I’ve always admired Fashion Designer Alexandra Popescu-York’s work. She’s a brilliant designer and always has an optimistic view on life. Even during the pandemic, where the fashion world took a big hit, she is still looking to create and inspire others. Her newest collection, a Hot Mess, focuses on vitality and hope – for us to not feel alone in this mess, but instead to stand together.

–What is it like doing a fashion show during the pandemic? What has changed?

To do a fashion show during a pandemic is almost impossible. Almost. The logistics were taken care by the production company, Flying Solo and they did an amazing job!

From the designer’s point of view, to make a collection during the pandemic is also almost impossible. Almost. To keep the wheels going, to have the optimistic spirit to create, to have the resources to invest into your collection, and for show production, marketing, production and distribution …it’s a lot!

–What was it like doing a fashion show outdoors in below 30 degrees?

Obviously, it was very hard. Normally speaking, it was very difficult to be outside in the cold for more than 5 minutes, fully dressed. But to tell you the truth, I didn’t feel the cold a bit because my adrenaline was so high. I felt great vibes, excitement and accomplishment!

–What is your collection about? I see a lot of pink!
The inspiration behind the collection is an uplifting message, a much-needed brightness. My collection’s message of vitality and hope. Hence, the bright colors – fuchsia, bright pink and purple!

I named this collection “HOT MESS.” I think we’re a little shaken up, a little afraid, a little bored, a little messed up from the pandemic but, that doesn’t mean we can’t be A HOT MESS.

My collection has 2 messages. The message to 1) “Get up from the dormant state, shake the negativity that’s all around us, let the sun kiss you, smell the flowers, put on a beautiful outfit, feel comfortable and enjoy your life to the fullest!” ( vitality) – but, also 2) a message from a close friend saying “It’s going to be OK!” (hope).

I added a little irony and sense of humor in all my collection. I think these times we need it the most. This collection is a very special one because it’s the first collection that I made since the pandemic started. As an artist, I tend to be very emotional and emphatic with the situation that the whole world is in. The whole world is suffering and we cannot ignore it.

2020 was a terrible year. There were times when I feared for my life and my family’s life. That being said, I chose to rise up and fight in my own way, as an artist and designer, to FIGHT FEAR, to try to inspire myself and others for a bright and beautiful future.

I chose to rise up and fight in my own way, as an artist and designer, to FIGHT FEAR, to try to inspire myself and others for a bright and beautiful future.

– Alexandra Popescu-York, Fashion Designer

–What advice do you have for fashion designers and models during the pandemic?
We are taking one day at a time. It’s very hard for everyone. Just be safe, be strong, this too shall pass.

-Can you see yourself participating in another fashion show in September 2021?
Yes, of course! The shows are a very important part of my life! They give me reason to keep going, they give me life. They are a marketing investment, and more importantly for me a way to express my life as an artist and designer. I see fashion and art as one of the most important things in life, without it, our lives would be so dull.

What do you think about the Hot Mess collection?!

Love always,

Jenny A.