Life in the Regions: A Resident of the City of Talas Promotes Kyrgyz National Culture Through Clothing

Арестова Татьяна Exclusive
VK X OK WhatsApp Telegram
Maral Toktonalieva, a 40-year-old resident of Talas, is actively promoting Kyrgyz national culture through clothing design.

“I am a designer by profession, and although this endeavor requires constant struggle with difficulties, I continue to pursue this path. Creating national clothing is my destiny and calling. I strive to connect the rich cultural heritage of the Kyrgyz people with modern trends, highlighting the inner beauty, tenderness, and strength of every woman,” she shares.

All of Maral's dresses are the result of handmade work.

“I create each look myself: from sketch to final product. I sew, embellish, and add accessories. For this, I use beads, pearls, silver, rhinestones, and natural stones to give each outfit uniqueness. Each set includes all elements—from headwear to jewelry,” she said.

Maral was born in the village of Kara-Oy in the Talas region and raises four children with her husband.

“I actively participate in various holidays and celebrations in the Talas region, striving to popularize national clothing. My husband always supports me, inspires me, and helps with my endeavors,” she added.

Creating one dress takes from one month to one and a half. All work is done by hand. For her decorations, Maral orders beads from Uzbekistan, where they are significantly cheaper and there is a wide selection. Dresses are sold at prices ranging from 25,000 to 70,000 soms, and they are often rented out, for example, for wedding ceremonies at 2,000 soms per day,” she noted.
Awards:

Holder of the title "Best Woman of Asia"

Laureate of the "Ak mөөр" project award — "Daughter of the Difficult Edge of the Century"

Laureate of the INTERNATIONAL DESIGNER competition in Aktau (Kazakhstan)

Laureate of the international competition "Nomad Style."
VK X OK WhatsApp Telegram

Read also:

Write a comment: