Rome.

Meriyan Bashova also received a Sustainable Fashion Award from the Bulgarian Fashion Association, in recognition of her contribution to the development of ethical and responsible fashion in Bulgaria. The award was presented by Silvia Kabaivanova, Chair of the Bulgarian Fashion Association.

Photos:

1 – 7: Designs by Meriyan, modelled at Ruse Fashion Week

8: Meriyan Bashova receives the Sustainable Fashion Award from Silvia Kabaivanova, Chair of the Bulgarian Fashion Association

Photographer: Neno Valkovski

On the final evening of Ruse Fashion Week, the brand Adriana Rica with designer Adriana Garelova presented formal and bridal gowns.

Adriana Rica is a brand born out of a love for art, fashion, and femininity in all its forms. For Adriana Rica, true beauty has no limits – it is not defined by age, size, or standard.

Every woman is a whole universe – unique, beautiful, extraordinary, and deserves a dress that tells her story – with grace, character, and timeless elegance. At the Adriana Rica design studio, dresses are created that don’t just highlight your style – they fully align with you and your worldview.

The brand combines haute couture and personal attention, creating unique, handcrafted pieces that highlight the natural grace and style of every woman. Attention to detail, precision in craftsmanship, and the pursuit of perfection are at the heart of every dress created by Adriana Rica.

For them, fashion is art, and every lady who chooses Adriana Rica is a muse, an inspiration, and perfection embodied in a unique vision.

If you want to learn more about the brand, book an appointment at the studio, or place a custom order, you can contact us here:

Phone: +359 886 502 505

Studio: Ruse, Alexander Battenberg Square 1 (Old Post Office building), ground floor

Instagram: adrianaricahautecouture

Facebook: AdrianaRicafashion

Every dress begins with a dream. Let us create it together.

Photos:

1–11. Designs by Adriana Rica

12. Adriana Garelova receives a sustainable fashion award from the Bulgarian Fashion Association and a perfume from Martinez

Boutique Milano showcased a collection of men’s suits during the glamorous runway show on the final evening of Ruse Fashion Week. The brand also received an award for sustainable fashion from the Bulgarian Fashion Association.

At Boutique Milano, they believe that style is a matter of choice. That’s why they offer a wide range of men’s suits that combine refined design with high quality. Their models are carefully selected to meet various tastes and occasions.

Why choose Boutique Milano:
* They work with fabrics from leading manufacturers, ensuring durability and comfort. This year they’ve focused on bold colors, unconventional cuts, and confidence! Daring silhouettes and unexpectedly different styles!
* They offer stylish suits at competitive prices without compromising on quality.
* Fast service: Their ready-to-wear models are immediately available, saving you time and effort.
* Personalized consultation: Their experts will help you choose the most suitable suit according to your preferences and needs.
* Styles for all occasions: Whether you need a suit for a business meeting, wedding, prom, or any special event, Boutique Milano has the right option for you.

You can find all of Boutique Milano’s designs at https://boutiquemilano.bg/ and at their store in Ruse, 79 Aleksandrovska Street.

Photos:

1–11. Designs by Boutique Milano

12. Alexandra Yordanova, manager of CCC Ruse, presents the award to Boutique Milano

POVODA took part in Ruse Fashion Week by presenting models from its bridal gown collection.

POVODA is a boutique for bridal and formal dresses, created for women without age limits. Women seeking modern femininity, romance, and a desire for elegance. At POVODA, they believe that style should be as natural as the movement of water.

POVODA is the place that offers solutions for every special moment, with a personal approach and attention to detail. They will help you find your dress — one that will not only impress but also reflect your essence. With the help of experienced professionals, they provide consultations and the creation of personalized designs.

What sets POVODA apart?
POVODA is an experience. Choosing a wedding dress is an emotional journey, and they will be with you throughout the entire process. Feel the uniqueness of their dresses – experience the high-quality fabrics they are made from, enjoy the handcrafted details, the fine lace, and delicately sewn beads, and your experience will surely be one-of-a-kind, because POVODA works with the best. And why are they the best? Because they put their heart and soul into their work. That is what makes the result exceptional.

At POVODA, you will receive much more than expected. You will have an experience that will remain in your heart forever.

