Reviving Tradition Through Illustration
Fashion has always been more than aesthetics to me – it’s a way of telling stories. It connects history, craftsmanship, and creativity. I experienced this deeply while collaborating with Fashion Heritage Network Cyprus (FHNC).
During my stay in Cyprus as part of the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program, I created a series of fashion illustrations inspired by collections from designers who work with sustainable and traditional elements. These pieces were showcased at the Cyprus Fashion Film Festival, and I had the opportunity to translate their beauty and symbolism into my own artistic style.
How the Illustrations Were Created
1. First sketches and inspiration I began by studying the designers’ collections in detail – exploring cuts, textures, and the small elements that make each look unique. My goal was to capture the charm of traditional motifs while keeping a contemporary feel. Through hand-drawn sketches, I searched for the right composition and poses that would best express the silhouettes and the movement of the fabric.
2. Digital phase and color Once I was satisfied with the layout, I moved into the digital stage. I worked with color, light, and texture to make the illustrations feel vivid and to reflect the atmosphere of each collection.
3. Gentle animation In the final stage, I brought the illustrations to life with subtle animation. The movement added a new dimension – connecting tradition with modernity and giving the artwork a sense of liveliness.
About the Fashion Heritage Network Cyprus
FHNC brings together fashion designers, historians, and artists who are committed to preserving and reinterpreting Cyprus’s cultural heritage.
The organization focuses on projects that:
- preserve traditional textile techniques and bring them into modern design
- develop sustainable fashion inspired by history
- connect a creative community of people who tell stories through fashion
