Up Close with Anastasiia Lukinskaia  

Anastasiia Lukinskaia is a stylist and costume designer with a bold, storytelling-driven approach to fashion. Born in Russia and now based in Los Angeles, she draws inspiration from her global experiences as a dancer, YouTube creator, and trained actor. Blending elegance with edge, Anastasiia’s work spans film, music videos, and editorial projects, known for its ability to connect with diverse audiences. Her ultimate goal: to create collections that capture the spirit of cultures around the world, one story at a time.

Welcome to Movie Marker! Where did your love for costume and fashion first begin?

Fashion has always been my language. One of my earliest memories is being eight years old, shopping with my mom, and spotting a pleated leather punk skirt. She said no — and I remember thinking, “I can’t wait to grow up so I can dress exactly how I want.” My mom’s style was refined and elegant, while I craved bold, rebellious pieces. Over time, I learned to merge those worlds — blending sophistication with fearless creativity.

How would you describe your signature style?

It’s a mix of contrasts — like if Brunello Cucinelli and Vivienne Westwood became best friends. My designs balance sharp, edgy elements with timeless elegance. I love creating looks that tell a story and make people feel something, whether it’s a subtle detail or a bold statement piece.

What’s been one of your proudest moments so far?

Sketching my first full collection. I was inspired by the beauty of a pheasant bird — its magical colors and shapes. Translating that vision into five couture looks felt like bringing a dream to life. When I presented it, seeing others feel the same wonder I did was unforgettable.

Tell us about the movie you worked on, ‘The Last Motion Picture of Stanley Alden’

Set in the 1920’s, this film is about a tired movie maker who attempts to write his last motion picture while being stuck with a young actor with a dream. I was the lead costume designer and stylist – I loved working with the 1920’s era.

Can you share any interesting fun facts from behind the scenes?

Yes, so during filming, the lead actress had to perform very intense choreography on set. The costume held up perfectly, but the classic wavy hairstyle with a headpiece just could not survive multiple takes of such demanding movement.

Thanks to my dance background and years of getting myself competition ready, I stepped in for a moment, using my skills to make the hair stay exactly as I’d envisioned for both the outfit and the choreography. In the end, the waves were waving, the 1920s vibes were on point, and both the actress and I were happy with the results — as was our very relieved hair and make-up team, who got a much-needed save.

Wow great save! If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?

For directors, definitely Wes Anderson or Paolo Sorrentino — their visuals and storytelling are incredible. For actors, Cillian Murphy. His presence is magnetic, and I’d love to design a character’s wardrobe specifically for him.

For fun! If you went back to the golden era of Hollywood, which famous person do you resonate with most and why?

Gilbert Adrian — his bold shapes, wide shoulders, fantasy-like headpieces, and draped gowns are elements I deeply admire and draw inspiration from. I feel my own designs often echo his style, like my corsetry look that blends imagination with wearability, where the upper layer has sharp edges that seem to float in the air, as if they’re part of your imagination.

You have inspired me to look him up! How can people follow your journey?

I am on Instagram, and I have my website is http://anastasiia-lukinskaia.com/