There’s something about Moscow that lingers long after you’ve left. Maybe it’s the grandeur of its architecture, the warmth of its people, or the way the city effortlessly weaves history with modernity. Whatever it is, I find myself falling deeper under its spell every time I visit.
This year marked my second time at Moscow Fashion Week, and if my first visit set the bar high, this one shattered every expectation. It wasn’t just about fashion — it was about being immersed in a city that lives and breathes creativity, where every street, every landmark, and every interaction adds another layer to the experience.
A Stay at the Metropol Hotel Moscow: Where the Past and Present Collide — Again
Nothing sets the tone for a trip quite like where you stay, and returning to the Metropol Hotel Moscow felt like stepping back into a world of timeless elegance. Having stayed here during my last visit, I knew I was in for an experience that was equal parts luxury and history.
The hotel, steeped in history, echoed tales of an era gone by, its Art Nouveau architecture a testament to Moscow’s enduring beauty.
Nestled in the heart of Moscow, just steps away from the Kremlin and Red Square, the Metropol is more than just a hotel — it’s a landmark in its own right. Built in the late 19th century, it has hosted some of the most illustrious figures in history, from legendary artists to world leaders. Its grand façade and exquisite Art Nouveau interiors tell stories of a bygone era, yet every modern comfort is seamlessly woven into its charm.
Mornings at the Metropol were nothing short of mesmerizing. Breakfast was served beneath the stained-glass dome of the hotel’s legendary dining hall — a space so opulent it felt like dining inside a Fabergé egg. But beyond the grandeur of the setting, it was the atmosphere that made these mornings unforgettable. Each day, a musician would take their place by the grand fountain, filling the air with the delicate, dreamlike sounds of the harp. The gentle plucking of strings, echoing softly through the hall, transformed an ordinary meal into something poetic. It was a moment to pause, to breathe, to simply exist in the beauty of it all.
There’s something about the Metropol that makes you feel like you’re part of history, and for a week, I was.
Fashion Week: More Than a Seat, It’s an Experience
Moscow Fashion Week 2025 was an absolute masterclass in organization, blending efficiency with a kind of effortless hospitality that’s rare in an industry known for its chaos. Every show started right on time — a refreshing change from the usual unpredictability of fashion weeks elsewhere. As press, we were given prime front-row seats with digital QR codes on our phones, eliminating the need for paper invitations. It was a small detail, but it spoke volumes about the event’s seamless execution.
What made the experience even more remarkable was the team behind it all. Every delegate had a dedicated set of managers ensuring we were taken care of — whether it was getting us to shows on time, checking in on us daily, or simply making sure we were comfortable. It wasn’t just efficiency; it was genuine hospitality, something that set Moscow apart.
And then, of course, there was the fashion itself. Each show felt like a statement — a bold, fearless celebration of creativity. Russian designers are carving a space that feels distinctly their own, marrying heritage with avant-garde innovation. The craftsmanship, the storytelling, and the sheer theatricality of it all made every collection feel like an event in itself.
Beyond the Runway: Moscow’s Cultural Tapestry
But Moscow Fashion Week wasn’t just about the fashion — it was an immersion into the very soul of the city. The organizers had curated experiences that allowed us to see Moscow through a different lens, and each one left me more enamoured than before.
One morning, we found ourselves on a yacht, cruising along the Moskva River, taking in the city’s skyline from a completely new perspective. Another day, we wandered through its streets, discovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks, each with a story to tell.
One of the most surreal moments? Stepping inside the legendary Bolshoi Theater — this time, not just as a spectator, but as a traveler through its history. On my last visit, I had the privilege of watching a breathtaking ballet performance here. This time, I had the rare opportunity to explore the theater beyond the stage, guided through its storied past. Walking through its opulent halls, beneath dazzling chandeliers and past rows of plush red velvet seats, I could almost hear the echoes of performances that have shaped centuries of art and culture. It was a reminder that the Bolshoi is more than just a venue; it’s a living piece of history.
And for those who love the magic of ballet as much as I do — stay tuned! I’ll be sharing my experience of the incredible performance I witnessed at the Bolshoi in a dedicated article soon.
Moscow: A Place You Never Truly Leave
Moscow Fashion Week 2025 wasn’t just an event — it was an experience that resonated on a much deeper level. The attention to detail, the passion woven into every show, and the city itself made it unforgettable.
As I boarded my flight home, I felt that familiar pang — that reluctance to leave behind a place that had given me so much. But if there’s one thing I know for certain, it’s that Moscow never truly lets you go. It lingers in your thoughts, in your memories, in the stories you bring back with you.
And for that, I know I’ll be back.
