Ilinca Trif
Journal
Ilinca Trif, an international fashion designer with Romanian roots, stands as the founder and owner of Trif Studio, a bastion of slow-fashion nestled in Amsterdam. Her aspiration revolves around cultivating a creative environment where talent, imagination, and a resounding commitment to sustainability converge to redefine fashion’s positive narrative.
Drawing inspiration from the cosmos, Ilinca infuses her designs with a profound sense of interconnectedness to the universe, seeking to instill a realistic sense of our grand-scale connection.
As a dedicated footwear and accessory designer, her passion lies in crafting beautiful, functional pieces that elevate every outfit they adorn. Collaborating seamlessly with cross-functional teams, she ensures her designs marry visual allure with commercial viability.
From captivating statement footwear to pragmatic yet stylish bags, Ilinca’s focus remains on creating accessories that marry exquisite craftsmanship with contemporary trends. Diligently keeping pace with industry advancements, she consistently delivers exceptional designs, underlining her unwavering commitment to punctuality and excellence.
Collaborating with Ilinca Trif on the Denim Gallery project was an honor, and we seized the chance to engage her in a few insightful questions.
How did you find yourself in collaborating with Tonello?
I got introduced to Tonello during the Amsterdam Denim days when they showcased one of their engineered machines. Being quite a nerd about such things, I was instantly captivated. Alberto and Alice enthusiastically shared details, and I was hooked not just by the technology but also by their welcoming vibe. The book I bought from Tonello became pivotal in nurturing my passion for denim—an encyclopedia of denim terms I still rely on in my work today. We swapped contacts, and a few weeks later, they reached out to invite me to join the Denim Gallery.
What did the Denim Gallery experience bring you from a working point of view?
My involvement in this project deepened my insight into the workings of the denim industry. As a fashion designer with a diverse skill set, I swiftly grasped that the denim industry operates uniquely. Its collaborative nature and the people involved go hand in hand. I was surprised to discover that, from a production standpoint, it’s the most harmful segment of the fashion industry. Yet, paradoxically, denim remains a fashion item that endures across decades, retaining its appeal to consumers.
Can you tell us what happened to you from both professional and personal point of view in these three years?
On a personal level, my reverence for denim has grown immensely. Presently employed by a Dutch women’s brand, I take pride in elevating their denim designs to greater heights. Simultaneously, I advocate for and advance the notion of sustainability. We strive to incorporate sustainably sourced denim and washings into our work wherever feasible.
What is your position today? What are you doing now?
I am currently working as an all-around fashion designer for a Dutch women’s brand. It is my dream job thanks to the people I work with and the company standards.
How do you imagine your personal and professional future? Do you have any upcoming project?
Currently I am working full time and loving it. I feel like I have found my place in the fashion world. I look forward to contributing to the company I am part of for many years to come. Of course if Tonello is ever interested in collaborating again I will be more than happy 😉
