Valentin Yudashkin was one of the most famous and influential fashion designers in Russia. He died on May 2, 2023 at the age of 59 after a serious illness. His death caused grief and dismay in the Russian and international fashion world.
Yudashkin was born on October 14, 1963 near Moscow. He studied at the Moscow Textile Academy and founded his own fashion label in 1987. He was the first Russian designer to present his collections at Paris Fashion Week, where he has been a regular participant since 1991. His fashion was characterized by elegance, joy of colors and experimentation. He was inspired by Russian culture, art and history, but also by current events and trends.
Yudashkin was not only a fashion designer, but also an entrepreneur who steadily expanded his empire. He opened boutiques in Moscow, Paris, New York and other cities. He also designed jewelry, perfumes, porcelain and furniture. He was also responsible for designing the new uniforms for the Russian army in 2008, which he wanted to make more modern and comfortable.
Judashkin was not only a successful designer, but also a committed citizen. He supported various social and cultural projects, such as the restoration of churches and museums. He was also a friend and admirer of President Vladimir Putin, whom he met several times and for whom he tailored suits. He rarely expressed himself politically, however, and came under criticism in the spring of 2022 when he failed to speak out against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Judashkin is survived by his wife Marina Judashkina, who was his business partner, and his son Galileo Judashkin, who is also a fashion designer. His legacy will live on in his numerous collections, exhibitions and books. He will go down in history as one of Russia’s greatest fashion designers.