Meet with
Elvin Aliyev

Biography

Elvin Aliyev's designs go beyond mere clothing; they are a challenge to the established norms of Azerbaijan's fashion. At just 23, this former civil engineer has traded blueprints for patterns, driven by a passion to redefine what fashion can be in his homeland. "I'm trying to tell a story by the clothes," he explains, a sentiment that resonates deeply with his unique, character-driven designs.

Growing up, fashion was a family affair. His mother, Ruhiyya Aliyeva, a seasoned figure in the industry and the driving force behind Azerbaijan Fashion Lab, ignited Elvin’s creative spark. Despite his engineering studies, the allure of fashion proved too strong. "Like fashion comes from family. That's all I can say," Elvin reflects, acknowledging the profound influence of his upbringing.

Elvin's approach is a breath of fresh air in an industry often dominated by mass production. He champions "quality over quantity," crafting limited, meticulously designed pieces that speak to a deeper artistic vision. "I don't want to mass produce anything. I want this to be my art," he declares, emphasizing his commitment to creating authentic, personalized clothing from scratch.

Each garment, often born from post-apocalyptic concepts, is designed to evoke a narrative, creating a deeper connection with the wearer. "A lot of people think that it's the weird stuff I do. Nobody would wear them, but that's not I'm trying to do," Elvin clarifies. "I'm trying to maybe raise awareness as well about the world." His designs, showcased at Baku Fashion Week, are a testament to his bold, unconventional style.

Beyond his personal brand, @elvinaliyevstudios, Elvin is a key figure at Azerbaijan Fashion Lab, a hub for aspiring designers. He's passionate about sharing his knowledge, particularly in pattern making, a skill he believes is crucial for creating truly unique clothing. "We want to teach people how to make patterns the best way possible," he states, highlighting the lab's commitment to education and craftsmanship.

Elvin's vision extends beyond individual success. He aims to elevate Azerbaijani fashion on the global stage, showcasing the country's talent and creativity. "I want to make it globally known that I'm from Azerbaijan," he shares.

His advice to aspiring young professionals within his field is a call to embrace authenticity and craftsmanshp. "Learn how to make clothes," he emphasizes, quoting Rick Owens, a sentiment that underscores his dedication to the technical aspects of design. He also encourages collaboration and a spirit of healthy competition, believing it will elevate the entire industry. Elvin's journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion and the importance of creating art with integrity. He is crafting a legacy, one meticulously designed piece at a time.