Tons of emotions and a big load of applause – these were the things the designer Florin Breje received at the end of his catwalk runway with his master collection, in Timișoara. And I was one of those who applauded big time. I know Florin Breje since his diploma collections (two years ago) and I was happy to see him again and to admire his collection “100%”. “I don’t think I could stop even if I wanted to, fashion is all I know and all I love to do”, says the designer. Florin Breje: 100% emotions – interview with a young designer from MDVTM.
You can find the latest collections by Florin Breje and updates on Instagram @selectiv.official, and on the personal account is @brejeflorin26. Other fashion design – diploma & master collections from MDVTM – @mdvtm.uvt.
Your collection for MDVTM 2024 gala was inspired by…
Introducing the debut collection of Selectiv. our new brand’s collection, titled 100%, merges fashion with cinematic storytelling. Drawing inspiration from Luc Besson’s film “Lucy” (2014) and the intriguing question, “What if we could utilize 100% of our neural capacity?”, this collection exemplifies an evolution in design that parallels the journey of human potential, through movie scenes. From 10% to 100%, experience the physical and artistic transformation that increased neural capacity brings to life: – 10%: The inception of existence, represented by a foetus in the womb, symbolising purity and potential. – 20%: The awakening, where we begin to feel every muscle and cell, fully embracing our physical form. – 30% to 60%: Progressive explorations of consciousness and physical prowess, each look delving deeper into the symbiosis of mind and body. – 70% to 100%: The transcendence beyond physical limitations, culminating in omnipresence and divinity, where the need for a physical body dissipates. • 100%: We are everything.
You chose this patterns and fabrics because…
I chose patterns and fabrics that reflect a diverse range of textures and aesthetics. Our selection includes both classic materials, such as thick black velvet and white taffeta, as well as more unconventional choices like 3D-printed textiles, resin-reinforced fabrics, and hand-felted works from 100% natural wool. This combination was chosen to create a tactile and visual narrative that enhances each look. We aimed to explore different textures for each design to better convey and outline the story behind it, ensuring that every piece stands out in both material and shape. Our goal was to craft a collection that is as palpable and sensory to touch as it is visually compelling, offering a unique experience with every look.
Tell me about the actual process of making the collection – how hard it was, how many hours you have spent doing it (sewing, cutting, embroidery)?
Creating this collection was a labor of love and dedication. Each piece involved meticulous sewing, precise cutting, and intricate embroidery, often requiring up to 100 hours per garment. The process was both challenging and rewarding, pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship and creativity. We spent countless days perfecting every detail, ensuring that each piece was a true work of art. One of the most complex designs, the “mother dress” required over 60 hours of hand-felting for the baby, and another 90 hours for the creation of the belly and the dress itself, totalling over 150 hours. This made it one of the most demanding pieces we crafted. Additionally, the 3D-printed dress took 14 days of continuous 24/7 printing for the front and back, 50 hours of digital creation, and another 20 hours to paint and saw the final product. Each of these efforts exemplifies our commitment to innovation and excellence in fashion design.
How can we solve the dilemma: why should we invest in a Romanian designer piece instead in one from a famous brand?
It is not our duty to persuade buyers to choose a piece from a Romanian designer. I firmly believe that quality work will naturally attract buyers from all over the world. When a creation is excellent, it will find its target audience who will appreciate and invest in both the pieces and the brand behind them. We cannot compare ourselves to a famous brand with hundreds of employees, designers, and tailors dedicated to creating new patterns and promoting their products. The scale and resources available to such brands are vast, with numerous specialists contributing to their success. In contrast, the work of an individual designer should not be measured against that of a renowned brand backed by extensive teams and infrastructure. Each piece crafted by an independent designer embodies unique creativity and personal dedication, maybe distinct from the mass-produced allure of larger brands.
Tell me one personal story related with fashion world…
I have always been captivated by dresses, ever since I was a child. The first things that amazed me were wedding dresses, so big, beautiful, and fascinating. That’s when I started making my first “sketches” simple drawings, and since then, I haven’t stopped. The moment I realised fashion was my calling was during my childhood, when I felt an irresistible pull towards creating and designing dresses. Although there were times I wanted to quit, especially during the bad days when resources were scarce and the path seemed daunting, the passion for creating something beautiful and meaningful always pulled me back. I don’t think I could stop even if I wanted to, “fashion is all I know and all I love to do”.
The piece (the pattern, cut) that will always be in your collection is…
The male jacket and its derivatives will always be a staple in my collections. Its timeless structure and versatile design provide endless opportunities for innovation and adaptation, continually inspiring my work and serving as a foundation for new creations.
One city, one song, one movie just perfect for your collection will be…
One city that embodies my collection is Paris, with its blend of classy charm and natural beauty. The song that resonates with the spirit of my designs I think is “bachelorette” by Bjork, capturing the whole collection and transformative essence of our body, I quote “I’m a fountain of blood, In the shape of a girl”. The movie is “Lucy” 2014, the film that gave life to this collection, being the main inspiration.
The designers relevant right now for you are…
The designers who are currently most relevant to me are the revolutionary Demna Gvasalia, whose work consistently pushes the boundaries of fashion. Daniel Roseberry, the creator of beauty itself, whose designs exude elegance and innovation, and Jonathan Anderson, whose craft is truly out of this world, showcasing unparalleled creativity and artistry.
What is next for you (this year, 2024, the next year)…
This year, I am focusing on expanding our brand’s reach, collaborating with talented people, and launching a new collection. In 2024, I hope to present my work on an international scale and continue to explore new creative horizons, always striving to push the boundaries of innovation and design.
