The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2024 - Issue 35

bitefashion GUDU Power of AWoman F emale empowerment is the core of the Kyiv-based fashion brand GUDU created through its exquisitely tailored looks. It was founded by prominent Geor- gian designer Lasha Mdinaradze in 2015, whose self-sufficient designs of eye-catching silhouettes and strong shapes don’t need additional accessories to complete the look. “At the heart of all my designs is the woman,” the de- signer declared. “I aspire to create pieces that highlight her strength and individuality.” Lasha graduated from lakob Nikoladze Art College and the State Academy of Arts in Tbilisi and studied at the Accadem- ia Italiana in Florence. He won the Be Next competition for young designers and worked on the Merali by GUDU and UGLY (U Gotta Love Yourself) labels. His costume design background delivers an innovative and bold artistic vision. It includes creating costumes for principal dancers Kateryna Kukhar and Alexander Stoyanov in The Nutcracker at the Na- tional Opera of Ukraine. Like his native Ukrainian counterparts, the designer who calls the country his fashion home managed to maintain a sense of routine to help him psychologically withstand the stress of seeing Kyiv torn apart by the Russian attacks. “It is