THE SHOWS
Story by Terry Check
The 4th Annual Project ZED, presented by Miami Swim Week®, transformed DUA Miami, Autograph Collection, into a vibrant hub of fashion, art, and culture during the highly anticipated Miami Art Week. This year’s theme highlights sustainability, celebrating the seamless blend of creative expression and eco-conscious innovation. Featuring acclaimed designers and celebrated artists, Project Zed promised an extraordinary showcase redefining the boundaries of art, fashion, and culture.
Masquerade Magazine was only available to attend the first show featuring the amazing designer, Ema Savahi. Additional designers included: Elsa Dress Couture, Playa Sol, Love For Upcycling, Mahogony Coast Swim, Hertage India Fashions and Megan Mae Miami Swimwear.
“Ex Nihilo” – out of nothing. This Latin phrase encapsulates the rare, enigmatic brilliance of individuals for whom creativity is as natural as breathing. For fashion designer Ema Koja, the concept of creating something entirely original is not merely an aspiration; it is her reality. Over the past two decades, Koja has redefined fashion by pioneering a unique blend of artistry and couture that has left an indelible mark on the industry. Koja introduced the groundbreaking concept of hand-painting intricate artwork onto garments. Her method, which transforms fabric into a canvas, results in three-dimensional textures that manipulate body shapes through optical illusion. This ingenious technique birthed a new identity in fashion — a marriage of art and design that is as visually stunning as it is innovative.
Koja’s creations are not mere garments; they are wearable works of art. Every piece begins as a figment of her vivid imagination, which she meticulously translates into both the artwork and the silhouette of the garment. This synthesis of design and decoration has garnered her a devoted following among style icons such as Katy Perry, Jennifer Lopez, and Tyra Banks, as well as countless women worldwide who appreciate her singular vision. For Koja, each woman is “a masterpiece in her own right, deserving of a frame as unique as she is.”
A Labor of Love and Collaboration
Although Koja’s creations appear effortlessly beautiful, their genesis is far from simple. Bringing these garments to life demands more than artistic vision; it requires the collaboration of a dedicated team. Seamstresses, pattern makers, and artisans work together to execute Koja’s designs with precision and care.
It is this dynamic interplay between individual creativity and collective craftsmanship where Koja truly shines. She thrives on inspiring others to tap into their imaginative potential. Nothing excites her more than mentoring young designers. She urges them to use the right side of their brain – to express themselves and create what has never existed before. Koja’s mentorship, though inspiring, is not without its challenges. It’s a difficult process, but it’s incredibly rewarding.
The Magic of Stretch Mesh and Moldable Resin
One of the standout features of Savahl’s designs is her use of avant-garde materials, including stretch mesh and moldable resin. These materials, which allow for unparalleled adaptability and durability, are central to her creative process. Stretch mesh is like a second skin – it moves with the body while maintaining its structure. Moldable resin enables us to create sculptural elements that bring a 3D effect to the garments. Developing this approach was a labor of love and innovation, pushing boundaries at every step.
These materials are not only functional but also artistic, enabling Savahl to create garments that are both visually striking and comfortable to wear. The stretch mesh enhances the wearer’s movement, ensuring that each piece feels as good as it looks, while the moldable resin adds a sense of drama and dimension. Together, these materials embody the fusion of form and function that defines Koja’s work.
Ema Koja’s Design Process
Ema Koja’s design process is an intricate journey that combines artistic vision, meticulous craftsmanship, and technical expertise. Each step is crucial to transforming her initial ideas into breathtaking final garments. Here is a closer look at her step-by-step process:
From Tirana to the World Stage
Koja’s journey from the ancient city of Tirana, Albania, to the global fashion stage is a testament to resilience and determination. Born under a repressive communist regime, her childhood was shaped by both limitations and inspirations. Koja’s aunts, skilled seamstresses, instilled in her a love for style and the craft of sewing. Her father, a revered volleyball coach, cultivated her relentless work ethic and unwavering discipline.
These formative experiences set the stage for her future success. After the fall of communism, Koja’s family relocated to Italy, where she pursued a career as a professional volleyball player. Her athletic prowess and statuesque frame caught the attention of fashion insiders, and she soon became a sought-after fit model for esteemed brands like Blumarine, Parah, and Off Limits.
However, a shoulder injury brought her volleyball career to an abrupt end. Rather than succumb to adversity, Koja seized the opportunity to immerse herself in the fashion industry. She studied pattern making, textiles, and artistic design, all while nurturing her burgeoning creative vision. A year-long journey around the world further enriched her perspective, culminating in her arrival in Miami, Florida. The city’s vibrant, multicultural atmosphere—a kaleidoscope of exotic colors and textures—became the fertile ground where Ema Koja would plant the seeds of her fashion revolution.
The Ema Savahl Legacy
Today, Koja’s brand, Ema Savahl Couture, is synonymous with elegance and innovation. Each garment is still meticulously handmade and hand-painted in her Miami atelier, a commitment to craftsmanship that has endured since the brand’s inception in 1996. From cocktail dresses to bridal gowns, her pieces are celebrated for their versatility and practicality. They are lightweight, travel-friendly, and even hand-washable, making them as functional as they are exquisite.
As Ema Koja continues to push the boundaries of fashion, her influence shows no signs of waning. Her journey – from a young girl in communist Albania to a trailblazing designer in the United States – is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of creativity and determination. Through her mentorship, Koja is ensuring that the next generation of designers is equipped to carry the torch forward, creating “ex nihilo” – out of nothing – just as she has.
Masquerade Magazine wishes to thank Chelsea Burke, Designer Lead, of the Miami Swim Week Shows, for assistance (https://dcswimweek.com/) and Thomas Concordia (http://concordiaproductionsinc.com/) for the amazing photography published in this magazine cover story.
