We announced some weeks ago the return of Ukrainian Fashion Week, an event that we haven't been able to enjoy since 2022 and that has decided to return to the streets of Kyiv in a move that is both necessary for an industry that represents not only the passion but also the life and sustenance of hundreds of people, and also a brave and courageous one given the circumstances. Despite the difficulties, not only the most obvious ones like logistics or safety, but also the mental and emotional struggles Ukrainians have had to learn to live with, the creations, energy, and passion with which this event has been done are evident, and each garment, accessory, and detail carry a story and a significance that we can only wish we could have witnessed live. Luckily for us, photographer Liza Prykhodko was there to capture through her lens the creativity and talent of the fashion industry of her country, and now we are sharing it with you.
It is true that fashion is not among the first concerns when considering the immense tragedy Ukraine has had to endure ever since the invasion started, but it is also true how any creative discipline can signify a different way to fight the enemy. The teamwork added to the skills and talent that remain as present as ever, and a new-found type of pride about your country and your roots that is only born when its integrity has been put at risk, are transformed into a tangible creation that represents the love for creation that has been dormant for a while but that now slowly is starting to wake up again.
The best brands of the local industry displayed their shows in various locations throughout the city, reclaiming the spaces that belong to them. Names like TG Botanical, Paskal, Bobkova, Tonia, The Coat, and more showed their collections where the contemporary elements of fashion blended with the very personal and cherished traditions of Ukrainian culture, reflected on the concepts, the techniques, and the details. Here you can have a look at the backstage photographies taken by Liza, where the richness and quality of the creations are immortalised, allowing us to appreciate the quality and understand firsthand why Ukrainian fashion is vital to the industry.
