#Cyprus #BE OPEN #Nicosia #CVAR #Cyprus Fashion

Celebrating Cypriot Heritage Through Fashion

On October 18, 2025, a historic street in Nicosia was transformed into a runway for an extraordinary open-air fashion show, organized by the BE OPEN Foundation in collaboration with the Centre of Visual Arts and Research (CVAR). This immersive event, titled Here Come the Cypriots, provided an insightful glimpse into the rich and evolving identity of Cyprus through its fashion history.

The event showcased a captivating timeline of garments, ranging from the Ottoman era to the British colonial period and into modern-day styles. Notably, local teenagers took to the catwalk, vividly bringing historical attire to life, offering contemporary audiences a unique visual narrative of centuries past.

Dr. Rita C. Severis, Director of CVAR, emphasized the multicultural aspect of Cyprus. She stated that the island's diverse heritage, shaped by various societies and historical events, not only influences the mentality of its people but also impacts daily life, including culinary practices, language, and, notably, clothing. Dr. Severis remarked, "It is this last element we celebrate in collaboration with BE OPEN, hoping the experience will foster knowledge, deepen understanding, and revive cherished memories."

Elena Baturina, founder of BE OPEN, expressed her admiration for Cyprus’s artistic and artisanal legacy, highlighting the importance of cultural events like this one. "It was a great pleasure to be part of this exciting and fashionable journey together with CVAR. As an international initiative, BE OPEN is honored to support creative and meaningful celebrations of Cyprus' culture and history," she stated. Baturina reaffirmed BE OPEN's commitment to enhancing projects tailored for the island's young creative community, ensuring the preservation of Cyprus's unique cultural elements.

In support of this cultural endeavor, Emmanuella Lambrianidou, Permanent Secretary of Cyprus' Ministry of Culture, underscored the necessity of civil society's active involvement in cultural policies. She extended her heartfelt gratitude to CVAR and BE OPEN for their exemplary work in promoting Cypriot culture.

Moreover, BE OPEN is also engaging young artisans and designers through the Cyprus Future Heritage competition. In partnership with the Cyprus Handicraft Service of the Deputy Ministry of Culture, this competition invites emerging creatives to reinterpret traditional weaving and embroidery practices of Cyprus. The winners will earn fully-funded internships abroad and participate in workshops organized by BE OPEN, encouraging the continuation of these rich artistic traditions.

With a backdrop of vibrant costumes and a palpable connection to the past, Here Come the Cypriots not only celebrated the artistry of fashion but also reinforced the significance of Malta's diverse heritage. The event served as a reminder that through creativity and collaborative efforts, the remarkable stories of Cyprus can be revived and cherished for generations to come.