NCAD Alumna Mila Burov Designs First Official Conferring Robes
The National College of Art and Design (NCAD) is proud to announce that Fashion Design alumna Mila Burov has been commissioned to design and create the college's first-ever official conferring robes.
Mila Burov, a 2023 NCAD graduate, has quickly made a name for herself in the fashion industry with her innovative designs and commitment to sustainability. Her degree collection, "Enamour," received widespread acclaim for its avant-garde streetwear concepts and use of organic, recycled, and low-impact textiles12.
The commission includes creating robes for ten key academic positions, including the Director, Chair of An Bord, Honorary Doctorate, and Heads of Schools within NCAD. Burov's expertise in conferring gown design, honed during her internship with renowned Irish fashion designer Louis Copeland, made her the ideal choice for this project.
Alex Milton, Head of the School of Design at NCAD, commented:
"Mila's unique vision and technical skills, combined with her understanding of NCAD's ethos, make her the perfect designer for our first official conferring robes. We're excited to see how she has blended tradition with innovation in these important academic garments."
Burov's design philosophy emphasises the combination of analogue and digital technologies, such as hand-embroidery and digital laser-cutting, along with an asymmetrical approach and vibrant colour schemes. This is expected to bring a fresh perspective to traditional academic attire. Her commitment to slow fashion and sustainability aligns perfectly with NCAD's values, promising a set of conferring robes that are both visually striking and environmentally conscious.
On being commissioned to design the new NCAD conferring robes, Mila Burov said:
¨Graduation ceremonies are a celebration of excellence, knowledge, and achievement. I was deeply honoured to design the robes for the distinguished college staff and PhD honorees of NCAD. Creating the robes was more than a design project,- it was an opportunity to honour the dedication and scholarship of the individuals who inspire and lead. With this in mind, I crafted each element to reflect a sense of dignity, sophistication, and tradition.
From the initial sketches to selecting the perfect fabric, the journey was both challenging and rewarding. The robes are made from organic fabrics, chosen for their quality, comfort, sustainability, and elegance. Beyond their functional purpose, these robes are a symbol of achievement and unity. I hope they inspire confidence and pride. Thank you NCAD College for entrusting me with this meaningful project. It has been a privilege to contribute to a day that honours such remarkable individuals.¨