At POVODA, they await you for every special occasion where your dream of the perfect dress comes to life.

After its presentation at Ruse Fashion Week, POVODA received a sustainable fashion award from the Bulgarian Fashion Association.

You can explore POVODA‘s collections at https://povodabg.com/ or in their boutique in Sofia, 91 Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd.

Photos:

1–12. Models by POVODA

13. POVODA received a sustainable fashion award from the Bulgarian Fashion Association

The unique style created by designer Axel Hardy – two-time recipient of the “Golden Needle” award – is a mix of funky elements, boho-chic, casual-chic, and avant-garde. The materials are carefully selected for each season. The summer collections are made of linen, cotton, natural silk, and natural viscose. For winter, cotton, wool, cashmere, alpaca, and natural viscose are used. A signature of the brand is the combination of knits and fabric. Many of the garments are reversible, with decorative overlock stitching made of yarn – a distinctive mark of the brand. The designer’s concept is to create unique, different clothing that is also maximally comfortable. Most items are one-size-fits-all and are suitable for any body type and age.

On the runway of Ruse Fashion Week, Axel Hardy presented the HARMONY collection, which embodies the harmony between people, nature, and fashion. The materials include hemp, linen, natural silk, and natural viscose, combined with knits. Alongside the brand’s signature funky and bohemian chic style, several looks from a new line featuring prints based on paintings by artist Laura Ora were also showcased.

For over 20 years, AXEL HARDY has collaborated with a German brand, and the designer’s collections have been featured each season at the biggest trade fairs – Düsseldorf, Berlin, Munich. Through her unique and distinctive boutique in Veliko Tarnovo, Axel Hardy reaches even the most remote corners of the world – from Alaska to Australia – and has many fans in Romania and Belgium, some of whom attended the fashion show in Ruse.

This year, the brand AXEL HARDY officially became part of a prestigious concept boutique in the artistic SoHo district of New York – a place that brings together independent designers from around the globe. The partnership with the SoHo boutique is the result of Axel Hardy’s long-standing dedication to fashion, innovation, and quality. For her international success and commitment to sustainable fashion, Axel Hardy received an elegant statuette from the Bulgarian Fashion Association. The award was presented by Milen Dobrev, Deputy Chairman of the BFA.

Photos:

1–15. Designs by Axel Hardy presented at Ruse Fashion Week

16–17. Axel Hardy receives an award for sustainable fashion and international success from Milen Dobrev, Deputy Chairman of BFA.

18. Silvia Kabaivanova, Chairwoman of the Bulgarian Fashion Association and organizer of Ruse Fashion Week, designer Axel Hardy, and Svetlozara Bazhdarova, brand ambassador

Photographer: Neno Valkovski

Vayana Collection is an in-house brand of BTB Bulgaria, which has successfully combined Bulgarian design with German precision on the market for 17 years. The brand presented its Spring-Summer 2025 collection during Ruse Fashion Week.

The Spring-Summer 2025 season brings a new definition of femininity in the world of business fashion. The collection is inspired by natural beauty, the lightness of movement, and the refined taste of the modern woman who combines professionalism with personal style. Each piece in the collection is created with attention to detail – fine lines, airy fabrics, and contemporary silhouettes that highlight the unique style of the modern lady. The color palette combines neutral tones with bold accents, inspired by the latest fashion trends – all designed to emphasize both individuality and elegance for every woman.

The collection is designed for women who value quality, comfort, and class. From stylish suits to lightweight blouses and dresses, each garment is created to adapt both to the dynamics of the office and to evening gatherings with friends.

The new collection features stylish looks made from natural materials such as linen, cotton, and viscose, providing all-day comfort even on the hottest days. These fabrics not only emphasize natural beauty but also contribute to a sustainable and conscious fashion choice.

The designs are distinguished by light shades – cream, sand, sky blue, powder pink, and soft white – bringing a sense of lightness and sophistication. In contrast, the colorful prints create vibrant highlights: floral motifs, abstract geometric shapes, and artistic details that add freshness and individuality to each look.

• Suits with a modern line – slightly tailored blazers and high-waisted trousers, suitable for both the office and after-work events.
* Shirts and blouses with expressive prints – easy to combine with solid-color skirts or trousers, adding a touch of artistry to business style.
* Summer dresses with an elegant silhouette – perfectly suited for business meetings during the warmer months, as well as for informal occasions where style remains a priority.

