Magdalena Stoyanova
Fashion BA Hons
Northumbria University
Specialisms: Atelier - Pattern Cutting / Womenswear / Accessories
Location: Sofia, Bulgaria
Magdalena Stoyanova
First Name: Magdalena
Last Name: Stoyanova
Specialisms: Atelier - Pattern Cutting / Womenswear / Accessories
Sectors:
My Location: Sofia, Bulgaria
University / College: Northumbria University
Course / Program Title: Fashion BA Hons
About
I am Magdalena, a fashion graduate from Northumbria University, born and raised in Bulgaria. As a Bulgarian navigating life abroad, I have come to realise the profound impact that my heritage has on my sense of self and I often find myself looking at Bulgaria’s cultural treasures for inspiration. My specialism is pattern cutting and I specifically enjoy taking inspiration from shapes and motifs and translating them into wearable clothing. I consider myself a maximalist, adopting various techniques, such as tailoring, laser cutting, laser etching and colour blocking. My design aesthetic is a juxtaposition between masculine hints and feminine silhouettes, ultimately creating structured elegant looks. I like to explore versatility in garments through multi-purpose transformative designs and offer endless possibilities for styling and wearing. Looking at accessories as my armour, I enjoy designing accessories to accompany my garments, further solidifying the story I want to tell.
Introducing BACK TO THE ROOTS, a sustainable fashion collection that beautifully marries contemporary pattern cutting methods with the rich heritage of Bulgarian craft. Drawing inspiration from the intricate geometric forms and motifs found in traditional Bulgarian rug making and weaving, this collection is a heartfelt homage to my roots and the strong women who have shaped my life. Through meticulous pattern cutting, tailoring, laser cutting, and etching techniques, I have reimagined and breathed new life into these age-old patterns. Colour blocking techniques ensure that my garments remain vibrant, while multi-purpose designs offer endless possibilities for styling and wearing. From versatile dresses to functional aprons, each piece tells a story of creativity, tradition, and respect.
Competitions
Global Creative Graduate Showcase 2024
"Love from Sofia" takes us to the streets of my hometown Sofia and to my childhood dream – becoming a gymnast. Inspired by the rich architecture, the collection explores the tram lines, domes and arches in the city’s landscape. It incorporates creative pattern cutting and leather laser cutting, creating intricate and flattering curves, reminding of the domes of Sofia’s symbol - the Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Combined with variety and textures and a soft pastel colour palette, I created a collection, that represents the richness and beauty of my hometown, combined with the femininity and elegance of the Bulgarian gymnasts.
“Bloom” is inspired by my experience during my placement year. Spending the spring and summer months in magnificent Amsterdam and getting to experience the tulip season inspired me to create a collection, that transforms the beauty and delicacy of my favourite flowers into wearable creations. The project explores the ballerina as muse and and the signature tutu dress as hero piece.