Runway
The depth and maturity of Sabina Zhusipbaeva's work, which beautifully translates the cultural heritage of Turkestan into modern clothing, juxtaposing textures, shapes, and symbols to create a layered and thoughtful narrative, breathing life into history through fashion.
Updated 05:57 pm EDT, October 16, 2025
Published 05:56 pm EDT, October 16, 2025
Photo Courtesy: Visa Fashion Week Almaty
Photographer: Epov Timur
The depth and maturity of Sabina Zhusipbaeva's work, which beautifully translates the cultural heritage of Turkestan into modern clothing, juxtaposing textures, shapes, and symbols to create a layered and thoughtful narrative, breathing life into history through fashion.
Updated 05:57 pm EDT, October 16, 2025
Published 05:56 pm EDT, October 16, 2025
Photo Courtesy: Visa Fashion Week Almaty
Photographer: Epov Timur
When I discovered sabi.j.m’s work this week while looking through photos from Visa Fashion Week in Kazakhstan, I didn’t expect to find something that felt more like a story than a fashion show. Surprisingly, at just 21 years old, Sabina Zhusipbaeva has become a finalist for the Next Designer Award Empowered by Visa. She showcased her latest collection, “Sands of Memory: Turkestan”, at Visa Fashion Week in Kazakhstan. Although I watched it online, it didn’t feel distant. Sabina explores the cultural heritage of the Turkestan region through every detail. The textures, shapes, and symbols all felt like they belonged to something special.
“I strive to create clothing that reflects character, mood, and individuality while still holding onto something meaningful,” says Sabina Zhusipbaeva. You can really see that in her work. Some looks of the collection reminded me of scenes from a historical movie with a skilled costume designer behind the scenes. In fact, I kept thinking this could be a movie, and I mean that in the best way.
One detail that really stood out was the use of light green, a color I already love. Moreover, seeing it in oversized skirts and jackets made me appreciate it even more.
What impressed me most was how young Sabina is. It’s not just her design skills; more importantly, it’s the depth and maturity behind her work. There’s a genuine sensitivity in how she connects history to her clothes. She’s almost bringing the past back to life through fashion.
One look that stayed with me was a deep red velvet outfit with a matching hat. More than anything, this collection made me curious. I want to know the stories behind the clothes, the people and places that inspired them, and where Sabina will take her ideas next. Clearly, she’s not just making clothes; she’s creating something personal, layered, and thoughtful. I’m very excited to see her future collections.
Kiki Khairy recently earned a master's degree in fashion styling & communication from IED Madrid, following his undergraduate degree in Public Relations & Communication from EU Business School Barcelona. Now working as a fashion editor, Khairy's career path reflects his dedication to the fashion industry. Born in London and with roots in Egypt, his diverse background enriches his perspective, contributing to his success in the dynamic world of fashion.
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