She has been featured in various magazines including Vogue, Grazia, and Marie Claire, but what we love about Ivanka Hristova is her humility, strong work ethic and excellence in all she does. We caught up with this established Fashion Designer as she enlightened us on what it takes to be in a competitive industry and the demands of working with top brands.

 

Tell us a bit about your background and how you got into Fashion?

I was born in Bulgaria but moved to the UK at the age of 10. I studied at the University of East London and graduated with a BA in Fashion Design in 2015, then opened my brand in 2016, and have been creating under my name ever since. I was passionate about making clothes from a young age and wanted to be a fashion designer. I have always had a “creative arts” personality. When I was 7 my grandmother taught me how to knit, hand sew and crochet – so I used to create little projects for myself with old clothes and yarn. I’ve known since then that I wanted to be a designer.

 

Did you have any fears about starting your own brand?

I was scared of the size of the industry and the fact that there were so many established names and up and coming designers on the scene, it made me feel intimidated, but after gaining some experience i realised there is a creative space for everyone and there should be no fear in trying

 

Where do you get your inspiration for your designs from?

Inspiration can come from anything and anywhere. I get inspired by seeing a plant, a stone, by music or a play – it just depends on my mindset at that moment.

 

Who do you look up to in the industry and why?

I’d say I’m highly aware of all established and emerging designers. I appreciate all levels of the industry, including accessories, shoes and interior design. It takes a lot of hard work and determination to create any product, regardless of its field.

You have been featured in Vogue magazine; what was that like for you?

It was amazing to be featured in an online article of Vogue. Honestly, waking up in the morning and seeing the publication was extraordinary. Knowing that I’ve left a footprint in one of the leading fashion magazines is incredible.

 

How do you stay grounded in an industry where peer pressure is rife?

There’s no reason not to. I’m just a human being who works hard for what she wants in life. There are still a lot of goals I’ve set for myself to accomplish and I think it’s important to stay humble regardless of the success you have. In terms of pressure, I don’t feel it as much as I used to because there is no reason to rush to get anywhere or chase the accomplishments of someone else. The best thing is to not succumb to peer pressure and work at your own pace.

 

Who have you enjoyed working with and why?

I’ve worked for/with quite a few brands. I’ve mostly enjoyed working, and continue to work, with an accessories designer – Radiana. We’ve created two collaborations so far and we are planning on a lot more. We enjoy creating together and our mindsets are pretty much alike. Surrounding yourself with people who have the same focus and drive through life is amazing.

What was the highlight of 2017?

There are many, including being featured in leading magazines such as Tatler, Marie Claire UK, Grazia UK and Grazia Bulgaria. I also established my own studio and worked with many stockists all over Europe.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to get into the fashion design industry?

I’d say be prepared and jump in the deep. It’s not an industry to play around with. There are hungry consumers and plenty of other brands and it takes guts and time to start. I’d advise them to work for a designer/brand before starting, do internships and get experience.

Instagram: @hristova_i

www.ivankahristova.co.uk