Nicole BreslinDuring the 2025 Spring Break, students traveled to Uzbekistan on a short-course trip to learn about the textile industry there. Fashion Design senior student, Gvantsa Narimanidze, tells us about her experience and shares some photos with us.
What was your favorite part of your trip to Uzbekistan?
Uzbekistan felt like stepping into a whole new world, one filled with color. Ten days packed with learning, beauty, culture, tradition, and unforgettable food. It’s hard to choose just one standout experience because each moment was uniquely impactful. But above all, I’m most grateful for the knowledge I gained and the meaningful relationships I formed, not just with people, but with the textile world itself. As a fashion designer, textiles haven’t always been a major focus for me. However, my time in Uzbekistan changed that. Watching traditional techniques such as softening silk cocoons and weaving stunning Ikat fabrics, completely shifted my perspective.
What did you learn about the textile industry there? Did you learn any techniques that you are planning to incorporate into your work?
In Uzbek culture, family and community are at the heart of everything, even the textile industry. Each step of the process is completed by different relatives, almost like a sacred tradition that connects generations. It’s more than a business, it’s a generational craft filled with love, dedication, and deep respect for both the work and the people involved. Two techniques that stood out were Ikat and Suzani. Suzani, a form of hand embroidery, is often created in pieces by different family members and then stitched together into one masterpiece. The level of detail and artistry is truly breathtaking. As someone who enjoys embroidery and creating visual stories on fabric, Suzani is a technique I’m excited to explore more deeply in future designs.
What are some of the things you experienced on this short-course trip?
During the trip, I had the chance to visit artisan homes and see their daily creative process with Ikat and Suzani. I even got to try some of the methods myself. For someone with little background in textile design, this hands-on experience was both exciting and enlightening. We also explored colorful textile markets where I collected vintage fabrics and traditional items. Beyond textiles, we visited remarkable historical landmarks like Shah-i-Zinda and Registan Square, both showcasing incredible architecture and tilework. I met ceramic artists and watched their craft in motion, and in Margilan, we toured a silk factory to learn how raw cocoons are transformed into delicate fabric. This journey offered a perfect blend of education, inspiration, and fun and always accompanied by amazing meals and warm hospitality. While the trip centered around textiles, it also deepened my understanding of Uzbek traditions and culture, something I will always appreciate.
Is there anything else you think people should know about your experience?
Many people don’t know much about Uzbekistan, but I encourage others to discover it. Explore countries rich in history and artistic heritage as they offer valuable insights not just for designers, but for anyone who’s willing to explore and learn. Dive into culturally rich places because they’ll give you a whole new perspective on life. And never stop yourself from participating in study abroad opportunities just because they don’t directly relate to your major. The broader your experiences, the more you’ll evolve. As a fashion designer, I’m incredibly thankful for this textile design program I got the chance to participate in. I will always be grateful for all that I’ve learned within and outside of the industry.
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