Although her first specialization was in Economics, Lena followed her heart and dreams and completed a fashion degree at University of Arts in Bucharest. 

In April 2006 she presented the first collection under “Lena Criveanu” label within a sumptuous UNICEF gala.  This is a particular point in her public participations, bringing her contribution to many important charitable events which followed in Bucharest since than.  

From her first collection Lena demonstrated how the handcraft technology of the Romanian traditional folkloric costumes, both from men and women, from different parts of the country, together with various elements of the folkloric Art can be reinterpreted and included to a modern romantic aesthetic.  She loves the painted and printed elements which became an attribute of her collections. From a butterfly, a rose, a magnolia tree, a water-mill who can be also a perfect circular bunch of sunrays to dragon-flies composing the arms of a cross or half brighten human face, nobody else than Brancusi’s Madam Poganny, all were elements who inspired Lena and brought uniqueness to each collection and to every piece itself. At the same time, although she pays attention to the technical details she takes a conceptual approach to fashion, pushing clothing across boundaries into sculpture, performance art and beyond. Thus, quickly since her debut, she became a spoken voice of the new generation of Romanian designers making the critics to place her at the border between fashion and art.  Her works are favorite for the most fashion editors including personal stylists of the national artists from music, cinema and politics.    

Starting with 2008, Lena presents her brand internationally at the show trades held in Paris and New York and develops business with important world textile and accessories suppliers. In July 2011, Lena steps for the first time at Berlin Fashion Week with her spring/summer 2012 collection having a very warm welcoming and is eager to come again with fall/winter 2012-2013.