Backstage photos by @selinaseibelIntroducing Anastasia Bull: A Visionary Voice in Fashion. Mode Suisse presented an amazing runway at Kunsthaus Zürich. 22 talented participants, including 13 exciting newcomers, each showcased their latest collections and transformed the Pfistersaal into a cinematic fashion experience. Among the stand-out brands was the captivating Anastasia Bull, whose work continues to resonate powerfully within the fashion community.
Anastasia’s journey into the world of fashion began at a young age, igniting a passion for design characterised by opulence, ethereal beauty, and a touch of the unconventional. Her latest collection reflects her evolution as a designer, rooted in a rich tapestry of inspiration, experimentation, and a genuine desire to communicate vital feminist themes through fashion.
Feminist issues are an important part of my work. Fashion is the way I communicate.
@anastasia.bull / www.anastasiabull.com
In this exclusive interview, we delve into Anastasia’s design philosophy, the challenges she navigates, and the vibrant ideas that shape her creations. Join us as we explore her artistic vision, the unique qualities that set her work apart, and her aspirations for the future in the ever-evolving fashion industry. Prepare to be inspired by her stories and insights, and discover how this remarkable young designer is redefining the landscape of contemporary fashion.
KALTBLUT: Tell me how you first became interested in fashion, and why you decided to become a fashion designer?.
Anastasia Bull: My interest in fashion began at an early age. I was always drawn to drawing, colour, and materials with a certain shine or texture. Around the age of 14 or 15, I started watching every fashion week show I could find, and that was the moment I knew I wanted to pursue a career as a fashion designer.
KALTBLUT: Tell me a little bit about your journey that led to you releasing your new collection?
Anastasia Bull: For me, each collection is a continuation of the last; they are all connected in some way. As I evolve as a designer, my collections evolve with me. This project began with research and concept work last winter, followed by production over the summer, supported by a wonderful team.
KALTBLUT: How would you describe your style and fashion?
Anastasia Bull: I would describe my style as opulent, ethereal, and dreamy, yet with a subtle hint of something toxic. With each collection, I aim to take up space while also creating space for others, inviting them into the atmosphere my work creates.
KALTBLUT: How did the experience of showcasing at Mode Suisse influence your design philosophy?
Anastasia Bull: Presenting my work in front of a large audience is very different from the ‘safe’ setting of a school environment. I deeply value the feedback I receive; it helps me grow and reassures me that my work resonates with others. Mode Suisse, in particular, showed me that there are people who connect with my vision, which has been incredibly encouraging.
KALTBLUT: Can you detail any specific challenges you faced while creating your collection for this event?
Anastasia Bull: As a young designer, doubt is always part of the process. It can feel vulnerable; you constantly question whether what you create makes sense and if it’s truly worth it. The work demands a lot, and the reward isn’t always logical or tangible.
KALTBLUT: What feedback have you received about your collection at Mode Suisse, and how will it impact your future work?
Anastasia Bull: I received such amazing feedback, which was truly heartwarming. Having people come up to me and share their appreciation means a lot, and I especially cherish it when it comes from young women who are just beginning their studies.”
KALTBLUT: How do you feel your collection reflects the current trends in fashion as showcased at Mode Suisse?
Anastasia Bull: I think my collection reflects current trends on a conceptual level. There’s a strong urge for feminist thinking right now, especially in response to the challenges we’re facing globally, from political shifts to the rise of right-wing movements that provoke women* to stand up again for their rights. In art and design, these conversations are very present, and I translate this urgency into volume, colour, and print.
Lookbook Photography @camilla_fivian
KALTBLUT: Were there any specific materials or techniques you experimented with in your collection for this event?
Anastasia Bull: Pleats are a constant in my work, a wonderful technique that is slow, delicate, and entirely produced here in Switzerland. For this collection, I also explored embroidery, which I enjoyed immensely and definitely plan to continue developing in future projects.
KALTBLUT: What message or story do you aim to convey with your collection presented at Mode Suisse?
Anastasia Bull: Feminist issues are an important part of my work. Fashion is the way I communicate. I’m not a writer, so I don’t use words in the same way, but I can express ideas through form, material, and design. It may not be as universal as language, but it carries meaning, and it resonates with the right people.
KALTBLUT: Are there any fashion icons who inspire your design?
Anastasia Bull: I have a deep admiration for women in design, especially given how few hold high-level creative direction roles. I love the work of designers like Simone Rocha and Charlotte Knowles, but I also find inspiration in many other fashion icons. I enjoy collaborating with young musicians as well, as they often feel a strong connection to my work, for example, Red Moon, whose universe beautifully collides with mine.
KALTBLUT: What would you say makes your design stand out against other brands?
Anastasia Bull: I believe the way I use pleats is somewhat unique, and I have a particular passion for mixing unusual colours and prints. It’s an approach that allows me to create a distinctive visual language and express my ideas through fabric and form.
KALTBLUT: Where do you find your inspiration for your work?
Anastasia Bull: I draw a lot of inspiration from history. I’m fascinated by the dark, moody aesthetics of the Victorian era, as well as the opulence of Baroque and Renaissance fashion. Lately, I’ve been watching Downton Abbey non-stop, and I think it has unconsciously influenced my work as well.
KALTBLUT: What advice would you give to people who want to experiment more with the clothes they wear?
Anastasia Bull: Just do it. It’s beautiful, and yes, it takes courage, but with fashion, you can build your own universe. It’s our body, our choice, and our expression. Be bold!
KALTBLUT: What are your favourite pieces from your collection?
Anastasia Bull: The Funeral Dress, it’s about the funeral of patriarchy. I have to say, I’ve never been so happy with a collection; I truly love every single piece, haha!
KALTBLUT: How would you describe the local fashion scene/industry in your home town/country?
Anastasia Bull: Switzerland is small, and Basel is even smaller, but we have an incredible creative community here. I love how we’ve become a little FHNW gang, including Jill Bloch and Danz. And Ba Si, who is my best friend. We studied together and have been supporting each other ever since, and I really cherish that.
KALTBLUT: What does being an independent designer mean to you?
Anastasia Bull: Exactly that, being independent is amazing! I don’t have to bow to conventions, though it also means funding is limited. Still, I feel like I’m evolving, and I’m really looking forward to the future.
KALTBLUT: If your brand were ice cream, what flavours would it be?
Anastasia Bull: Absolutely love that question. It would be a giant cup of ice cream, sesame and vanilla, drizzled with olive oil, topped with neon green sparkles and delicate sugar flowers. And yes, it would be a big, indulgent cup!
KALTBLUT: What was the last music track you listened to?
Anastasia Bull: Florence and The Machine – Dream Girl Evil
And
Paris Paloma – Labour
KALTBLUT: Finally, what can we expect to see from you in the near future?
Anastasia Bull: More. I am not done. I hope Berlin will be the next step! Stay tuned.
Model @_gannnna__ @ Audrey @calu_grey
Make up @yukiart_anisa
Hair @anastasia.bull
Intern/Assistant @runway.w.maryam @om.marinelli @_gannnna__ @ivikoe
