Alis, how long have you been working as a designer? Do you have a professional education?
It’s been almost 7 years I’m working and taking part in different competitions. I have graduated 2 Universities: the Academy of Fine Arts, as artist-designer and the Academy of International education as architect, engineer and designer.
Your models are often the same. Are they your friends or there are any other criteria?
At first I was in professional relations with them, however as time went by they became my friends and now we work in a more pleasant atmosphere together.
Ethereal models and femininity are seen in your works. Are you doing it on purpose? Do you believe that women should be feminine or it just happens?
Yes, I do it on purpose. I believe that a woman should be feminine and fashionable.
Where do you work now? I mean, at home or you have an office?
Sewing equipments are close to my home, as I like working at nights and at home. However, I take orders at work place, which is in Tashir shopping center, 6th floor. By the way, people can also rent clothes.
Is it possible to live in Yerevan by sewing clothes? Is it a profitable business?
That’s a serious issue. There are customers that order a dress and want it to be unique, but there are those who just rent the dress. Customers are many and all are different. Comparing to Europpean designers, the income is less in Armenia.
Are you involved in any other activity besides that?
Yes, I also do interior and exterior designs. For example, I have fully reconstructed and renovated my house. There is nothing left from the old one. It’s perfect now.
Your family and friends must be taking advantage of your skills. Do you dress them all?
No, they are not taking advantage. I do it with all my heart. As a designer I work with my sister, Liana. My mother also helps me a great deal. My friend, Lilit Arshakyan does the make-up during fashion shows. In one word, I have many helping hands.
Have you tried to make contact with foreign fashion houses? Does an Armenian designer have a chance to succeed abroad?
No, I haven’t tried, but I have plans of leaving the country. One of my classmates, Rima Kazmuryan, works at Armani fashion house now.
Are you friends with Armenian designers? Is the competition fierce?
No, I have never competed with anyone, even during competitions.
Margaryan Mariam
