DESIGNER FOCUS

DESIGNER FOCUS: ZORAN DOBRIC

DESIGNER FOCUS PROVIDES AN INTIMATE LOOK AT THE CREATIVE MINDS WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY. WE INTERVIEWED NOT JUST A LABEL DESIGNER ZORAN DOBRIC, a graduate of the London College of Fashion, to learn more about why he loves his native Toronto, the social responsibility of designers, and where he finds his inspiration when traveling.

Pick 3-5 adjectives that describe your brand.

Artistic.

Eclectic.

Individualistic.

Timeless.

Do you think you have a responsibility as a designer to respond to the social and political issues of our time?

Social reformation always starts with the individual, and I believe we all have this responsibility.

What are the trials and tribulations of being an emerging designer?

I think the main challenges are financial (fashion is a very expensive business to be in) and marketing in a very oversaturated and competitive environment.

What are you reading right now?

I just finished reading "Walk Through Walls" by Marina Abramovic. Fascinating. I am impressed by her commitment to her art even when nobody would take it seriously in the beginning. I am also seduced by the idea of connection between art, spirituality and every day life, which in a way is a performance.

What places have you visited that have sparked inspiration?

I love antique markets and always try to visit them in every country I travel to. I really enjoyed visiting China. The Forbidden City is unlike anything I've seen before. The Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition in London always makes me feel so inspired.

What is your favorite restaurant in your city?

I live in Toronto which is the most multicultural city in the world. I love many ethnic restaurants from Ethiopian to Korean. Many small authentic family owned restaurants from all around the world.

What magazines or digital newsletters do you subscribe to?

Encens is so good; I sometimes can't resist buying it. Herdes Magazine, the Moroccan issue had stunning photography and styling. I sometimes also get Gup Magazine, it's the best when it comes to art photography.

Name your top 3 most influential artists.

Egon Schiele, Paul Klee, El Anatsui.

Black or Navy?

Black.

Boots, flats, or sneakers?

Flats.

Music or podcasts?

Music.

Dress up or dress down?

The only way is up.

Met Gala or fashion week?

Both, I think. Met gala could be more fun if they had more support for smaller brands. More creative and less corporate vibe would be more interesting.