Diana Paukštytė prepares a distinctive Vilnius show inspired by historic costumes

Diana Paukštytė wants audiences at Vilnius Fashion Week’s ELLE Iconic Night to dream about her collection, its atmosphere and the world she has created. The designer will present the work on September 2 in the courtyard of Vilnius’s Palace of the Grand Dukes, as part of an evening themed “Dream, Vilnius, Dream.”

“

My creative work is distinguished by a dark, melancholic, slightly mystified and at the same time fragile feminine aesthetic.

Paukštytė describes her creative language as dark, melancholic, slightly mystified and fragile, while also feminine. Her collections combine avant-garde style, powerful modern shapes, oversized silhouettes, black clothing and abundant detail. She says she aims to build an atmosphere where fragility, mystery and strength meet.

The designer, who was born and raised in Vilnius’s Viršuliškės district, began her career in 2006 after winning first place in a young designers’ competition with her first collection. In 2008, she won a cash prize and the opportunity to take part in the Mados infekcija fashion event. She identifies those achievements as an important starting point in her career.

“

I am always inspired by historic costumes and their various details, which are now almost no longer used.

Paukštytė says runway collections appeal to her more than ready-to-wear work because they allow her to create without rules and follow her imagination. Historic costumes remain a constant source of inspiration, particularly collars, lace, decorative elements, puffed tulle skirts and long dresses. Her current challenge is to create and deliver a strong collection for Vilnius Fashion Week, which runs from August 28 to September 7 and includes shows by Lithuanian and international designers, discussions and a Sustainable Fashion Day.

“

I would like viewers to dream about my collection, its atmosphere, mood and the world I created.