Tradition and Modernity: An Interview with OK KINO
founders Darya Golneva and Denis Caunov
Intro
Merging Moldovan heritage with contemporary fashion, OK KINO stands as a distinctive women's wear brand rooted in authenticity and ethical principles. Founded by creative directors Darya Golneva and Denis Caunov, the brand's ethos is shaped by a commitment to merging traditional Moldovan details with a minimalist perspective. Clean silhouettes, precise tailoring, and a delicate color palette define each collection, reflecting a deep exploration of national heritage and cultural symbols. OK KINO's dedication to sustainability extends beyond rhetoric, as the brand meticulously incorporates ethical practices into its garment creation process, utilizing deadstock fabrics and emphasizing upcycling. In this exclusive interview, the founders delve into this fusion, share insights into their sustainable practices, elaborate on the meticulous selection of fabrics, provide a sneak peek into their upcoming collection, and shed light on the collaborative efforts of Darya Golneva and Denis Caunov in shaping the unique aesthetic that defines OK KINO.
interview by Ezgi Atay
We're not just focused on how a garment looks when it's still – we care about how it moves too.
Q1.
OK KINO merges Moldovan heritage with contemporary fashion. Can you elaborate on how this fusion shapes your brand's unique ethos?
We are very sensitive to the environment around us in Moldova - it's a constant source of
inspiration. OK KINO studio, nestled in the lively old center, acts as a hub where we study and interpret the local culture into our designs. Before creating the brand, we were heavily influenced by the work of various designers working in different but so easily recognizable and distinctive styles. First of all, it's the collections of Chitose Abe, Junichi Abe, Phoebe Philo and Martin Margiela. Their directions are different, but for us they are united by attention to detail and originality, unconventionality.
Image: Ok Kino
Q2.
Sustainability is an important aspect of your brand. How do you incorporate ethical and sustainable practices into the creation of your garments?
Sustainability is one of the core values for us at OK KINO, and we're passionate about it. In our small studio, the work is organized regarding the rational use of all materials used to create the collection. We use fabrics sourced from deadstocks of major factories, but upcycling plays a big role in our process. A lot of accessories and elements are created from upcycled materials. Our goal is to create timeless pieces that prioritize quality over fleeting trends.
Image: Ok Kino
Q3.
Can you give us some insight into the process behind your careful selection of fabrics and dedication to high-quality garments?
When it comes to our fabrics, we lean towards natural choices like wool and cotton. Wool's versatility allows us to work with different garment shapes. We're mindful of the material's origin. Perhaps the selection of fabrics and materials is one of the most crucial processes for us, due to our requirements. It's all about ensuring the highest quality while staying true to our commitment to sustainability.
Q4.
Let's have a sneak peek into your latest collection. What are the major themes or inspirations we can look forward to?
In our next OK KINO collection, we delve deeper into the theme of the constant population exodus from Moldova. Inspired by the photos taken by photographer Zaharia Cusnir and discovered in an abandoned house in a small Moldovan village that has been emptied, we pay homage to the frozen moments, where time stands still, and the memories of once-thriving communities are preserved.
Image: Ok Kino
Q5.
As creative directors, how do Darya Golneva and Denis Caunov work together to create the unique aesthetic that defines OK KINO?
It's all about ongoing conversations and plenty of revisions for us with an emphasis on design and construction. We love refining things until we achieve the desired outcome. We're not just focused on how a garment looks when it's still – we care about how it moves too. That's why we have lots of fitting sessions, ensuring that each piece aligns perfectly with our vision. Right now, we're deeply immersed in creating a new collection set to be presented in the spring during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Tbilisi.
