The Sewn Signs of the Queen

Ioana Corduneanu follow signs and clues left

by The Queen and translate her messages for contemporary audiences.

We were thrilled to host designer and heritage advocate Ioana Corduneanu, founder of the Sewn Signs (Semne Cusute) movement, for a deeply engaging exploration of Romania’s textile arts through the lens of Queen Marie’s legacy. The event was opened with a welcome address by RCI London director Aura Woodward.

In a talk that blended personal testimony with collective cultural heritage, Ioana invited the audience behind the scenes of a multi-generational project dedicated to Romanian textile arts and crafts. Drawing inspiration from Queen Marie’s style, symbolism, and strategic vision, she revealed how women have preserved this wearable art form across generations, transforming the traditional blouses into enduring expressions of identity, sustainability, globalism, and inclusion. The story unfolded against the backdrop of 3 astonishingly beautiful traditional outfits, all created by herself.

It was a joy to welcome a packed audience, including many members of the Sewn Signs community, who gathered especially to hear Ioana’s stories and wisdom.

As our Garrison Chapel series draws to a close, we celebrate this inspiring evening as a fitting finale - a moment that reminded us how heritage can empower and unite across generations.

Many thanks to Ioana Corduneanu and to everyone who joined us! And special thanks to Alex Coman, who captures the soul of our gatherings with such artistry - our celebrations simply wouldn’t look the same without his lens.