In a tranquil showroom, designer Dušan redefines fashion with a commitment to quality and timeless aesthetics, distancing himself from the conventional industry.
In a serene showroom tucked away from the hectic streets of Milan, designer Dušan has created a unique environment that feels more akin to an art collector’s sanctuary than a conventional fashion space. The ambience is accentuated by plush carpets, pale walls, and a bonsai garden, topped off with a display of ancient art pieces, establishing a tranquil haven amidst the bustling city. This distinct setting underscores Dušan’s approach as he forges a path outside the mainstream fashion narrative.
Dušan, an eccentric and fiercely independent figure in the fashion world, has intentionally distinguished himself from the typical runway spectacle and advertising campaigns that dominate the industry. He operates under his own funding, which keeps him at arm’s length from the billion-dollar budgets of major fashion brands while still attracting a high-profile clientele akin to that of luxury icons Hermès and Loro Piana. The designer is deeply committed to quality; most of his fabrics are sourced from these esteemed brands, emphasizing an adherence to exceptional craftsmanship.
With a background in assisting Serbian-American designer Zoran, known for his influential yet reclusive nature, Dušan has adopted a minimalist aesthetic that values loose-fitting silhouettes and an absence of overt branding. He identifies as Zoran’s “only legitimate heir,” fully embracing the ethos that has become a hallmark of his collections. These tightly curated offerings flow seamlessly from season to season, reflecting a commitment to a timeless, unadorned style that appeals to a discerning audience.
For his latest fall collection, Dušan showcased a rich assortment of fabrics, including fine Tasmanias and vicuñas, double cashmeres, and felted textiles. One highlight was a soft corduroy lined with contrasting taffeta, which he described as offering “a hint of sporty chic, though far more chic than sporty.” His penchant for understated elegance is further illustrated in a dolman-sleeved, funnel-neck sweater made from over three pounds of ultra-soft cashmere yarn, presented in understated shades of gray. To complement this, a sweeping bathrobe-style wrap coat in herringbone cashmere jersey features an enveloping design that Dušan prefers to call “understated but molto elegante,” steering clear of the term ‘luxurious.’
This season, Dušan remains generally resistant to novelty, adhering strictly to his trend-averse sensibilities. However, he did introduce a cashmere bouclé field shirt-jacket and a cropped vest, which displays a nod to classic trucker denim styles. A surprising burst of saffron yellow contrasted with his usual palette of neutral colors, white, and black, yet its future in subsequent collections remains uncertain, particularly if it gains popularity. Dušan is known for his decisive style principles; he stated, “I don’t follow where fashion is going. My style will remain the same until my last breath.”
In summary, Dušan’s latest collection encapsulates his singular vision, commitment to quality, and an unyielding design philosophy that continues to resonate with those who appreciate a departure from the mainstream fashion landscape.
Source: Noah Wire Services
