Alexandra Soloviov is the founder of the Sasha Sesame brand, renowned for its production of leather accessories, including belts, harnesses, and bags. With a background in the fashion industry, Alexandra decided to further her academic journey after more than a decade, returning to the Technical University of Moldova to complete her education with a master’s degree in Fashion and Textile Design, which she recently graduated from.
During her studies, in search of sustainable alternatives to natural leather, Alexandra created a biomaterial suit made of natural wool, alginate, and other natural ingredients, which is completely biodegradable. Tests showed that all ingredients decomposed in three days.
“I’m not sure yet how I will integrate this biomaterial into my current business, but I can say I’ve taken the first steps. I created an outfit from biomaterial that was showcased at the Moldova Brands Runway in March 2024, worn by the director of the ZIPHOUSE Fashion Hub,” said Alexandra.
Motivated by the need to update her knowledge and stay current with industry trends and innovations, Alexandra chose the master’s program in Fashion and Textile Design. This program, developed by UTM and ZIPHOUSE Fashion Hub with the support of the Future Technologies Project funded by USAID, Sweden, and the UK, provided the perfect opportunity for her to enhance her skills.
“Even though I already had a degree in fashion and was working in the field, I felt that after so many years since graduating, I needed an upgrade to understand contemporary trends, tools, and innovations,” Alexandra shared.
Alexandra vividly recalls the day she discovered the announcement about the master’s program on social media. The next day, she applied to UTM and simultaneously launched her brand, Sasha Sesame.
“I immediately felt that I found what I was looking for – a comprehensive course that develops you in multiple ways. Looking back, I can confidently say that the master’s was the best decision I could have made, as it provided new perspectives for the direction of my business. The fact that 70% of the professors are active experts in the field, both from Moldova and abroad, ensured the highest quality of education,” she said.
The master’s program is designed to prepare future professionals in the fashion industry to tackle challenges related to the industry’s negative impact on the environment and society and to develop sustainable solutions. The light industry is among the top three most polluting sectors.
The courses studied in the program include: Theory of Fashion Design; Forms and Representation in Design; CAD Systems in Garment Manufacturing; Advanced Techniques in Textile Design; Specialized Design Software; Innovations through Biodesign; Advanced Textile Manufacturing Technologies; Sustainability in Circular Fashion; Advanced Styling and Composition; Smart Clothing; Product Promotion and Visual Communication; Business Development.
“I learned so many new things, and one of the most useful aspects was the specialized software. These tools allow for designing new models digitally, which saves time and resources, and most importantly, helps protect the environment,” said Alexandra. She added that since mastering the software, she has completely forgotten what it’s like to cut patterns manually on graph paper.
Graduates of this master’s program can work as fashion designers, fashion stylists, construction engineers, managers, or art directors of a fashion brand. “I am sure this field can provide anyone with a job at home,” the graduate is convinced.
“At UTM, we encourage a dynamic curriculum, in step with the needs and trends of the industry. Innovation is our central element; we ensure that we constantly evolve to prepare future design professionals to face contemporary challenges,” says Sergiu Tronciu, Dean of the UTM Faculty of Design.
“In the world of fashion, creativity and innovation are the keys to success. At ZIPHOUSE, we pride ourselves on working in partnership with UTM to offer a master’s program in fashion that leverages talents and develops skills in a stimulating and professional environment. Enroll now and be ready to turn your passion into a brilliant career in the fashion industry!” encourages Carolina Tulgara, director of ZIPHOUSE Fashion Hub.
“Education is key to transforming the fashion industry into a more sustainable and innovative one. By supporting and promoting the master’s program at UTM, we commit to shaping future leaders of the fashion industry who will integrate principles of sustainability and innovation into all aspects of their work. Our involvement aims to collaboratively build a more sustainable and responsible future for the fashion industry,” emphasized Doina Nistor.
If you are passionate about fashion, do not hesitate to apply for the Master’s in Fashion and Textile Design. Admission at UTM takes place from July 22-29, 2024. More information about the study offer can be found on ziphouse.utm.md.
Source: moldova.org
