How does the fashion industry survive in a country devastated by war? Despite the ever-present threats of air raids and missile attacks, the latest edition of Ukrainian Fashion Week highlighted its people’s resistance and commitment to thriving despite the unfavourable circumstances. For the first time since the onset of the full-scale war, the February edition, which took place from the 14th to the 17th, was celebrated. We were there with photographer Liza Prykhodko, who sneaked backstage to get a closer look of next season’s hottest trends.
But it’d be frivolous to stay in the shallowness of trends, especially when designers are presenting collections with a highly sentimental component. Of course, living in a country fighting for survival influences deeply their creations: some aim to escape the harsh reality, some others try to make sense of the world around us, and others choose to reclaim their identity, freedom, and culture — all of which are threatened.
For example, KseniaSchnaider presented an incredibly fun collection titled The Box with highly geometric, rigid shapes. For them, this is a way to bring digital clothes (often pixelated and boxy — think Roblox, for example) into the physical world while also exploring the possibilities of a garment through intricate patterns. A sense of physicality was also important to Tetyana Chumak, from TG Botanical, whose collection is made from sustainable fabrics, earthy tones, and a brilliant sense of femininity. Frolov also reclaimed femininity in its collection, only their approach was much different — more focused on rock, punk, and subversion.
Once again, Ukrainian Fashion Week proved to be an incredible platform for up-and-coming designers who want to leave a mark in this world through clothes. And also, their resilience amidst the turmoil in the country is a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence, hard work, creativity, and confidence.