This collection is for the woman who knows what she wants – and expresses it with presence and style!

Vayana is a brand for the modern woman – stylish, elegant, and sophisticated. A woman with imagination and a strong identity who expresses her femininity and style in the fast-paced world of business. The clean silhouette, high-quality finishing, and premium materials are the hallmarks of Vayana. Uncompromising quality ensures comfortable combinations for the business day. The lines of the collections, combined with the cuts and materials, are selected with comfort and ease in mind for a busy daily life, specially created to meet the highest standards. The technological base of BTB Bulgaria is among the leading in the country – a benchmark for quality, reflected in Vayana’s collections. Every detail is carefully considered to complete a perfect garment, created with love for the woman who values herself.

Photos:

1. – 11. Vayana Collection models

12. The Deputy Manager of Vayana Collection, Tanya Marinova, receiving a statuette from the Bulgarian Fashion Association, presented by notary Temenuzhka Kozareva

Photographer: Neno Valkovski

Miss Queen is a boutique for evening gowns in Ruse, offering a selection of boutique formal dresses crafted with attention to every detail. Inspired by the modern woman, the designs highlight the grace, confidence, and uniqueness of each lady.

Miss Queen presented a selection of Evening Gowns 2026 during Ruse Fashion Week.

A variety of designs and styles – from classic elegance to bold fashion statements – await every client looking not just for a dress, but for an experience.

Luxurious fabrics, sparkling stones, and airy feathers turn each gown into a true work of art. At Miss Queen, you will find everything you need to be the star of any event – radiant, unforgettable, and a true queen.

Boutique address: Ruse, Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. 10

Facebook: MISS QUEEN

Photos:

1. – 13. Models of MISS QUEEN evening gowns

Photographer: Neno Valkovski

Reny Style presented a collection of casual women’s wear during Ruse Fashion Week last month in Ruse. The collection is inspired by real women – dynamic, stylish, and with a personal touch. The focus is on soft and primarily natural fabrics with elasticity and comfort, carefully selected cuts and details that highlight the strengths of every woman. During the event, the brand received a statuette for sustainable fashion from the Bulgarian Fashion Association.

The story began in 1997, when Irina Petrova – Reni – poured her love for beauty, uniqueness, and novelty into the first designs she sewed for friends on a cold winter’s day. Since then, Reny Style has evolved with one mission: to highlight femininity, provide comfort and confidence, and turn fashion into a personal experience.

Reny Style is the choice of women who want to look modern without compromising on comfort. For Reny Style, fashion is more than appearance – it’s an attitude towards oneself, towards the world, and towards the little details that make each day special. Reny Style – for women with style and a modern vision. Your confidence starts here!

Photos:

1. – 12. Reny Style models

13. – 14. Irina Petrova receiving a statuette from the Bulgarian Fashion Association. The award was presented by PR to the stars, Nasko Lazarov.

Tasquira Boutique closed the defiles of Ruse Fashion Week with an exquisite collection of 24 bridal and formal dresses.

Tasquira Boutique was founded in 2014 with the idea of continuing a family tradition in tailoring, providing individuality and elegance. The boutique has its own atelier, as well as physical stores in Ruse, Bulgaria, and Essen, Germany. The boutique offers custom-made garments tailored to the preferences of each client. The brand’s designer, Neshe Kurtova, received an award for sustainable fashion and international activity from the Bulgarian Fashion Association.

The name *Tasquira* holds a special meaning, symbolizing a memory that is permanently etched in one’s mind. Inspired by this meaning, the boutique’s mission is to offer an exquisite and high-quality selection of bridal and prom dresses, as well as formal attire, to enhance the beauty of every woman, leaving a lasting impression. And for those who wish to add their personal touch to their look, we offer the opportunity to create a custom garment with unforgettable style.

