Anna October: Dressed to Date

Anna October was already a thriving brand when the war broke out in Ukraine last year. The designer lived through a harrowing period to maintain her business, ultimately settling in Paris where she remains based today. Between her focus on beautiful fabrics that create an intimacy with the body and her sensual, contemporary silhouettes, October has established a highly appealing vision of femininity that is as much about confidence as allure.

 

How would you describe your evolution as a designer/brand?

My evolution is very natural, the same as the brand. When I started 12 years ago at the age of 19, I didn't have a clear plan or a strategy; I was just eager to create beautiful clothes that would make women's lives more pleasant. This has stayed the same. But as I was working, I started questioning, and my design and brand values evolved. First, I came up with a vision of the woman I'm designing for. The problems of overproduction and the responsibility as an entrepreneur also came to my mind, and they became the basis of my design and operations decisions. Now, since I'm living between two countries – Ukraine and France – this affects my designs a lot, and I love how the collections have evolved.

 

What moment, design or collection marked a turning point for you?

I think the best moment was in 2015 when I figured out my design language. I remember it clearly when I designed open-back straps and ruffled dresses; it felt so new, and nobody was doing this. I found my writing and have been developing this since that moment. There were many special moments that followed, but this was the most memorable. My favourite part of work is new ideas and designing. I live for it.

 

What would you like us to know about this collection?

It was the first season ever I did the entire collection online because I was not able to go to Ukraine and my atelier. It was three weeks only and just photos from my laptop – a completely new way of working. We also managed to introduce a new category of outerwear and tailoring. I'm so proud of my team.

 

How does this collection evolve upon previous seasons?

I've added some depth through new fabrics, textures, outerwear and ruffles. There are many more details and I love it.

 

It’s 2025, how might you have evolved?

I hope I will manage to make my work better and make people happier. Also, I dream that in 2025, girls worldwide would think first of an Anna October dress if they want to go on a date!

 

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.