Paolina Russo: Balancing Tradition and Innovation in Sculptural Knitwear
*Who is Paolina Russo?*Â
 Paolina Russo, a dynamic knitwear-focused label, was born out of a "cosmic moment" that brought together two creative minds, Paolina Russo and Lucile Guilmard. Both graduates of Central Saint Martin's MA in Fashion (Knitwear) program, these designers, hailing from Canada and France respectively, share a passion for craftsmanship and a desire to innovate within the realm of fashion.
*The Craftsmanship Connection*
Russo and Guilmard's journey into fashion began through their family connections to traditional clothing-making techniques. These early experiences instilled in them a deep appreciation for the hands-on knowledge transfer that underpins fashion design. Together, they hold a reverence for the magic of these ancient crafts and their potential to drive future solutions.
*Knitwear Alchemy*
Knitwear is the heart and soul of Paolina Russo. It's a craft that has existed for millennia, yet the designers see endless possibilities for its future. Their collaborative approach allows them to transform what may seem "theoretically impossible" into practical solutions. For them, working with knitwear developers is a form of alchemy, where innovation meets tradition.
*The Human Story*
At the core of Paolina Russo is a commitment to community and intergenerational knowledge. They start each collection by spending time in the factories they work with, documenting every step on social media to celebrate the hands involved in crafting their garments. For them, craft is a human story passed down through generations, and they strive to keep it that way.
*Why You Want It*
Paolina Russo's distinctive sculptural knitwear beautifully blends technical innovation with folkish motifs and playful palettes. Each piece is crafted with high-quality, natural fibers and innovative techniques to ensure durability. Their designs bridge the gap between past and future, emphasizing the endurance of traditional craftsmanship in a tech-driven world.
*The Monolith Collection*
For their Spring/Summer 2024 collection, "Monolith," Russo and Guilmard drew inspiration from prehistoric cave markings and childhood chalked pavement scribbles. They showcased the intelligence of human ancestral wisdom, often overlooked in our digital age. Laser-cut jeans adorned with runic symbols and talismanic wooden fastenings on slouched jersey tops embodied this connection between past and future.
*Sustainability Matters*
Russo and Guilmard's commitment to sustainability is as rigorous as their design process. Each collection focuses on a single fiber, ensuring transparency from material sources to post-consumer disposal. They choose materials that can biodegrade, reducing the environmental impact of their creations.
*Sharing Knowledge*
As Paolina Russo continues to grow, the designers remain dedicated to ongoing education. They share their expertise through workshops and social media, believing that fashion design is about finding solutions to problems and that it's a craft filled with endless possibilities. In the world of fashion, Paolina Russo stands as a testament to the beauty of tradition, the promise of innovation, and the importance of community. Their sculptural knitwear is not just clothing; it's a celebration of human craftsmanship and a bridge between the past and the future.
