Barbara Oliveira da Silva

Hi guys, my name is Babih 芭比 (yes, like Barbie). I’m from the northwest of Brazil, from Piauí to be more specific. I left my parents’ home when I was only 14 years old, so I had to grow up fast and learn how to build myself early. Since then, I’ve changed cities many times, always chasing new opportunities, and now my next big step is pursuing a master’s degree in China. Donghua University… please accept me *insert dramatic emoji here* I never chose fashion, fashion chose me, again and again. In high school, I was part of the technical IT program and the robotics team. I loved math and was completely obsessed with physics. My first dream was Aerospace Engineering, and my second was Mechatronic Engineering. Shocking twist: my family said no, and suggested design, fashion, or the arts instead. I know… usually it’s the opposite. But that’s my plot. After just one semester studying fashion, I knew it was not only my passion, but the profession of my life. Since then, I’ve developed a deep love for my country and my culture, and I discovered that fashion can be a powerful tool to elevate Brazil in the eyes of the world. In my work, I bring symbols from Piauí and from Brazilian culture: handicrafts, cangaço references, fauna and flora, cordel literature, superstitions, religions, folklore, and above all, the people. I love experimenting, trying new things, taking risks, and constantly improving, even through mistakes. I’m detail-oriented, hardworking, and full of intensity. I’m a daughter of the Equator line, from a hot place, so I could never be anything less than pure fire. I’m an Aries girl with a Scorpio rising, born in the Year of the Water Horse. So yes, 2026 is my 本命年, and I’m receiving all that energy, ready to turn it into power for this year.