Desvira: The Aspiring Young Designer from Bali Island School

Desvira and the models wearing her design
  1. What inspired you to pursue fashion design at a young age? (Please share one specific moment, a particular read, or an event)

I’ve been enjoying making clothing sketches since I was in Grade 6. It made me realize that I have the potential to be a fashion designer. Growing up, I enjoyed watching fashion shows from luxury brands and high-caliber designers.

My favorite is Vivienne Westwood. The design always mesmerized me with its signature feminine and elegant flair.  

On the Runway with the models at the Bali Fashion Trend 2024
  1. Tell us the journey that brought your work to the runway.

In ninth grade, I enrolled in LPTB Susan Budihardjo, a fashion design course I attended for a year. On August 1, 2024, I made my debut, presenting my designs and brand to an audience. It was my very first runway show in Jakarta, and hundreds of people watched me. I felt a mix of nerves and pride for achieving one of my goals. I am proud to introduce my brand, “Tador”: The Design of Reality.

  1. How do you balance school with your passion for design?

Time management is the key to balancing school and designing my collections. I usually spend the weekend or on holidays brainstorming. Design is not merely about drawing but also about searching for inspiration. On the weekend, I spend my time skimming out new collections at the stores for an inspirational boost. 

Desvira at the Bali Fashion Trend 2024
  1. Who has been your biggest supporter throughout this experience?

Both of my parents always support me in every journey. They are my solid support system and loudest cheerleaders. Their words always remind me of what I want to pursue which is to be a fashion designer. 

Furthermore, they also teach me to be consistent in my work and ability. Their pride in me strengthens my confidence and makes me thrive for more.

  1. How does your study at BIS synchronize with this journey of yours?

The Visual Art class at Bali Island School boosts my creativity and helps me create meaningful work. BIS also teaches me to manage my time between academics and personal interests, fueling my curiosity. I proudly identify as a young fashion designer, aware of the challenges ahead, but confident in my ability to succeed. I aim to inspire other young designers to start their passionate journeys early.

Desvira’s Designs
  1. Are there any new projects or designs that we can look forward to?

I am currently preparing to apply to a university. I have completed two runway shows that have equipped me to provide an overview of my future as a fashion designer. 

In the first runway show, I combined styles from two different eras: the 1920s and modern fashion. I aimed to bring back vintage designs while ensuring they remain comfortable to wear. For the second runway, I incorporated traditional Indonesian fabric, known as Tenun, into formal styles. This was an effort to showcase Indonesia’s rich culture to the world, particularly within the tourism industry.

In April 2025, in preparation for my visual art exhibition, I decided to focus on fashion and fabric and at the same time look for other opportunities to present my collections to the public.