We often choose our profession by following an inner instinct. The first spark appears in childhood, while our surroundings slowly shape and define it. For some, fashion is only about glamour and status; for others, it is a form of self-expression and freedom. But there are also people who seem to be chosen by fashion itself – as if their path was decided from birth. Still, a professional journey is rarely straight. It is filled with challenges, doubts, family fears, and constant resistance to social stereotypes. In this interview, Nuki Chabukiani speaks about her diverse experience – both impressive and inspiring – showing that everything is possible if you are brave enough to take the first step, even when others doubt your choice.
Nuki, how did you choose your profession?
My mother was a successful model, and through her I naturally developed an interest in fashion. At first, I wanted to become a model myself, but I was also fascinated by design – and in the end, I chose that direction. My family did not support my decision, so I enrolled in journalism instead. Still, I felt that media was not my place. I never stopped dreaming about the fashion industry. After I started working as a journalist at Forbes Georgia, luxury business soon entered my life. That was when I realized that career opportunities in this sector were much broader. I chose an international master’s program in luxury management: part of the studies took place at Politecnico di Milano in Italy, and part at NEOMA Business School in France. Before leaving for Europe, I shared my plans with people close to me. Many were skeptical, saying this profession would not be useful in Georgia. But my work today clearly proves that luxury management is in demand in our region, and that success in this field is absolutely possible.
What did Politecnico di Milano give you that later influenced your career success?
My studies completely changed the way I see luxury and brands. I learned that the real value of an expensive item lies in its story – an intangible value that goes far beyond the price on the label. While many people associate luxury only with wealth and status, in reality the sector is highly segmented, both by price and by brand philosophy. For example, the Patek Philippe Nautilus is special because it was designed by the legendary Gérald Genta. His inspiration came from Jules Verne’s Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea – the shape of the watch recalls the window of Captain Nemo’s submarine.
After graduating, you worked at the legendary Rémy Martin. How do you remember that period?
Rémy Martin shaped my work ethic in every possible way – from punctuality to respect for colleagues and true teamwork. I lived in the suburbs of Paris, which meant waking up at 6 a.m. every day. Before reaching the office, I had to change three metro lines. To arrive on time, I carried my high heels in my hand and put them on only at the final stop. After Rémy Martin, I completed a tailoring internship at the David Koma showroom. This was my first real contact with fashion, sales, buyers, and the intense rhythm of the fashion business industry (fashion as art is a separate topic altogether). That was the moment I fully realized – this is exactly where I belong.
How did your professional life develop after returning to Georgia?
As soon as I returned to Georgia, I became an International Sales Manager at Materiel Tbilisi. Later, I took charge of operations and, together with my team, built one of the market’s leading exporters into a global brand. I created Dots from zero – I even chose the name myself. I put my whole heart into it and still call it my child today. I can confidently say that Dots changed consumer perception and broke the stereotype that Georgian products must be either expensive or low-quality. We showed society that the idea of “Wear Georgian” can be something to be proud of – trendy, high-quality, and accessible.
Read the full interview with Nuki Chabukiani in the latest issue of Nargisi magazine, now available at Biblusi stores.
Interview by Tatuli Gvinianidze
