In today’s fast-paced fashion industry, emerging brands face an uphill battle—striving for recognition amidst a sea of global competition. Small and new labels often navigate a challenging landscape, balancing creativity, innovation, and hurdles that come with being in their early stages. For brands hailing from smaller countries, these struggles are even more pronounced. Yet, despite these obstacles, some brands are proving that passion, resilience, and a unique vision can create waves in the industry.

Words + Interview by @aleksja_prendi

One such brand is MAET, an emerging Albanian label founded by visionary designer and creative director Alesia Zyla. MAET stands out not just for its aesthetic but for its determination to carve a distinctive path from a country not traditionally associated with high fashion. 

MAET is a bold fusion of sophistication and romantic dark allure, where the aesthetic is defined by clean, linear lines and a sense of fluidity. As Albania’s first ready-to-wear slow-fashion brand, MAET pushes the boundaries of conventional design, offering minimalistic pieces that are both structured and unexpected. Founded by Alesia Zyla, the brand is driven by her vision of an unconventional future—one where creativity flows freely and an equitable future is within reach for all. The all-woman team behind MAET, including skilled seamstresses working in the Tirana studio, handcrafts each piece with care, prioritizing sustainability at every stage of production.

Maet embraces a slow-fashion ethos, creating clothing that resists the fast-paced cycle of fleeting trends. Every garment is designed to last, both in quality and relevance, offering timeless pieces that transcend seasons. The brand is committed to using eco-conscious materials and sustainable production methods that respect both the planet and the people involved in the process. MAET’s designs serve as a conscious counterpoint to today’s disposable fashion culture, focusing on durability, craftsmanship, and a future where fashion is both responsible and equitable.

The collections from MAET explore bold femininity, where each piece is as unexpected as it is sophisticated. With a strong emphasis on eco-consciousness and thoughtful design, MAET is not just a clothing brand—it’s a statement that transcends borders, inviting individuality and a vision of fashion that is both meaningful and sustainable.

MAET’s latest collection is a blend of burgundy, black, brown, and white, with subtle accents of dark grey. The garments are crafted from luxurious wool, cashmere, and silk, creating a tactile experience that balances warmth and sophistication. The collection embraces both structured tailoring and fluid draping, with linear cuts that define the silhouette while allowing movement. Each piece is designed to be both minimal and bold, with carefully considered details that elevate the overall aesthetic—an embodiment of timeless, modern elegance. 

In the below interview, we explore the challenges of building a brand from Albania, the creativity that drives MAET, and how it’s overcoming the odds to make its mark in the global fashion scene.

What inspired you to start this brand? What sparked the idea of starting it?

The inspiration for Maet came from a personal journey of growth, creativity, and a deep desire to make a positive impact in the fashion industry. I’ve always believed that fashion is more than just clothing—it’s a form of storytelling and self-expression. Growing up, creativity was my escape, a way to find balance and clarity. As I matured, I realized that creativity could also be a way to empower others and inspire change.

The idea for Maet sparked from a gap I noticed in the market—there were so few brands that combined bold femininity, timeless minimalism, and a truly sustainable ethos. I wanted to create a brand that not only celebrates individuality and confidence but also prioritizes eco-consciousness in every step of the process. Maet became my way of bridging the gap between high-quality design and a commitment to sustainability. It’s more than a fashion brand; it’s a movement toward a more thoughtful and ethical approach to personal style.

How does your Albanian heritage influence the brand’s identity, designs, or ethos?

My Albanian heritage is deeply woven into the DNA of Maet. Albania has a rich cultural history and a unique aesthetic that combines raw authenticity. Growing up here, I was surrounded by a tradition of craftsmanship and artistry, which continues to inspire the way we create at Maet. Our pieces are handcrafted in our studio in Tirana by an all-woman team of talented seamstresses, reflecting the local craftsmanship and dedication to quality that is so central to our culture.