For contact with Tasquira Boutique, visit tasquira.bg

Photos:

1. – 24. Bridal and formal dress models from Tasquira Boutique

1. – 24. Models from Tasquira Boutique and the brand’s designer Neshe Kurtova

The “Alma” collection by the brand VALMÓ with designer Maria Boneva was presented during Ruse Fashion Week 2025. The collection is inspired by the painting “The Two Fridas” and conveys themes of identity, sustainability, and cultural depth. It blends traditional Mexican silhouettes with contemporary cuts, creating harmony between past and present. The color palette of beige, green, and brown reflects a connection with nature and the earth. Three-dimensional hand-knitted flowers complete the designs, carrying a message of strength, tenderness, and inner transformation.

For her contribution to sustainable fashion, Maria Boneva received a statuette from the Bulgarian Fashion Association.

Photos:

1. – 10. Designs by Maria Boneva and the brand VALMÓ

11. Maria Boneva receiving a statuette from the Bulgarian Fashion Association. The award was presented by Izabela Lorieve, President of the Ladies Business Club Ruse.

Founded in 2002, the fashion house ATELIER BANDEROL is the realized dream of designers Desislava Damyanova and Nikola Karadamyanov! The brand features luxurious yet comfortable and practical boutique collections of elegant items for men and women, suitable for business meetings, receptions, and special occasions!

ATELIER BANDEROL opened the final evening of Ruse Fashion Week with a selection of pieces from the new Spring-Summer 2025 collection of bridal gowns and formal men’s suits.

A defining feature of the men’s suits is the traditional classic style with elements of original cuts and details. The designers strictly adhere to tailoring traditions, with every piece they create intended for the successful and confident modern individual. The younger audience prefers BANDEROL designs because of the modern, comfortable cuts and fabrics that allow ease of movement while highlighting individuality and style. In addition to classic silhouettes and traditional colors, ATELIER BANDEROL produces suits in both neutral and bold colors, using interesting and comfortable fabrics in “over size,” “slim fit,” and “regular” silhouettes.

The women’s dresses and suits collections go beyond the traditional definition. Each design is original, created as if made for a red carpet appearance or a glamorous event. The vivid details attract attention, emphasizing the exclusivity and prestige of the wearer!

The BANDEROL woman embraces the gentle transition of mid-season, exuding effortless elegance and understated richness, while smoothly moving between dynamic commitments and moments of calm reflection.

Since its founding, ATELIER BANDEROL has remained a symbol of innate sophistication, redefining the boundaries of contemporary men’s and women’s fashion and expressing a desire to break free from established norms.

The design team’s commitment to sustainable fashion is reflected in various steps—from product design and collaboration with suppliers and creatives to the optimization of production processes. By integrating craftsmanship, innovation, and environmental responsibility, the brand strives to make a positive impact on the fashion industry while preserving our cultural heritage and identity. For its dedication to more sustainable fashion and its international success, ATELIER BANDEROL received a statuette from the Bulgarian Fashion Association, chaired by Silvia Kabaivanova.

Find out more about ATELIER BANDEROL on their website banderolfashion.com

Photos:

1. – 20. Models by ATELIER BANDEROL
21. Designers of ATELIER BANDEROL Desislava Damyanova and Nikola Karadamyanov
22. The designers of ATELIER BANDEROL received a statuette from the Bulgarian Fashion Association, chaired by Silvia Kabaivanova, and perfumes from Martinez

The popular Bulgarian brand ROSI presented selected creations from its Spring–Summer 2025 collection during Ruse Fashion Week. The designs combine an ethical approach with contemporary aesthetics, inspired by the dynamic spirit of the season.

Sophistication, authenticity, and sustainability – these are the three pillars on which the Bulgarian womenswear brand ROSI is built. Since its founding in 1994, the brand has aimed not just to offer clothing, but to create a lifestyle and a sense of social responsibility. True to its philosophy, ROSI believes that fashion is an expression of values. That is why it relies on eco-certified fabrics, combined with handcrafted details and local production, creating innovative pieces that remain timeless and carry a message – of beauty, responsibility, and a better tomorrow.

Photos:

1–13. ROSI designs for Spring–Summer 2025

14. Designers of the ROSI brand

15. Rositsa Gospodinova, Manager and Designer of ROSI, receiving a statuette for sustainable fashion from the Bulgarian Fashion Association and a Martinez perfume

Afrodita Darmonska – a legal professional in the business world, an organizer and presenter, a model, and a (motivational) coach in the social sphere. She follows the principle that just as the legal framework has its precise application, beauty and aesthetics have their own rules.

