Ana Margarida Feijão to Showcase “Liberdade é Nome de Mulher” Collection at Lisbon Fashion Week
Published
October 5, 2025
In a vibrant celebration of art, fashion, and social commentary, Portuguese designer Ana Margarida Feijão is set to unveil her latest collection, “Liberdade é Nome de Mulher” (Freedom is a Woman’s Name), on October 9, 2025. This exhibition will take place at the CUPRA City Garage, located at 64 Rua Áurea in Lisbon’s historic Baixa district, starting at 19:30. The event follows her recent performance at Palacete Gomes Freire, part of the ongoing Lisbon Fashion Week.
A Fusion of Fashion and Social Critique
Feijão’s collection is described as a series of “wearable sculptures” that intricately blend fashion with artistic expression and social critique. According to CUPRA, the collection draws inspiration from traditional Portuguese photography and the lived experiences of women, exploring themes of identity, femininity, and cultural heritage.
“Her pieces arise from cultural and emotional research,” CUPRA stated, highlighting Feijão’s innovative use of materials such as handmade fabrics, leather, and draped silks. These elements are crafted into exaggerated forms that challenge conventional fashion norms, transforming garments into statements of art.
Historical Context and Personal Narratives
The collection is deeply rooted in the historical context of Portugal, particularly the period following the Carnation Revolution of April 25, 1974. This pivotal moment in Portuguese history marked the end of a long-standing dictatorship and ushered in a new era of democracy. Feijão’s work is influenced by the RTP documentary series “Nome Mulher,” which chronicles the stories of Portuguese women during this transformative time.
As noted by ModaLisboa, Feijão weaves together the narratives of women who lived through this era, often overshadowed by history. “Real stories, often forgotten, of those who lived the promise of freedom in a country still stuck in old habits,” the organization remarked. This collection not only pays homage to these women but also reflects Feijão’s own experiences as a Portuguese woman navigating a society still influenced by patriarchal legacies.
The Art of Craftsmanship
Feijão’s dedication to craftsmanship is evident in her approach to design. The designer emphasizes the importance of the handmade process, which she believes imbues her creations with a sense of intimacy and strength. “A love of the handmade and the time devoted to the creative process are at the heart of her practice,” CUPRA noted. This commitment to artisanal techniques results in pieces that celebrate the memory and resilience of women throughout history.
Educational Background and Influences
Born in the Algarve, Feijão’s educational journey took her from the Faculty of Architecture in Lisbon to prestigious institutions like Parsons School of Design and Central Saint Martins in London. This diverse background has allowed her to develop a unique perspective that straddles the worlds of art and fashion.
Her work is characterized by a strong element of social critique, exploring the roles assigned to women over time. As ModaLisboa points out, Feijão distinguishes herself by creating sculptural pieces inspired by historical dress, reinterpreted through a contemporary lens.
Experience in New York
Feijão’s career has also taken her to New York, where she worked with designer Melitta Baumeister from 2022 to 2024. This experience allowed her to refine her skills in sculptural form and innovative garment construction techniques. The Lisbon catwalk organization noted that her time in the bustling metropolis has significantly influenced her personal project, which offers a space for reflection on memory, the body, and the complexities of the female experience.
Her graduate collection was showcased at New York Fashion Week in 2024, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
Conclusion
Ana Margarida Feijão’s upcoming exhibition promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of women’s narratives through the lens of fashion and art. By intertwining personal and historical stories, Feijão not only honors the past but also challenges contemporary societal norms. As Lisbon Fashion Week continues to spotlight innovative designers, Feijão’s “Liberdade é Nome de Mulher” stands out as a compelling testament to the power of creativity in addressing social issues.
With her unique blend of craftsmanship, historical awareness, and artistic vision, Feijão is poised to make a lasting impact on the fashion landscape, both in Portugal and beyond.
