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Erika Chilingaryan is a prime example of how following one’s passion can turn a dream into reality. The founder of the brand Platon FF, she has been inspiring with her collections for over eight years, raising the production standards in Armenia and successfully integrating national motifs into the global fashion landscape.

The Journey to Fashion

From a young age, Erika was surrounded by creativity. Her family was involved in garment production, and despite pursuing a legal education, it was this environment that ignited her love for design. After earning a master’s degree in law, she quickly realized that her true calling lay in fashion. Deciding to continue her family’s legacy, Erika enrolled in the design and pattern-making courses at the prestigious Italian fashion institute, Istituto Burgo, marking a pivotal moment in her career.

Upon completing her studies, she began participating in renowned design competitions. Her achievements quickly followed: second place at the “Russian Silhouette” competition and a first-place win at the “Fashion Aids Line” competition organized by the United Nations. These successes allowed her to establish herself as a talented and promising designer, and thus, the Platon FF brand was born.

A Brand with a Mission

Platon FF is more than just a fashion brand; it is a platform for social and cultural change. Erika set out to achieve not only the development of fashion but also to improve the quality of life in Armenia. She creates jobs for women, hires refugees, and engages in charitable projects.

Her clothing quickly gained popularity. Platon FF collections are sold in prestigious stores in Yerevan, such as 5Concept Store and Made fashion corner, and later made their way to Los Angeles, with stores like Fashion Inn and High Trend stocking her designs. Erika also collaborates with online platforms, expanding her reach.

Debut at the First Fashion Week in Yerevan

One of Erika’s key achievements was her participation in the first Fashion Week in Yerevan. Her collection, made from hand-woven Italian fabrics, captivated international journalists. The collection caught the eye of Vogue Italia, marking a significant milestone in her fashion career.

Erika also showcased her work at cultural events, such as the 150th anniversary of Armenian writer Hovhannes Tumanyan. Through these efforts, she demonstrated that fashion is not just about beauty but also about preserving and reinterpreting cultural heritage.

Growth and New Projects

In 2022, Erika expanded her business by launching a modeling agency, SERENDIPITY, which became a new step in her creative evolution. The agency focuses on training professional models and providing support for fashion shoots, shows, and ad campaigns.

Erika also actively participates in international projects. She became involved in the EBRD’s “Women in Business” program, received a grant for marketing development, and collaborates with Italian experts, strengthening the connections between Armenia and Europe.

Looking to the Future

Today, Erika plans to continue her education in fashion and design abroad. She believes that furthering her knowledge will help elevate her brand and solidify its presence on the international stage.

“Fashion, for me, is more than just clothing. It is a way to speak about culture, traditions, and individuality. I want my work to allow people to feel the soul of Armenia and be inspired to create,” says Erika.

Her story serves as an inspiration for those dreaming of more. It’s a testament to how persistence, hard work, and love for what you do can transform the world around you. Erika Chilingaryan is a designer, entrepreneur, and representative of contemporary Armenian fashion.