Amidst the ongoing war with Russia, Ukrainian Fashion Week made a triumphant return to Kyiv, marking a powerful statement of cultural defiance. The event, forced to relocate outside the country since the full-scale invasion in February 2022, now stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for the Ukrainian people.
The air raid sirens that blared across the capital early Monday morning, a grim reminder of the ongoing conflict, did little to dampen the spirits of those involved in the fashion week. Designers, models, and attendees alike gathered to celebrate creativity and cultural heritage in the face of adversity.
Ivan Frolov, founder of the renowned fashion brand Frolov, highlighted the contrasting realities Ukrainians are living with. “It’s very difficult right now to explain to people that war is still going on,” he said. “We’re working and trying to have a normal life, but 500 kilometres from our buildings, we have a frontline where our soldiers are fighting each day, and each day we have funerals in our cities. It’s our new reality.”
Frolov’s show, a reinterpretation of the Ukrainian folk tale “Ivasyk-Telesyk”, served as a testament to the strength and unity of the Ukrainian people. “It’s a message about Ukrainian culture and the strong community in Kyiv. It’s my big, big thank you to all people for working and supporting our country and having companies in Ukraine that pay taxes to support our soldiers on the frontline.”
Ukrainian Fashion Week has long been a platform for showcasing the country’s burgeoning fashion industry and celebrating home-grown talent. In recent years, these craft skills have been adapted to produce essential items for the war effort, from camouflage nets to combat equipment. Now, the event serves as a powerful reminder of the Ukrainian people’s resilience and adaptability.
However, reaching a global audience with the message of Ukrainian fashion has become a monumental challenge. The ongoing conflict presents significant obstacles, including travel restrictions, safety concerns, and the threat of Russian airstrikes.
Despite these challenges, Iryna Danilevska, co-founder and CEO of Ukrainian Fashion Week, remains steadfast in her commitment to supporting the country through the event. “We are all in this state of anxiety and shock. It’s very hard,” she acknowledges. Danilevska and her team are determined to showcase the tremendous value of Ukrainian heritage and culture, raise funds for the military and wounded veterans, and provide opportunities for talented young creatives.
Ukrainian Fashion Week has become a symbol of hope and defiance, proving that even in the midst of conflict, the spirit of creativity and resilience can thrive. The event serves as a testament to the Ukrainian people’s unwavering commitment to their culture and their fight for freedom.
