Discover the journey of Daniela Bozic, where creativity and flexibility have shaped over 15 years in the fashion industry. From the heart of a family atelier to international fashion stages, each collection reflects a deep commitment to craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Daniela’s designs seamlessly blend tradition with innovation, earning global recognition and awards. As she embarks on new collaborations and unveils upcoming collections, Daniela continues to redefine fashion as a medium of expression, empowerment, and enduring beauty.
You’ve had an extensive career in fashion spanning over 15 years. What inspired you to start your journey as a fashion designer?
My creativity has been a driving force throughout my journey, skilled first through my family’s fashion atelier, and enriched by diverse experiences in school, sports, dance classes, piano playing, and choir singing. Fashion has provided me with a canvas to express this innate creativity fully. It’s not just a career but a means to liberate and fulfill myself, shaping my identity and vision. Each day, life’s moments—whether joyous or challenging—inspire me to craft collections that resonate with my unique perspective and sensibility. For me, creativity is a constant wellspring of inspiration.
Can you share some of your experiences presenting your fashion lines in Serbia and how those early days shaped your career?
One crucial moment in my life stands out as a defining experience that shaped who I am today. It marked the culmination of years of passion, love, persistence, and dedication in my journey. Upon completing the Academy for Fashion and Design, I made a bold decision to invest in my entrance collection, a commitment that led me to sell my car without hesitation. Driven by unwavering belief in my craft and sustained by heartfelt conviction, this decision underscored my dedication to pursuing my dreams wholeheartedly.
My debut at Belgrade Fashion Week remains etched in my memory—a profound blend of emotions as I took to the catwalk among a standing ovation. Tears of joy and pride mirrored the challenging yet rewarding path I had treated. As they say, the lows make the highs all the more exciting.
I’ve learned that clarity of vision is outstanding. When I visualize the direction and aesthetic of my work, inspiration flows effortlessly, translating into results that not only bring me joy but also resonate with women worldwide. Every obstacle faced along this journey of love and happiness has contributed to countless memorable moments, affirming that I am on the right path.
How did your time in Saint Petersburg and other international locations influence your design aesthetic?
Travel is a fundamental aspect of my life, offering profound inspiration and improving my understanding of diverse cultures and traditions, which significantly influences my work. Each international fashion show presents a unique challenge to create innovative designs that resonate deeply with local audiences while honoring their cultural heritage.
Participating in St. Petersburg Fashion Week was a transformative experience, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Serbian medieval costumes and Russian traditional motifs. The enthusiastic reception of my ‘Imperial Insignia’ collection, highlighted by decoration from Fashion TV and Fashion One TV, was immensely gratifying. These experiences not only nourish my creativity but also connect me with remarkable individuals whose life stories and passions continue to inspire.
My dedication to fashion extends beyond creating garments; it’s about cultivating a global aesthetic that transcends borders and resonates universally.
Winning awards must have been a significant milestone. How did these recognitions impact your career and opportunities?
In the world of fashion, the journey is paved with touchable and eternal rewards that validate dedication and creativity. Recognition from peers through awards or applause and respect from clients and admirers are affirmations that drive me forward. While approvals hold significance in the fashion industry, my focus remains on innovation and boundary-pushing in my career.
My passion lies in crafting experiences and emotions through fashion, creating memorable moments that resonate deeply with my audience. Each design is an opportunity to evoke feelings of uniqueness and connection, transcending mere garments to make a lasting impact in the world of fashion.
What are some of your most significant designs, and what makes them stand out to you?
My fashion collections are a fusion of femininity, clarification, sophistication, extravagance, and elegance. Whether creating Ready to Wear or Haute Couture pieces, each garment is precisely handcrafted using traditional techniques such as decoration and woven silk. These artisanal details not only add unique value but also enhance the fascinating charm of every piece.
Recently, Fashion One TV showcased my wedding collection “Pure Love,” emphasizing its transformative impact on bridal fashion. The collection was celebrated for redefining traditional perceptions, with accolades affirming my commitment to pushing boundaries in the global fashion arena.
These acknowledgments resonate deeply, underscoring my dedication to innovation and establishing a distinctive presence in the fashion industry.
How do you find inspiration for your fashion lines, and has this evolved over the years?
Inspiration fuels my creative journey continuously. Life itself is a boundless source of ideas—travels, happiness, joy, sadness, anger, love, and the contrasting ‘black’ and ‘white’ moments all deeply influence my work. Each experience, whether positive or challenging, offers an opportunity for transformation and growth.
Navigating through life’s ups and downs teaches flexibility—how to rise after setbacks and channel emotions into something extraordinary. For me, every ‘black’ moment necessarily leads to a ‘white’ collection—a testament to overcoming adversity and translating life’s elaboration into meaningful fashion expressions.
Now that you live in Antalya and are starting to work with major Turkish companies, what new opportunities and challenges are you encountering?
Turkey has become my second home, where I split my time between Antalya and Istanbul. This expansive country offers big opportunities in fabric production and manufacturing, enriched by its inspiring historical sites, diverse people, and rich cultures. My latest collection draws inspiration from this vibrant new environment and the fresh perspectives it brings.
Transitioning from my previous European and Parisian-style collections, adapting to Turkey’s dual-continent cultural landscape has been both challenging and rewarding. Over nearly two years, I’ve occupied myself in Turkish life and fashion, navigating numerous meetings, fashion events, and engagements with industry influencers. I’m grateful for the recognition and support received from prominent figures in Turkish entertainment, which has led to exciting collaborations with major fashion houses.
