Renowned Russian stylist Gosha Kartsev weighed in on what might unfold for local brands now that many foreign retailers have exited Russia. He shared his perspectives during a conversation with Sobaka ru, offering a candid take on the market’s shifting dynamics.
In a fresh interview, Kartsev described the current state of the Russian fashion scene. He noted that after the retreat of international stores, a surge of new homegrown labels has appeared, yet he remains skeptical about their long-term growth and viability in a challenging economic and consumer landscape.
He acknowledged his affection for domestic brands but stressed that imports are still hard to replace. Local producers face obstacles in delivering original or concept-driven offerings, and as a result, the overall innovation pace appears slowed to him.
Kartsev also observed a surge of new storefronts, many of which he believes may struggle to sustain themselves. His assessment pointed to a crowded market where many brands compete for attention without delivering distinct value propositions that resonate with buyers over time.
From his viewpoint, the market has become saturated with similar product categories—coats, tailored suits, and straightforward essentials—while a common visual language appears to be emerging across brands and social platforms, including popular short-form video formats. He highlighted the challenge of matching or surpassing the price-to-quality balance seen in global chains for items like basic white T-shirts, noting a specific example: a white tee at one notable local label is priced around six thousand rubles, which surprised him given the expectations around value and durability.
In reflecting on broader industry narratives, Kartsev contrasted the pace of domestic brand development with the appetite of the market for fresh, original concepts. He pointed out that while people are keen to buy, it remains crucial for brands to offer something new, well-crafted, and thoughtfully positioned to stand apart in a crowded retail environment. His comments invite readers to consider how Russian fashion can evolve beyond merely filling shelves with similar silhouettes and how designers might navigate cost pressures without eroding quality. The discussion underscores a practical reality for consumers who want styles that feel both current and enduring, even as the market undergoes rapid change.
Earlier coverage referenced Kartsev alongside other well-known personalities, drawing comparisons between high-profile appearances and the fashion choices that drew public attention. The dialogue touched on notable moments from the last year, including discussions about an iconic look from a high-profile event held abroad, which sparked conversations among stylists about styling choices and the impact of red-carpet narratives on domestic designers and markets. This broader context helps illuminate how celebrity-driven moments can influence trends, supply dynamics, and consumer expectations in Russia and beyond, shaping conversations about what constitutes lasting style versus fast-moving novelty.