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Nina Drako: A Fashion Visionary
Nina Drako is synonymous with grand fashion shows and spectacular events in Belarus. With numerous projects under her belt, she has consistently pushed the envelope in the Belarusian fashion industry. As a talented director, head of the Nagorny Models podium school, and recipient of prestigious awards, Nina stands at the helm of fashion productions both in Belarus and abroad. Her school has produced world-class models year after year. Nina shares her insights on directing, the stars of Nagorny Models, and the evolution of the runway.
Balancing Roles: Director and School Head
Nina Drako harmoniously balances her roles as the director of a model school and a fashion show director. “When you love what you do, it stops being work and becomes a way of life,” she explains. This passion has been a driving force in her career, which began with teaching stage presence to models and eventually led to the creation of the Nagorny Models podium school.
Nina’s background in acting and directing from the Belarusian Academy of Arts has deeply influenced her approach to fashion. Her fascination with theater started in school and has since evolved into a lifelong love affair with the arts.
The Nagorny Models Family
Twenty years ago, the Nagorny Models team was young and ambitious, fresh out of institute. This creative, passionate, and professional collective aimed to make a significant impact in the fashion industry. Over the years, they have learned from each other, growing together as a family.
“We are still together,” Nina says proudly. “Only those who moved abroad for personal reasons have left. We are a family, supporting and critiquing each other, laughing together—it’s invaluable.”
The Role of a Director
For Nina, directing is about bringing out what is already present. “The backstage should remain behind the scenes,” she asserts. “Conflicts may arise, but if I believe in something, I will see it through to the end.”
Nina immerses herself in every detail of a show, from lighting and sound to the models’ performances. She compares models to actors, emphasizing their ability to convey energy and emotion on the runway. “Each model is unique and irreplaceable, like instruments in an orchestra,” she explains.
The Evolution of Modeling
“Fashion is everywhere, and models are ordinary people immersed in this world,” Nina observes. Today’s models are diverse, with unique and captivating features that set them apart. “Beauty is not just about appearance; it’s about personality,” she adds.
Communication with Models
Nina’s strategy for communicating with models is simple: “I love them, and that says it all!” She wants models to feel confident and radiant on the runway, sharing that energy with the audience. “Before a show, models should be pampered by makeup artists, hairstylists, and designers,” she says.
Brands Fashion Show vs. Belarus Fashion Week
The Brands Fashion Show (BFS) is a fashion festival akin to indie cinema, focusing on the designer’s story and style. In contrast, Belarus Fashion Week (BFW) is more about presenting seasonal collections. “BFS is not tied to a season; we want to introduce the author,” Nina explains.
Nina is particularly proud of her friendship with Avtandil, a designer from Georgia. “He is incredibly emotional, and his collections reflect that,” she says. “Avtandil participated in the debut BFS, and I am confident that the next show will be just as impressive.”
Collaboration with Belarusian Designers
Nina views designers as storytellers through their clothing. “Each designer has a unique style and personality,” she notes. She appreciates the diversity of Belarusian designers, such as Lena Tsokalenko, Yulia Latushkina, and Apti Eziev.
“Belarusian fashion exists, and I am happy to work with its creators,” Nina states. “Each designer has a unique story, and when models wear their creations, we see a range of emotions and moods.”
The Future of Fashion Shows
Fashion shows have evolved into full-fledged productions. However, Nina believes that not every designer needs a grand spectacle. “Sometimes, a simple presentation is enough,” she concludes.
For more information on Nina Drako and her work, visit her official website.
