Galina refines designs in NEPA

by Rachel Pugh
Weekender General Manager
Times Leader Vice President of Marketing

When thinking of high-end fashion design, custom-made ball gowns, and capes made of antique Chanel fabric, Wilkes-Barre may not be the first place you think of. But it should be, because these things exist within one little shop in downtown Wilkes-Barre.

Galina Petrov, originally from the Ukraine, made her way to the U.S. some 30 years ago. Starting within the industry as a fashion assistant, and later becoming a designer for European Evening Wear, Bloomingdales, Macy’s, and 57th Street boutiques, Petrov made her name known in Manhattan’s fashion district for nearly 16 years.

Turning down a job with Donna Karen because she didn’t want another designer’s label on her work, Petrov eventually transitioned from designer to designer and business owner, opening her own shop in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Why Wilkes-Barre, one may ask? Her freedom to introduce her designs to appreciative customers is a most attractive ability. Feeling there is a current disconnect with the customer since designers now design for factories which are all overseas, Petrov desires a more special connection with the people who become loyal customers. She can meet them, hear their positive feedback, and see them over and over again in years to come. Recently, Petrov designed a wedding dress for a local PNC vice president’s bride. The woman said she “felt like royalty” when walking down the aisle, an outcome Petrov is most proud of. In the making is a ballroom dancing gown for a highly esteemed local doctor. With several sketches already underway, Petrov will visit the doctor’s home for consultations and fittings, producing the perfect dress to fit the woman’s precise desires.

Currently, Petrov is working on forming her own label, custom-made items and opening her showroom and studio at her new location on Washington Street just around the corner from her current location on South Street. Specializing in evening wear, ladies and men’s dress coats, capes, and hats, Petrov will be producing exclusive lines for the customer with elite tastes. She uses original Chanel fabric which she bought at an auction unknowingly and later learned of its origin, and has a fondness for ruffles, Persian lamb, organza, and silk charmeuse over lace. Her No. 1 goal in creating each design is to deliver a one of a kind product. This goal is set in motion by the fact that Petrov does not look at design as a simple craft but rather pure art.

“� see fashion as art,” she states, “I don’t see fashion as people just trying to look dressed.”

And the public must agree with her vision because Petrov’s signature items can be seen on display at the Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center in Jim Thorpe.

To start your journey towards timeless beauty and romantic lines of distinguished taste, make your appointment with Petrov today by calling 570.824.2344 or stop by her showroom at 37 South Street in Wilkes-Barre, which is soon to move around the corner to Washington Street. You may also ask for custom designed curtains and window drapery.

Be influenced by the finer things in life starting with a Galina Petrov custom design. You’ll be pleasantly pleased by fulfilling your temptations.

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