Platon Ermolayev is a young designer and the winner of the BRICS Games.

      An interview with a young designer who has already achieved notable success on an international level. We talked to Platon about his journey into the world of fashion, inspiration, future plans, and his view on modern design.

      Magazine: Platon, tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to clothing design?

      Platon:

      I have always enjoyed coming up with something new. When the opportunity to study in a design class arose, I realized that I wanted to try creating not just pictures, but real things—clothes that can be worn. Design for me is a way to express myself and inspire those around me.

      Magazine: You are studying in the 10th grade of the HSE Lyceum in the Design direction. How does studying in such a class influence your creativity?

      Platon:

      The education gives me a lot of new knowledge and tools. We study not only drawing techniques but also the history of fashion, and we create projects. There are many talented kids in the class, and this motivates me to develop, see competition, and grow further.

      Magazine: You already have your own clothing collection, and you became a laureate of the All-Russian Designers Competition. What inspired you to create this collection?

      Platon:

      I try to create clothes that are suitable for an active life, where it is comfortable to study, communicate, and create. Bright colors, unusual shapes, and details reflect my character and my generation. I draw inspiration from the city, music, and contemporary art.

      Magazine: You became the winner of the Creative Games of BRICS countries in the "Fashion" nomination and chose the theme of China for your sketch. Why China? What elements of Chinese culture did you include in your works?

      Platon:

      I have always been interested in Chinese culture—its combination of traditions and modernity. In my sketches, I tried to combine classic Chinese elements—such as the color red, patterns, and silhouettes—with modern street style. I wanted to show that culture can be relevant and fashionable today.

      Magazine: Your sketches received high praise from the jury, and you became the curator of the winners' collection. What did you learn in the role of curator of the collection?

      Platon:

      It was a great experience—sharing ideas, the selected works needed to be brought into a unified style and visualized in 3D graphics, keeping the concept of the entire collection in mind at once. I learned to listen to others, explain my thoughts, work in a team, and not be afraid of responsibility.

      Magazine: Your clothes were sewn and shown at the winners' award ceremony. What feelings did you experience when you saw your pieces on the runway?

      Platon:

      It was pure delight! When your idea becomes a reality, and others see it—that's amazing. I was proud of the team and happy that everything turned out as planned.

      Magazine: How would you describe your style? What features make your collection unique and modern?

      Platon:

      My style is a combination of brightness, comfort, and functionality. I love experimenting with color and form. It is important to me that the clothes not only look striking but are also practical for young people's lives today.

      Magazine: What are your plans for the near future? Do you plan to continue your education and develop your brand?

      Platon:

      I want to continue my education in fashion and design, seek new forms and materials, and develop my collection. I dream of releasing a capsule collection and possibly working with well-known brands.

      Magazine: What is the most important thing for you in the profession of a designer? What advice could you give to other teenagers who dream of fashion?

      Platon:

      The most important thing is not to be afraid to experiment and to be yourself. I think it is essential for everyone to find their style and believe in it. I advise trying, participating in competitions, showcasing your ideas, and not stopping.

      Magazine: What collections or individual designers inspire you today?

      Platon:

      I am inspired by brands that focus on innovation and sustainability, such as Stella McCartney. Among Russian designers, I like Gosha Rubchinskiy—he showed how to make fashion youthful and relevant.

      Magazine: Thank you very much, Platon! We wish you creative success and bright collections!