My name is Irina Tsapreva, a.k.a. Penumbra. I am the person behind the one-woman show that is “Penumbra-Designs”.
My fascination with costume design and unconventional fashion began at a young age, shaped by influences from both Eastern and Western pop culture. I spent my teenage years and early twenties immersed in cosplay, eventually reaching a semi-professional level as both an international competitor and judge. My proudest achievement to date is winning the Best Sewn Costume award at the World Cosplay Summit 2024 in Nagoya, Japan.
My professional background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Set and Costume Design (NATFA, 2020) and a Master’s degree in Costume Design (National Academy of Art, 2024). My theatre experience, combined with a deep love for stage costumes, continues to strongly inform and inspire the alternative wear I create today.
Why “Penumbra-Designs”?
“Penumbra-Designs” is the realization of a lifelong dream of mine. To me, it’s more than just a brand, but a personal space where I can explore my imagination freely and give form to my inner world.
The name “Penumbra” came to me rather impulsively, simply because I loved the sound of the word penumbra. Yet, in retrospect, it feels perfectly suited to the essence of my work.
“Penumbra” refers to a space partially veiled in shadow. The alternative style I’ve chosen, though deeply expressive, still carries a lingering stigma of abnormality and is often shunned by more conservative circles.
Therefore, I see myself as working within a kind of gray area, one that belongs to those who embrace the eccentric.
“Penumbra-Designs” is not a commercial store, but rather a small indie fashion boutique. Every product displayed here is 100% handmade with a lot of love and dedication. The materials I work with are in limited quantities, meaning that a lot of the pieces are one of a kind.
The main focus of my work is accessories. Over the years, my practice has evolved from creating traditional body harnesses to exploring more experimental forms such as modernized armor and whimsical, horror-inspired wearable art.
Who is this fashion for?
There’s no “right” or “wrong” type of person these designs are meant for. My goal is for them to be worn and enjoyed by anyone, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, profession, or personal style.
I strive to create accessories I would proudly wear myself, whether in everyday life or as part of a stage costume.
To achieve this, I embrace experimentation with a wide range of materials, techniques, and styles, allowing my work to resonate with the kaleidoscope of subcultures that inspire me.