A captivating exhibition at the Goh Loo Club showcased the beauty of traditional Russian attire, honouring cultural heritage and International Women’s Day.
From 7 to 9 March 2025, the Goh Loo Club in Singapore transformed into a vibrant celebration of Russian heritage, where visitors immersed themselves in the elegance of traditional Russian attire. Organised by the Russian House in Singapore, with the support of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Singapore, Executive Chairman Mr Darryl Tan, and Honorary Chairman Mr Tan Dib Jib, the exhibition was a key highlight of International Women’s Day celebrations.
The event commenced with an opening ceremony featuring a keynote address by H.E. Nikolay Kudashev, Ambassador of Russia to Singapore. He underscored the cultural significance of the exhibition, stating, “The appearance and traditional dress of a Russian woman reflect the diverse cultural heritage of our homeland — a land where people of different ethnic, religious, and social backgrounds have long lived side by side. It is this unique ability to passionately synthesise diverse influences and forge a shared, unifying agenda that defines the Russian spirit, worldview, way of life, and culture.”
The exhibition featured an array of cultural highlights. Visitors admired captivating photography art prints by Yulia Durova showcasing women in traditional Russian attire. Fashion enthusiasts were drawn to the exquisite sarafans and accessories designed by Anastasiia Novikova and Daria Rotast. Folk music performances by the Toloka Ensemble added to the atmosphere, bringing Russian traditions to life. Additionally, guests enjoyed authentic Russian souvenirs and sweets from Anna’s Gourmet Shop, which proved to be a crowd favourite.
A series of engaging lectures deepened visitors’ appreciation of Russian heritage. On 8 March, designer Anastasiia Novikova explored the history of traditional Russian costumes, followed by an interactive kokoshnik try-on session, where guests marvelled at the elaborate craftsmanship and weight of these iconic headpieces. On 9 March, Daria Rotast delivered an insightful talk on Russian traditions and national attire and captivated the audience with a performance of classical Russian romance ballads.
The Sarafan Designs exhibition successfully celebrated the richness of Russian culture, offering Singaporeans and international visitors an immersive experience into centuries-old traditions, artistry, and craftsmanship.
Source: Embassy of the Russian Federation, Singapore
