To say that you’re a legend in your native land of Croatia is quite the understatement. You’re well accomplished, both musically and as a designer. When did your love for the arts begin and how did you start to turn it into a business?
I was born in Dalmatia, in a small town called Metković, located between Dubrovnik and Split. Those of us from this province have a hard work ethic built into our genes, which has allowed many of us to realize our dreams and goals of success to fruition. In the 1980’s, my love of fashion began. During the 80’s money was tight, but the era allowed a freedom in clothing that could be afforded, seeing that so much of the artistic freedom and expression though clothing came from inspiration from the street scene. Traveling was not really an option for me at the time due to finances, but that in turn brought out my true creativity and revealed my true hidden talent. I’ve been blessed. Many people never get the opportunity because they never get discovered. I was lucky to be recognized by the art community in Zagreb.
My career actually started in music. I was the lead singer of an alternative rock band called, Trotakt Project. It was in 1981 that I moved to Zagreb and we had our first solo concert. Times were different then, there was no social media or television advertisements. Nonetheless, things were happening slowly but surely. My first fashion line was based on those times. In the early 90’s war broke out in Croatia; but by the mid 90’s when Croatia started on the path to economic renewal, I thought of having a little business. It took a lot of time, perseverance, work and faith, but the timing was right. I was far from having a lot of money, but I started getting some singing gigs and earning enough money to purchase some fabrics. Little by little, one dress at a time I started my first collection. My way has always been different, and I always created my own lane no matter what other people thought. It turns out I was correct, because it is what ultimately drove my designs to Hollywood. My fashion line has really come to fruition throughout the last 10 years, but it has been 25 years in the making.
How has music influenced your career as a designer and how have you been able to incorporate it in the dresses and gowns you’ve created?
There is a harmony between music and fashion, and my creations stem from the same place. My life partner, Jurica Popović, who was also the co-founder of Trotakt Project, is still my major collaborator. His music, even to this day, has provided every soundtrack to all of my fashion shows. Together we have been changing the music. Every time life brings on new challenges, so changes his music and my creations. His music is the essential component when I think of my collection. With its strength and romance, we have relied on that atmosphere for our inspiration. On the music scene, as in fashion, there is wealth and freedom to express yourself, we are borderless. Just as there are many types of music, there are just as many styles of fashion, but both still allow you to be able to convey the same message to the world. You can really go to the outer limits to connect to the heart of your audience.
What we love about your designs is that no matter how intricate, elaborate and larger than life your dresses may be, there’s always a level of femininity and class that is clearly seen. Why is this aspect of your creations so important to you?
Thank you, I am happy you see that in my work. The idea of a woman’s beauty within the world of fashion has been constantly changing throughout history. Every woman is a goddess and that is where I focus with my brand. For me, the attention is in the details, I use only the finest silks and lace, even if I can only afford to purchase enough fabric for two dresses. I will not compromise. I love to enhance a woman’s beauty with the fabrics. I make every piece and all of the details with my own hands. At the end of the day, our femininity enhances our sexuality, beauty and power. I did not grow up in glitz and glamour, though I always admired it. So, I am thrilled to give it to my clients.
To sustain a business, especially in the fashion industry is not easy. There’s competition, great quality brands and fast fashion all mixed in. What are some of the challenges you face as a designer and how are you able to stay competitive and still maintain your authenticity as a brand?
Honestly, here, none of this is a problem. I live in a country with 4 million people, so there isn’t a major fashion industry. Fashion, in the sense of industrialization and commercialization have never been one of our countries major interests. Since I started my line, I have been in complete control of the production of every dress and its uniqueness. It may interest you to know that I have never made the same evening dress twice. I spend 12 hours a day in the atelier, until I am satisfied with my applications. I never seem to tire out when I am focused and working. I am known for this. My authenticity is un-compromised, that is why my clients love my work.
Based on your experience thus far, what advice would you give to other fashion designers getting into the industry?
I would say, take your time and do things right. It takes dedication every single day to do your work, and you must continuously be learning. It is vital to outline your plan and goals with your abilities. The fashion world is both divine and cruel. If you are not in love, and if doing this work doesn’t bring you great excitement, look into something else.
What kind of woman will want to wear Matija Vuica?
The one who can recognize the character of the dress, because the garments have character. My dresses are for a woman that wants to be seen above all else, because the admiration of a woman is the most important and also one who can recognize power and positive energy.
Besides wearing your own brand, what other designers and styles appeals to your personality the most?
I wear mostly my designs to events, but I do wear different designers too. I cannot say that I favor one line. I don’t purchase because of the designer, I purchase what I like. I do like Australian designer, Ellery. I enjoy British fashion house, Marquis Almeida by Portugueses designers Marta Marques and Paolo Almeida, and Swiss fashion house, Vetement. But, if you really want to know the truth, I am an absolute freak for shoes! I have a massive collection and I still cannot get enough. I go by the well known saying “A woman can carry a bag, but it is the shoe that carries the woman.” I love to mix colors and styles. I wear what I feel good in, but you will never see me without high heels on my feet.
One of your most recent accomplishments includes having several of your dresses on the Oscars red carpet this year. How thrilling was that for you to witness?
I had been given a call by Ivan Bitton Style House, he represents my line in Los Angeles. He informed me that my gowns had been chosen by three different stars to be worn for the event. Of course, I was overjoyed! I called my friend and PR agent, Zvona Vuković to come over to my house to watch the Oscars with me. I made some crepes and we got ready for the show. It is an absolute honor no matter where you are from in this world, to have one of your dresses worn there. But, I was honored to have three beautiful women wearing my dresses to this prestigious event. I am the first Croatian designer to ever be worn at The Oscars. The stars were truly on my side and I am grateful for my reps, Zvona and Ivan who look after me and my line.
This interview is also the result of them and their wonderful energies that merged together. Working with REGARD Magazine and shooting with Dimitry Loiseau in Zagreb, was a wonderful day I will never forget. Thank you for that.
We can’t wait to see more from you. What new projects do you have coming up in the near future?
It is wedding season, so I am currently busy with my wedding dresses. But, at the same time, I am expanding my new collection. I am currently looking for a new location for my fashion show. The last few years I have held it at the magnificent Trakoscan Castle, but it is hard to out do that one. Croatia is beautiful, so I know there will not be any problems finding a new location. And I definitely have plans to come and visit Los Angeles!
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