The global design community is buzzing about the upcoming conference, POV Budapest, which will be held this September in the Hungarian capital. The excitement is well-founded; Budapest, even if only for a few days, becomes the epicenter of visual design. Speakers from around the world will take the stage at the prestigious National Dance Theater to inspire the international crowd.
We had the opportunity to talk to Dóri Tomcsányi, a local standout in the impressive lineup, to catch up and learn more about her work. Dóri shared her thoughts on TOMCSÁNYI’s latest collection, discussing how national identity serves as her inspiration. She explained how common memories, objects, environments, and the associated associations shape our shared identity. If you’re interested in a sneak peek into her talk at POV Budapest, her local tips, or her thoughts on the future of TOMCSÁNYI, read on:
Hi Dóri, how is it going with your brand, TOMCSÁNYI, lately?
Hi, it is going well! The spring/summer collection was a hit. Our customers are loving the pieces, and we just can’t keep up with the orders.
That sounds amazing. What inspired the collection?
The spring/summer collection was inspired by the iconic "Miskakancsó," a traditional Hungarian lead-glazed earthenware wine jug renowned for its hussar-inspired form and intricate embellishments.
In recent years, you’ve reflected a lot on Hungarian culture with your pieces. In your opinion, what defines the identity of a nation, particularly Hungary?
In my opinion, the Hungarian identity can be closely paralleled with the Hungarian language. It is very rare for someone who is not Hungarian to speak it. We understand each other, but people living in other countries hardly understand us. On one hand, we can talk about a common consciousness, and on the other hand, the similarity of personal identities. After all, I wasn't the only one who grew up in the '90s, whose grandparents came from the village, collected "Miskakancsó," and cooked stuffed cabbage. Common memories, objects, environments, and the associated associations give us the common identity that uniquely characterizes us Hungarians.
We’re glad to see you representing Hungary in the lineup. What excites you most about POV Budapest?
I’m very excited to hear fellow designers' presentations and learn about their drive and work methods. It is also a great honor to participate in an international conference and talk about my brand, which I started 12 years ago.
How did you resonate with the topic of the conference?
It is a perfect match, I think. As the conference stands for representing different points of view based on designer practices, I believe what I’ve been building and what my brand stands for aligns very well with this theme. Hungarian fashion designers have a strong background in carrying some aspects of national identity. Even though we all try to resonate with international trends, this unique point of view makes us stand out on the international scene. It's worth mentioning.
We can’t wait for your lecture at the National Dance Theater. Could you give us some hints about your talk?
In my doctoral research and personal design practice, I’m investigating not only how designers use national identity as an inspiration or marketing tool but also the benefits of standing out with a product or brand on the international market.
Exciting! What are the top things you’re most looking forward to at POV Budapest?
I’m really excited to see Anna Kulachek’s presentation, as I admire her work. Additionally, meeting like-minded designers is always very inspiring.
Do you have any personal recommendations for local spots in Budapest that attendees shouldn’t miss this September?
It might not be for everyone, but I’m very into flea markets. Wherever I travel, I try to find the local flea markets as they tell a lot about a country’s origin and identity. One of my favorites in Budapest is Budai Zsibvásár.
Budai Zsibvásár is a true local experience for sure. Regarding the future of your brand, what is your vision?
Opening a TOMCSANYI sustainability store has been my dream for a while. Those who know us are aware that we don’t have a ready-to-ship stock to avoid overproduction; we start working on the order after it is placed. All of our dresses are made in our Budapest atelier, and my vision is to move the production to a more accessible location. Through the shop windows, it would be visible how much effort goes into making a piece of clothing. Customers could choose the fabric, place their orders on the spot, and receive made-to-measure service. Some might say this is going backward to the past before ready-to-wear, but I have always liked the concept of conscious shopping and fitted garments that can be used for a long time.
If you want to see Dóri and the impressive lineup of international speakers on stage this September, make sure to secure your spot for POV Budapest. Head to the website for more info and late bird tickets.