Fashion is definitely a powerful way for us women to express confidence. Just look at female icons like Cher, Diana Ross, Jennifer Lopez or Rita Ora who inspired generations in the best fashionable way. Rita’s earliest fashion memory was making her own outfits, digging in flea markets to find the perfect pieces. And this year, she was honored with the Style Icon award at The Daily Front Row’s 2021 Fashion Media Awards. She said that all she ever wanted was to inspire others to be themselves. She added: “All you can be is the best version of YOU and I promise you that’s enough. Thank you to all before me who helped carve the way to freedom and acceptance. My creativity and music has helped guide my love for fashion more then ever and I hope i can continue to inspire others to be themselves.”
Representing her roots has always been important to the pop sensation from Kosovo. In her music video film for her Bang EP she wore a custom made dress inspired by the Albanian culture. To honor her heritage and shine a light on some designers from home, we wanted to show you some powerful fashion pieces.
NENSKI DOJAKA
Nenski is an Albanian designer launched her namesake label while completing her BA at the London College of Fashion in 2017. The designer is beloved by Bella Hadid, Dua Lipa and others an is known for her mini-dresses and intimates with geometric patches of neutral tulle, organza and jersey. Recently, she was the recipient of this year’s LVMH Prize. Dojaka will receive a €300,000 grant and a year-long mentorship from executives at the French luxury conglomerate.
LIRIKA MATOSHI
Lirika launched her namesake line of handmade accessories in 2016 at the age of 20, after moving to New York City. The Kosovo native initially began handcrafting choker necklaces on Etsy before gaining popularity for her hand-embellished tights, glittery dresses and socks and intricate crystal covered blouses via Instagram— all created without any formal fashion school training.
TEUTA MATOSHI
Teuta is a part of the first generation of fashion designers in Kosovo She launched her line in September 2007, specializing in high-quality and unique coats, which instantly sold out the same night they debuted. Today, Teuta creates whimsically feminine gowns and dresses that often utilize handmade skills such as embroidery and embellishment. She currently has an atelier in New York City where she sells her gowns with her sister Lirika Matoshi who is also a designer.
ROARA Magazine 