In this interview, we get to know Keren Kudriya, the visionary designer and founder of KUDRIYA, an Israeli fashion brand rooted in empowerment, elegance, and authenticity. Drawing from her personal journey and multicultural heritage, Keren built a brand that speaks to real women, those who want to feel confident, supported, and seen. From custom swimwear to emotionally inspired collections, KUDRIYA is redefining modern femininity, one piece at a time.
1. Can you tell us more about how your journey with fashion began?
Fashion has always been part of my life. My father was a tailor, so I grew up surrounded by fabrics and creativity. But for me, fashion wasn’t just practical, it was emotional. As a child, I had very few clothes. I remember owning only two pairs of jeans, while everyone at school paid attention to what brands you wore. I used to borrow my sister’s clothes just to feel like I fit in.
Later, I earned a scholarship to study at a university with very privileged students. Even with more clothes, I still felt like an outsider. Fashion continued to feel like a status symbol, something I wasn’t meant to access.
Then came the pandemic, and that’s when I started KUDRIYA. I began by upcycling secondhand clothes, then moved to designing swimwear, because swimwear is so intimate. It shows your body, yes, but more than that, it reveals how you feel about it. KUDRIYA was born from that space: to make women feel powerful, feminine, and truly seen.
2. How would you describe the essence of KUDRIYA in three words?
Timeless. Empowering. Sensual. KUDRIYA combines classic design with bold femininity. Each piece is made to celebrate real women without compromising comfort, individuality, or quality.
3. What role does body confidence play in your work?
It’s everything. I believe confidence starts with how connected a woman feels to what she’s wearing. I focus on custom fit, supportive cuts, and flattering silhouettes that reflect her personality and beauty. I offer fittings and won’t stop until she looks in the mirror and says, “Yes, this is me.”
4. What does being part of Miss Europe Continental 2025 mean to you?
It’s a dream come true. Taking KUDRIYA to an international stage allows me to share its message with women from all over the world. Being part of Miss Europe Continental 2025 is not just about visibility, it’s about showing women that beauty comes from within, and confidence is your best runway.
5. Can you tell us more about the designs you’re preparing for the competition?
I’m working on a mix of brand-new designs and select pieces from my latest collection, each with a personal story behind it. What excites me most is seeing how the contestants connect emotionally with the pieces. It’s not just about fashion, it’s about creating a moment where each woman shines.
6. Where do you see KUDRIYA in five years?
I see KUDRIYA expanding globally, with stores in major cities, collaborations with inspiring women, and a growing community that celebrates real bodies and honest beauty. I dream of opening a dedicated production space where everything, from the stitching to the spirit, reflects our values.
7. What advice would you give to other aspiring designers and entrepreneurs?
Never stop showing up. No matter your background, if you have a strong “why,” you’ll find your “how.” I came from humble beginnings, but I held on to purpose and vision and that made all the difference. Believe your voice matters. Stay consistent. Let your passion guide you.
8. What does success mean to you personally?
For me, success is personal. It’s when a woman smiles in something I made. When she chooses to trust me with a custom design. When she feels confident, beautiful, and truly herself. That’s what success looks like to me, real joy, real connection, real women.
Credits
Photographers: Soscenic Photographer, Anastasiya Volchkevich, Okunevich Photography
Makeup Artists: Ronel Ovaida, Diana Gimpelevich
Models: Keren Kudriya, Yael Kudriya, Eden Aharon, Turo Fatana
Styling & Design: Keren Kudriya