Starting in a new way in a foreign land isn’t without its hurdles, but achieving recognition and forging partnerships has been ever delightful. These milestones announce my commitment to artistic growth and cultural integration in the global fashion arena.
How do you envision collaborating with Turkish companies impacting your brand and designs?
My fashion style remains constantly distinct, shaped by my unique approach to design. While cultural differences occasionally prompt adjustments, they do not alter the core of my creative vision. Unlike global fashion brands that tailor collections to specific markets, climates, and cultural implication while maintaining their signature aesthetics, I maintain a consistent fashion philosophy that reflects my identity.
My creations evolve through subtle variations while preserving their essence, ensuring continuity in craftsmanship and design integrity. This approach allows me to adapt to diverse influences while staying true to my artistic expression in the dynamic global fashion landscape.
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or collections you are excited about?
In early 2024, I actively participated in fashion events held in Serbia and Turkey. Recently, I completed a new collection, now available at Gizia, a leading fashion house in Turkey. As a resident of Turkey, I was privileged to showcase and market my collection to outstanding Turkish designers, marking a significant milestone in my journey.
After this fulfilling work, I am taking a well-deserved break to recharge before diving into preparations for the upcoming fashion season and my next collection.
What are your long-term goals for your fashion brand, and how do you plan to achieve them?
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve encountered challenges where many of my goals didn’t expand as initially predicted. However, each experience has enriched my path, leading me to unexpected benefits and personal growth. Such is the nature of planning in the dynamic world of fashion.
Despite the uncertainty, I embrace ambitious goals that sometimes evoke feelings of concern. I’ve come to respect that life’s journey often radiates from our expectations, revealing unforeseen opportunities. Moving forward, I remain committed to developing my passion, advancing my skills, and cultivating my fashion business with unwavering dedication.
As I continue to evolve, I trust that my aspirations will manifest in diverse and fulfilling ways.
How would you compare the fashion scene in Serbia to that in other countries where you’ve presented your lines?
While I maintain an objective viewpoint, Serbia enjoys a distinctive fashion culture with excellent style and talented designers. Geographically close to major European fashion capitals like Milan, Paris, London, and New York, Serbia’s fashion scene resonates globally.
Serbians exhibit a keen interest in fashion, admitting sometimes trend-focused, mirroring trends worldwide. Belgrade, particularly, attracts repeat visitors from renowned fashion cities, highlighting Serbia’s potential to ascend as a prominent fashion hub.
Despite current limitations compared to more established fashion capitals, I remain optimistic about Serbia’s future growth in the fashion industry.
What unique elements of Serbian fashion do you incorporate into your designs, and how are they received internationally?
I am passionate about integrating our cultural heritage into fashion. Traditional handmade craftsmanship, such as adornment, woven silk, wool blending, knitting, and fabric painting garments with unparalleled value. These techniques, celebrated by renowned brands like Dior, Valentino, DG, and Chanel, require exceptional skills and emotional investment, offering a unique sense of pride and connection when worn.
Respecting cultural heritage through fashion not only enriches the wearer’s experience but also honors the traditions of those who appreciate the intimate stories behind each piece. In my collections—including acclaimed works like Black Tie, Imperial Insignia, Pure Love, New Woman New Era, and Femme Sublime—I consistently feature dresses, coats, belts, shirts, and skirts crafted using traditional methods.
Recognition for excellence in fashion, such as the award received from the French Federation of Haute Couture for innovatively blending wool and silk into floral shapes, validates the artistic merit and cultural depth of these creations.
How do you see the global fashion industry evolving, and where do you see your place within it?
In today’s dynamic environment, finding my place hinges on deliberate choices influenced by various factors. Whether it’s defining what I wish to showcase, whom I aim to attract, how I present my work, or where I sell it, each decision plays a crucial role. As I continue to pursue my passion in fashion, I am guided by clarity about my preferences and openness to opportunities that come in diverse forms.
Amidst the pervasive influence of social networks, where trends and creations proliferate rapidly, there’s a risk of losing authenticity in the sea of fashion information and rules. Many individuals adopt trends without deep understanding or connection, contributing to the chaotic landscape of fashion. While social media platforms dominate as promotional tools, they may not always align with my focus on cultural heritage.
Nevertheless, adapting to contemporary times and sales methods is essential, albeit with a steadfast commitment to preserving unique production and sales approaches. Custom-made creations for specific clients exemplify this dedication, transcending the online realm to ensure exclusivity and personalization. This underscores the importance of maintaining core values and distinguishing what cannot be commodified purely through online visibility.
Balancing brand visibility with the integrity of craftsmanship remains paramount, where advertising represents our identity while respecting client preferences ultimately shapes our direction. Thus, having a customized strategy for production and sales is crucial, ensuring legitimacy and alignment with personal and professional values.
What advice would you give to young designers looking to make their mark in the fashion world?
To navigate fashion successfully, individuals should prioritize self-exploration and self-expression over blindly following trends. Embrace the journey of discovering your unique style and confidently shaping your wardrobe choices. By defining your personal aesthetic and staying true to it, you invest your clothing with originality and authenticity. Don’t let fleeting trends dictate your fashion journey—instead, empower yourself to communicate your identity through what you wear. Free your mind from external influences and embrace the freedom of self-expression in fashion.
Lastly, what does the concept of a unique lifestyle, or “UniUkiyo,” mean to you, and how does it reflect in your designs?
UniUkiyo embodies my unique lifestyle—where your energy, demeanor, style of speech, movement, and attire are all expressions of individuality. This philosophy resonates deeply within my designs.
- Website: www.danijelabozic.me.uk
- Photo: Private archive © 2024
