Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alima Botasheva. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Alima thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of the most meaningful projects I have worked on is my collection of handcrafted ostrich feather handbags, which are now exclusively showcased in flagship Ralph Lauren stores and sell for $1,900 to $2,600 each. This project represents years of dedication to craftsmanship, historical techniques, and the revival of timeless elegance in fashion accessories.

The idea for these handbags was inspired by my fascination with the opulence of the 1920s—the world of The Great Gatsby, old Hollywood glamour, and the artistry of a time when fashion was deeply intertwined with self-expression. I wanted to create something that felt like a relic of that era yet seamlessly fits into modern luxury fashion. The handbags, crafted with antique European metal frames and delicate ostrich feathers, merge history with contemporary craftsmanship, making each one not just an accessory but a collectible piece of art.

However, bringing this vision to life was not without challenges. Sourcing antique and vintage frames that are structurally sound and aesthetically striking is an ongoing difficulty, as each piece must be carefully restored and repurposed. Additionally, working with ostrich feathers requires precision, as they need to be secured without losing their natural softness and movement. Instead of relying on modern mass-production techniques, I use historical European craftsmanship methods, ensuring that each handbag is entirely hand-sewn, just as luxury accessories were created in past centuries.

What makes this project so significant is that it represents the values I stand for—reviving lost artisanal techniques, creating sustainable luxury, and crafting accessories that feel like heirlooms. Seeing my work recognized and displayed in Ralph Lauren stores, with collectors eagerly seeking out each unique design, has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It reaffirms my belief that there is a place for slow, intentional craftsmanship in today’s fast-moving fashion industry.

Alima , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Fashion is more than just an industry—it is a language of identity, craftsmanship, and storytelling. My journey in fashion began in my hometown of Cherkessk, Russia, where I was drawn to the art of garment creation from a young age. I pursued formal education at Saint Petersburg State University of Industrial Technologies and Design, one of the most prestigious institutions for fashion and textile design in Russia. But my true education came from hands-on experiences—working with top Russian fashion brands like Araida, participating in Moscow Fashion Week, and contributing to luxury couture collections for high-profile clients.

Today, I am based in New York City, working with Ralph Lauren, where I specialize in luxury tailoring and custom garment creation for exclusive clientele, including red carpet celebrities and high-net-worth individuals.
As a fashion designer and expert tailor, my work goes beyond aesthetics—I focus on precision, functionality, and timeless elegance.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My mission is to preserve the artistry of fashion’s past while reinterpreting it for the present. In an industry increasingly dominated by fast fashion and mass production, I am committed to creating pieces that tell a story—pieces that feel timeless, precious, and personal.

Sustainability plays a significant role in my work. By sourcing and repurposing antique and vintage frames, I ensure that these beautiful materials are not lost to time but are instead given new life in a way that honors their history. Every bag I create is a rejection of disposable fashion, instead embracing the philosophy of slow fashion—crafting high-quality, collectible accessories meant to be cherished for generations.

Beyond the craftsmanship, my goal is to challenge conventional luxury by proving that true exclusivity comes from artistry and history, not just branding. I want my clients to feel as though they are holding a piece of fashion history in their hands, something with a soul, rather than just another seasonal trend.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

For artists and creatives to thrive, there needs to be greater appreciation and investment in craftsmanship, originality, and independent creators. One of the biggest challenges in today’s industry is the pressure for artists to commercialize their work at an unsustainable pace, often leading to compromised quality and creative burnout.

Society can support artists by fostering a culture that values longevity over trend cycles. Consumers play a key role in this—choosing to invest in high-quality, handmade products rather than mass-produced alternatives ensures that traditional craftsmanship survives. Education is also crucial. Fashion history, textile arts, and hands-on design techniques should be more widely taught, so the next generation of designers is equipped not just with digital skills but also with an appreciation for the artistry of handwork.

Additionally, major fashion houses and retailers should create more opportunities for independent artists to collaborate, much like my ongoing work with Ralph Lauren. When established brands recognize and uplift emerging talent, it opens doors for creatives to showcase their work to a larger audience without having to sacrifice their artistic integrity.

True artistic innovation happens when creatives are given the time, space, and resources to experiment, refine their craft, and create work that is deeply meaningful rather than just profitable. Supporting independent artists, preserving historical techniques, and valuing originality over replication is the key to a thriving creative ecosystem.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alima__botash/
• Other: Just Instagram