The Kazakhstani model and influencer made her Cannes debut with a powerful fashion statement, celebrating local craftsmanship, cultural identity, and international elegance.
At the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, Kazakhstani model and influencer Amina Ramazanova made a statement that extended far beyond traditional red-carpet glamour. For her Cannes debut, she selected a striking creation by Kazakhstan-based designer Mari Ayrapetyan, founder of the fashion label MARIKO, bringing a distinctive expression of her country’s creative identity to one of the world’s most prestigious international events.
Her appearance represented more than a carefully curated fashion moment. It reflected a conscious decision to celebrate Kazakhstan’s growing influence in the global fashion industry while introducing international audiences to the creativity and craftsmanship emerging from Central Asia.
According to ELLE Kazakhstan, Ramazanova approached her Cannes debut with a clear vision: to wear a creation from a local designer and showcase the unique DNA of Kazakh fashion. Her choice of MARIKO embodied that ambition, combining contemporary couture with cultural references, intricate craftsmanship, and an unmistakable artistic identity.
A Connection Rooted in Authenticity and Creative Vision
Ramazanova’s connection with MARIKO began at Visa Fashion Week Almaty, where she first encountered the brand and developed an appreciation for its distinctive aesthetic, authenticity, and attention to detail.
Founded by designer Mari Ayrapetyan, MARIKO has attracted attention for its conceptual approach to fashion, particularly its interpretation of cultural heritage through modern silhouettes, sophisticated construction, and richly textured materials.
For Ramazanova, selecting the label for Cannes offered an opportunity to support local creative talent while demonstrating that Kazakhstan’s fashion industry deserves recognition alongside established international luxury houses.
Her appearance also reflected a broader movement within the fashion industry, as designers and personalities from Central Asia increasingly seek visibility on international platforms.
By choosing a Kazakhstani creation for such a prominent occasion, Ramazanova helped bring attention to the region’s evolving creative landscape and its potential to resonate with audiences worldwide.
From Kazakh Craftsmanship to Italian Elegance
Ramazanova later continued her Cannes fashion journey wearing an elegant gown from Ermanno Scervino’s 2026 collection, embracing a different dimension of her personal style.
While her MARIKO appearance emphasized cultural identity and emerging regional talent, her second look highlighted timeless sophistication and the refined aesthetic associated with Italian luxury fashion.
Together, the two appearances created a compelling fashion narrative, demonstrating her ability to move confidently between different creative traditions while maintaining a recognizable sense of individuality.
For Amina Ramazanova, Cannes became more than an opportunity to appear on an international red carpet. It represented a platform to celebrate her roots, embrace global fashion, and contribute to the growing visibility of Kazakhstani creativity.
Her debut ultimately illustrated how fashion can serve as a bridge between cultures, transforming personal style into a meaningful expression of heritage, ambition, and international identity.
