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laia aidar bestene

IED Istituto Europeo Di Design

I’m 22 years old and originally from the south of Argentina, where I grew up surrounded by wind, mountains, and women who sewed. Since I was very young, fashion has been part of my life thanks to my grandmother and my mother, who taught me that a garment can be much more than something functional, it can tell stories, carry emotions, and become a form of identity. At 18, I moved to Barcelona to study Fashion Design, a decision that deeply transformed how I see the world and how I create. I graduated in June 2025 with a proposal that merges haute couture with urban fashion, exploring themes such as transformation, empowerment, and the construction of the self. My work is defined by a structured and conceptual aesthetic, where the use of recycled materials, especially leather, becomes a symbolic tool of strength, resilience, and consciousness. During my studies, I completed internships in Berlin with independent brands such as Josefina Studio and Therapy, where I refined my skills in upcycling, pattern-making, and artisanal garment construction. My graduation collection, Forged Identity, was selected to represent my school in a European competition for emerging designers, standing out for its emotional depth, strong visual language, and sustainable approach. For me, designing is both an intimate and rebellious act. It’s a way to tell my own story, but also to create space for others to express theirs through what they wear.

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.