Stepanova

Varvara (1884-1958). Russian painter. In 1923, she theorized the Constructivist dress seen in the pages of Lef magazine. Intended to be worn at work, it was a garment that prioritizes social functions over aesthetics. All decorative elements were banished in favor of the dress’s comfort and functionality. Married to the painter Rodchenko, from 1920 she was the publicity designer for Inchuk (Institute of Artistic Culture) and in 1924 and 1925 she taught in the textile design faculty of Vhutemas (Workshop for Advanced Technical and Artistic Studies). With Ljoubov Popova, she was one of the forerunners of developments in Russian textile printing. In the 1920s, they worked together for Cindel, the large fabric factory. It drew on traditional Russian clothes to create a simple wardrobe of uniforms, sports kits, and overalls for all types of professions.