Meet Alima Botasheva | Fashion Designer and Fitter & Tailor
We had the good fortune of connecting with Alima Botasheva and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Alima, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued a career in fashion because I’ve always believed in the power of clothing to tell stories and empower people. Growing up in a conservative town in Russia, I felt a deep desire to express myself in ways that went beyond the traditional expectations placed on women. Fashion became my outlet for individuality, creativity, and, ultimately, change.
What excites me most about fashion is the opportunity to collaborate with other creatives, whether it’s tailors, fabric makers, or designers, to bring a vision to life. The beauty of fashion is that it’s not a solitary endeavor—it’s built on teamwork and shared creativity. Moving to the U.S. and working with Ralph Lauren deepened my love for this collaborative process, and it’s something I aim to continue as I build my own brand.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My work in fashion is centered on creating timeless, luxurious designs that blend craftsmanship with an ethical approach. What sets me apart is my commitment to sustainable fashion—I focus on using ethically sourced materials and ensuring that every piece is built to last, both in terms of quality and design. I believe that true luxury should not come at the expense of the environment or the people who create the garments, and this philosophy is at the core of everything I do.
One of the things I’m most proud of is my journey from working with luxury fashion brands in Russia, like Araida, to now being part of the Ralph Lauren team in New York, where I’ve had the opportunity to work on custom garments for high-profile clients, including pieces for the Oscars 2023. It’s been a challenging path, especially making the transition from Russia to the U.S., but those challenges have shaped me into the designer I am today.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success in fashion comes from collaboration. At Ralph Lauren, I’ve worked closely with tailors, pattern makers, and artisans, and I’ve come to realize that each person involved in the design process brings something invaluable. This has influenced my vision for my own brand, where I aim to foster a sense of community and mentorship—helping emerging designers find their voice while contributing to an ethical fashion industry.
What I want the world to know about my brand is that it stands for more than just luxury fashion—it’s about creating something meaningful, sustainable, and empowering for the people who wear it and for the community behind it. I’m excited to continue expanding my work and share my designs with the world.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend visited, I’d take them on a mix of fashion, art, and food experiences. We’d explore Manhattan’s Garment District and Ralph Lauren’s Flagship Store, visit art galleries in Chelsea, and enjoy the Whitney Museum. A day in Brooklyn’s DUMBO and SoHo for shopping. We’d finish with a relaxing day in Central Park and dinner at Tavern on the Green.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have been incredibly fortunate to have the support of so many people along my journey. First and foremost, I want to recognize my parents. They have been my biggest supporters, always encouraging me to pursue my passion for fashion, even when it didn’t align with traditional expectations in my hometown. Their belief in me, combined with their emphasis on education and self-discipline, laid the foundation for everything I’ve accomplished.
Professionally, I owe a great deal to the team at Ralph Lauren. Working alongside such talented designers, tailors, and artisans has refined my craft and shown me the power of collaboration. I’ve learned that fashion is not a solo endeavor—it’s a team effort. Every person involved, from the fabric makers to the pattern designers, contributes to the final product. I’m grateful for their mentorship and guidance, which have shaped the designer I am today.
Finally, I want to give a shoutout to the fashion community in New York and beyond. The creative energy, the collaborations, and the opportunities I’ve encountered here have been invaluable. I’m excited to continue working with other creatives and emerging designers, as mentorship is something I believe deeply in.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alima__botash/
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