Alexandra Petrovic, founder of Fragile Base, a fashion brand that is not just a brand but a space where raw emotions meet futuristic aesthetics. In this interview for FashionMag42.com, we talk about her journey, the philosophy behind Fragile Base , and the inspiration for her latest collection showcased at Zurich Fashion Week.
FM42: Can you tell us about your journey into fashion design? What first inspired you to become a designer?
Alexandra Petrovic: My journey into Fashion was never just about clothing, it was about expression. Fashion became a language for emotions I couldn’t always put into words. My path was also actually a completely different one since I studied economics and was in the field for a long time until I switched into the more creative area. It was my vessel to fulfill myself and let my creativity and emotions out. I’ve always been drawn to contrasts: Softness and strength, control and vulnerability. Designing allowed me to translate inner states into something visible and wearable. Over time, this evolved into Fragile Base, not as a solely business idea but as an extension of who I am.
FM42: What does the name Fragile Base represent, and how does it reflect your design philosophy?
Alexandra Petrovic: Fragile Base stands for the idea that fragility is not a weakness, but a foundation. We live in a world that often demands hardness and emotional distance. Fragile Base challenges that. The brand is built on the belief that emotions are essential, not something to hide or suppress. The core vision is that even in a cold futuristic world (which we showcase with the designs) that emotions are what keeps us human. Fragile Base is about holding space for vulnerability and compassion and allowing it to shape identity, expression and design. The duality of cold futuristic designs with a lot of raw human emotions.
FM42: How would you describe the aesthetic and core values of your latest collection?
The latest collection, which we showcased at Zurich Fashion Week involved many spikes and sharp objects like safety pins as well in a futuristic vibe. The emotion and core value was the meaning of “Protection”. Protect and guard yourself.
FM42: What has it meant for you to debut at Zurich Fashion Week at the Kongresshaus, especially as the event grows as a platform for Swiss and international designers?
Alexandra Petrovic: Presenting at Zurich Fashion Week was deeply meaningful. It felt like a moment of alignment between personal growth, creative vision, and the evolution of the brand. Also being part of the first Zurich Fashion Week yet and holding my own first Fashion Show felt unbelievable. Being part of that movement felt both grounding and empowering. It reinforced that there is also space for fashion in Switzerland and I’m happy to keep on going like this.
Runway Zurich Fashion Week, ph credit: Diego Da Silva