Albania also represents resilience and reinvention—values that resonate with the ethos of Maet. In a way, launching the country’s first ready-to-wear sustainable fashion brand feels like honoring Albania’s potential for innovation and growth.

Maet isn’t just a brand; it’s a celebration of heritage, creativity, and a future-forward approach to fashion. It’s my way of showing that Albania has a voice in the global conversation about design and innovation.

Where do you draw inspiration from? Are there specific people, places, or cultures that influence your work?

My inspiration comes from a mix of personal experiences, architecture, and the cultural richness that surrounds me.

People and their stories also inspire me. I’m drawn to strong, creative women who embrace their individuality and aren’t afraid to challenge norms. Icons like Rei Kawakubo and Phoebe Philo have had a significant influence on how I view fashion as a tool for self-expression, not just adornment. But I’m equally inspired by everyday women—their strength, their stories, and the way they express themselves through what they wear.

Travel is another big influence. Seeing how different cultures interpret art, design, and fashion expands my perspective and helps me create pieces that feel global yet rooted in authenticity. Every place I visit adds a new layer to my creative process—whether it’s the vibrant energy of a city or the quiet simplicity of a remote village. Ultimately, Maet is a reflection of all these inspirations, combined with my own vision of empowering women through timeless design.

What role does sustainability and slow-fashion play in your brand?

Sustainability and slow fashion are at the very heart of Maet—they define who we are as a brand and guide every decision we make. From the very beginning, I knew I wanted Maet to challenge the traditional fashion system, which often prioritizes speed and overproduction at the expense of the environment, craftsmanship, and ethical practices. I wanted to create something that celebrated mindful production, timeless design, and a deeper respect for the planet.

For us, sustainability starts with the materials we use. We carefully select eco-friendly fabrics, such as Econyl (a regenerated nylon made from waste materials like discarded fishing nets) and other natural, organic, or recycled textiles. Every material we choose has to align with our commitment to reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. Beyond the materials, slow fashion is the foundation of our approach to design. We reject the fast-paced, throwaway culture of traditional fashion and instead create timeless pieces that are designed to last. By focusing on quality over quantity, we ensure that each garment is versatile, durable, and can be cherished for years to come. This slower, more thoughtful approach also allows us to celebrate craftsmanship and pay close attention to the details that make every piece unique. One of the key ways we put these values into practice is through our extensive selection of Made-to-Order designs. While our pieces are presented as Ready-To-Buy, we’ve established an efficient production process that allows us to ship orders within 48 hours. This approach ensures that every garment is made specifically for its wearer, significantly reducing waste and eliminating the need for overstock. With this system, we’ve managed to bring waste and overproduction down to almost zero, proving that sustainability and efficiency can go hand in hand.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting or growing the brand?

Starting and growing Maet has been a deeply rewarding journey, but it has certainly come with its share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was introducing the concept of sustainable and slow fashion in Albania, where the market is still heavily influenced by fast fashion. Educating consumers about the importance of investing in quality over quantity and the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions was a challenge we had to tackle early on. It required a lot of effort to communicate the value of sustainable fashion and how it aligns with both style and ethics. However, one aspect that has helped immensely in overcoming these challenges is the immediate understanding and acceptance we’ve received from the international market. People around the world are actively searching for sustainable options that don’t compromise on great design, and Maet’s ethos and aesthetic have resonated with this growing audience. The demand for beautifully crafted, eco-conscious fashion has made it easier for us to carve out our place in the global market and share our story with those who value sustainability and timeless design.

Lastly, as a new brand, visibility and brand recognition were significant challenges. Competing with established international brands requires a clear and compelling narrative. We needed to tell the story of Maet—our focus on timeless design, craftsmanship, and sustainability—in a way that resonated with both local and global audiences.

Despite these challenges, each obstacle taught me something invaluable about resilience, creativity, and the importance of staying true to the brand’s vision.

What have been some of your proudest moments since launching the brand?

There have been so many moments of pride along this journey, and each one has been a reflection of the incredible team, community, and vision that have come together to shape Maet.

