26-year-old Akylbek Tolomushev is one of the few Kyrgyz designers who has managed to earn respect on American runways. He currently works at one of the best wedding salons in Chicago, where he is an artist-designer, and also collaborates with several other boutiques.
Immediately after the "Couture Fashion Week New York 2013" fashion show, where he presented his winter-autumn 2013 collection, he began receiving numerous collaboration offers.
“This collection is completely handmade, from the jewelry to the clothing. Knowing that in America they love everything natural, I used only natural materials in my work: felt, silk, stones, shells, and much more. In my collection, I focused on the combination of lightness and casual style. And, as it turned out, I was right. After the show, there were various photo shoots and many interesting meetings. On the same day, one boutique bought half of my collection. Journalists approached me and were curious if I really made everything by hand,” the designer shared.
The New York Fashion Week left bright impressions in the memory of the young Kyrgyz.
“I was amazed because I found myself in the capital of the world, in such a beautiful and luxurious hotel, the organization was top-notch. There were charming models everywhere, one more beautiful than the other. There were a lot of makeup artists, as it should be. But it’s just indescribable!” Akylbek shared his emotions.
After presenting his collection at New York Fashion Week, he was offered a job in Chicago, where he had friends. Akylbek immediately agreed.
“I was invited by a local Chicago company. They liked my approach to work, and they hired me as an artist-designer, which I continue to do to this day. At the same time, I collaborate as an illustrator with the wedding salon 'Viero Bridal', combining travel, work, and study. For a whole year, I attended college and learned the language; I honestly admit, I am still learning it. This year, I enrolled in the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in the 'Marketing and Branding' department. I will study this course for another two years,” our compatriot shared.
Recently, Akylbek Tolomushev developed three looks for Kyrgyz actress Elina Abay kyzy, who represented the film "Kurmandjan Datka" in Los Angeles.
“When I create looks, it mainly depends on the person for whom I am creating them. For example, for Elina Abay kyzy, everything went very smoothly, as she is a kind person with a bright aura. Three looks were created in three days; it was a record for me,” the designer said.
Akylbek mentioned that his love for creating looks and design appeared in his childhood.
“I have always loved to draw, create something interesting, some decorative elements for the home, and much more. A little later, I enrolled in a translation program, but after studying for a year, I realized it wasn’t for me, and I enrolled in KRSU at the Faculty of Architecture, Design, and Construction. When I was still a student, I enjoyed creating, bringing my fantasies to life, which is why I decided to participate in competitions. There was some motivation, and then it became unstoppable,” Akylbek recalls.
As a true patriot, Akylbek Tolomushev plans to return to his homeland and continue working there.
“But first, I need to achieve my set goals. I do not plan to conquer the world runways; I want to declare and establish myself as a successful and talented designer from Kyrgyzstan. The main thing for me is not to stop and believe in my abilities. I am ready to contribute to the development of our fashion industry and share everything I know and what I will learn,” the young designer spoke about his plans.
Akylbek secretly revealed that he will soon start sewing outfits for representatives of the Russian show business.
“Negotiations are currently underway. But I think that soon everything will be finalized, and I will be able to present the first sketches,” Akylbek said.
Source: knews.kg
