INTERVIEW WITH CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF BLUMARINE - DAVID KOMA

I’ve known David for many years, and coincidentally, Blumarine holds a personal meaning for me — my mother began working with this legendary Italian brand almost 30 years ago. I have vivid childhood memories of attending Blumarine shows, so I couldn’t wait to sit down with my friend David to talk about his new appointment and ask him all the questions on my mind.

YOU ARE GEORGIAN, AND I KNOW YOU VISIT TBILISI FROM TIME TO TIME. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE STYLE OF A TBILISI GIRL?
The Tbilisi girl has this incredible, free-spirited energy. She dresses with a real sense of authenticity. There’s always a rawness to her style — something unapologetic and effortless. It’s feminine, but with a darker, more rebellious, almost poetic edge.

WHAT IS THE BLUMARINE GIRL TO YOU TODAY? I REMEMBER THE BLUMARINE WOMAN OF THE EARLY 2000’S. WHAT’S DIFFERENT NOW?
The Blumarine woman is playful, joyful, and effortlessly light-hearted. She radiates confidence and sensuality, but always with a touch of irreverence and irony. Her style feels instinctive — something passed down from mother to daughter. It celebrates freedom, spontaneity, and self-expression.

YOU ONCE TOLD ME YOU LOVE FINDING INSPIRATION IN WOMEN YOU SEE ON THE STREET. HOW DO YOU DEFINE WHERE THE BLUMARINE WOMAN ENDS AND THE DAVID KOMA GIRL BEGINS? AND HOW DO YOU SEPARATE YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS WHEN DESIGNING FOR TWO BRANDS?

The most exciting part of working across two different labels is the opportunity to express my creativity in two distinct and unique ways. Each brand has its own voice, its own identity, and its own audience, which means I can explore two very different approaches. The challenge — and also the reward — is in finding the right way to connect with each community, making sure that what I create feels authentic and true to each brand’s spirit.

WHAT IMPRESSED YOU MOST WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED WORKING WITH THE BLUMARINE ARCHIVES?

I was truly amazed by the depth and richness of the brand’s archive — it’s a powerful reflection of Blumarine’s heritage and remarkable history. What struck me most was the beauty and craftsmanship of the embroidery, the knitwear, and how many pieces still feel incredibly modern today. There’s a timeless quality and artisanal excellence that continues to inspire me.

WHEN WE STARTED THIS MAGAZINE, ONE OF OUR GOALS WAS TO INTRODUCE TBILISI TO THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER BEEN, BUT DREAM OF VISITING. IF A FRIEND WERE COMING TO TBILISI FOR THE FIRST TIME AND ONLY FOR ONE DAY — WHAT WOULD YOU TELL THEM NOT TO MISS?

If a friend was visiting Tbilisi for the first time and only had one day, I’d tell them to begin with a city tour — to take in as many of the beautiful churches as possible, because the history and architecture are so rich. Then I’d recommend wandering through the Old Town, grabbing a coffee, and just soaking in the atmosphere — there’s something really special about that part of the city.

For local art and unique souvenirs, Dry Bridge Market is a must.

For lunch, I’d send them to Shavi Lomi — and they absolutely have to try the phkali, a traditional Georgian dish that’s full of flavor.

Ideally, they’d end the day with dinner at someone’s home — there’s truly nothing like Georgian hospitality: homemade food, wine, and stories shared around the table. And if it’s the weekend, I’d definitely recommend going out — Tbilisi’s nightlife is something people don’t expect until they experience it. It’s full of energy!

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