For more than 10 years, she has worked as a choreographer and organizer of fashion shows, spectacles, and model competitions for leading fashion agencies in Bulgaria. Her skills as a presenter have been recognized at fashion and social events across the country, ranging from corporate to wedding parties.

In recent years, she has been a sought-after model for both established and emerging brands and has been developing advertising strategies for digital marketing. She is also the creator and developer of one of Ruse’s most successful art therapy formats – “Art and Wine.”

To prove that time is more than enough when managed perfectly, she maintains her fitness through active sports and leads women’s Full Body workouts.

Driven and confident in her abilities, motivated and guided by the principle that perfect beauty is natural and starts from within, Afrodita Darmonska will be the presenter of Ruse Fashion Week — yet another challenge she will embrace with love and professionalism.

Ruse Fashion Week is not just a celebration of style and creativity – it is also a powerful platform promoting sustainable fashion. Through a variety of initiatives and practices, the event emphasizes the importance of ethical production, environmental responsibility, and innovative design.

Here are some of the key sustainable practices that Ruse Fashion Week supports:

1. Ethical Local Production

One of the main pillars of Ruse Fashion Week’s commitment to sustainability is the focus on ethical local production. Ruse is one of the hubs of the garment industry in Bulgaria, and local production reduces the carbon footprint associated with long supply chains while fostering a closer connection between designers and manufacturers.

2. Digital Printing

The event promotes the use of digital printing, including advanced sublimation techniques, as a more sustainable alternative to traditional textile printing. This technology uses minimal resources, requires no water, and significantly reduces waste. Digital printing also allows for small-batch production, limiting overproduction and excess inventory.

3. Slow Fashion

Ruse Fashion Week advocates for the principles of slow fashion, encouraging consumers to move away from fast, disposable clothing and instead invest in high-quality, durable pieces. By showcasing long-lasting designs, the event fosters a culture of mindful consumption and reduces the environmental impact of overproduction.

4. Made-to-Order Production

An important sustainable initiative at Ruse Fashion Week is the emphasis on made-to-order production. This practice helps minimize waste by producing garments only when there is demand, avoiding the surplus often associated with mass production. Custom-made clothing also fosters a stronger emotional connection between the consumer and the product.

5. Designer Fashion and Creativity

By providing a platform for emerging and established designers, Ruse Fashion Week encourages creativity and innovative solutions. Many of the showcased collections are created with a focus on sustainability, blending artistic expression with responsible design practices. This not only increases the value of the garments but also educates the audience on the possibilities of sustainable fashion.

6. Use of Eco-Friendly Materials

A core element of the event’s sustainability message is the use of eco-friendly materials. Designers are encouraged to work with organic fabrics, recycled textiles, and biodegradable materials. These choices significantly reduce the environmental impact of textile production while allowing for stylish and innovative designs.

7. Educating Consumers

Ruse Fashion Week goes beyond the runway by focusing on consumer education. Visitors are encouraged to make more conscious choices by supporting ethical brands and adopting sustainable consumer habits.

A Future of Fashion with Responsibility

By integrating these sustainable practices, Ruse Fashion Week helps shape a more ethical and environmentally-conscious future for the fashion industry and aims to inspire both designers and consumers to adopt a more thoughtful approach to fashion.

The Bulgarian fashion portal Fashion.bg is pleased to invite you to be part of the most significant fashion event in the city of Ruse – Ruse Fashion Week.

Ruse Fashion Week kicks off on May 3rd with a creative workshop, culminating in fashion shows featuring Bulgarian and international designers and fashion houses on May 9th and 10th at the House of Culture – Ruse.

This week is especially significant due to two important dates: May 6th – Ruse Day, and May 9th – Europe Day.

The House of Culture is a majestic building located at the entrance of the Youth Park, known for its imposing columns and pediment adorned with the coat of arms of the Republic of Bulgaria. Over the years, the building has hosted numerous cultural events, including concerts from the March Music Days International Festival. The fashion runway for the event will be set up in the spacious foyer of the House of Culture, which features an elegant and prestigious interior with columns that will be illuminated by artistic lighting.

Ruse has rich traditions in the textile and fashion industry, and organizing Fashion Week presents a unique opportunity to promote the city as a cultural and economic hub.