One of my proudest moments was seeing how quickly the international market embraced Maet. From the very beginning, our mission to blend sustainable design with bold, minimalistic fashion seemed to resonate with people across the globe. To have our designs featured on global platforms, and to see our garments worn by women who value both style and sustainability, is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a testament to the fact that people are actively looking for more conscious fashion choices, and Maet is able to provide that.

Another moment of pride is seeing how stylists reinterpret our designs for their editorial looks. As a designer and founder, the day-to-day business aspects of running a brand can sometimes overshadow the creative side. But when I see Maet pieces come to life in unexpected and artistic editorial shoots, it brings me back to the design part of it, reminding me why I started this journey in the first place. It’s a beautiful reminder that we are all in the business of creativity, and our designs are not just garments—they’re a form of artistic expression that can take on a life of their own in the hands of talented professionals. Those moments of creative collaboration keep me inspired and grounded in the heart of what we do.

What’s your vision for the future of the brand? Any new collection or any collaboration in sight?

Looking ahead, we’re expanding our collections with a focus on eco-friendly fabrics and production processes. We’re introducing new lines using upcycled and organic textiles while maintaining our minimalist aesthetic. We’re also exploring versatile, seasonless pieces that promote wardrobe longevity and support our sustainable mission. I’m especially excited to venture into accessories. While not formally trained, I’ve started sketching ideas for bags and shoes. It’s a big step, but a natural extension of Maet’s philosophy to create functional, sustainable pieces that complement our designs.

We also plan to expand Maet’s presence, especially in the US which is our biggest direct-to-consumer market. We’re aiming to make our brand more accessible by partnering with key retailers, offering customers faster and easier access while maintaining the personalized experience of direct sales.

Who are some of your biggest inspirations in fashion, design, or art?

As a designer, I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, ranging from fashion icons to artistic movements. Phoebe Philo’s design philosophy, with its perfect blend of understated elegance and sophisticated ease, has always deeply resonated with me. Her ability to create clothing that is simultaneously modern, minimalist, and incredibly empowering is something I strive to reflect in my own work. I’m also influenced by Ann Demeulemeester’s avant-garde and poetic designs continue to shape my vision of femininity. The Bauhaus movement, with its focus on simplicity, functionality, and the integration of art and design, has influenced the minimalist nature of Maet’s pieces. I also find great inspiration in the work of renowned architect Zaha Hadid, whose bold, fluid, and futuristic designs challenge traditional architectural forms. Her ability to blend innovation with elegance has deeply influenced how I approach the structure of my designs. Ultimately, the women around me—whether they’re customers, fellow designers, or the talented women on my team—serve as my biggest source of inspiration. Their strength, creativity, and individuality drive me to design pieces that empower women and reflect the multifaceted nature of modern femininity.

Which is your favourite part of the job that you enjoy the most doing?

My favorite part of the job is, without a doubt, the design process—creating something from scratch and watching it come to life. I have so many ideas swirling in my head, and while not everything can be developed into a coherent collection, it doesn’t stop me from filling entire sketchbooks with concepts and designs that I put aside for the future. There’s a certain thrill in turning a vision into a tangible, wearable piece. Whether it’s experimenting with materials, refining cuts, or exploring new shapes, designing is where my heart lies.

That said, as a founder, I sometimes find myself pulled in many different directions. While I love being creative, the practical side of running a brand—managing the business, production, and logistics—can feel like a distraction from what I truly enjoy. There are moments when I wonder if I made a mistake in starting my own brand, just because it takes me away from the pure joy of creating. But at the same time, those challenges remind me of the importance of the bigger picture—creating a brand that not only embodies my vision but also functions sustainably and successfully. Still, the excitement I get from designing is what keeps me motivated and constantly looking forward to the next collection.

Follow MAET.CO HERE

Words + Interview by @aleksja_prendi

Editing + Publishing by Mira W. at MOODART School of Fashion Communication