Svitlana Bevza, the Ukrainian designer, arrived at her temporary Paris showroom apartment, a tranquil space amidst the bustle of the Bastille, radiating composure despite the Parisian traffic and soaring temperatures. For her spring collection, Bevza focused on three key themes: sharp lines, optimistic white staples symbolizing light and energy, and subtle Ukrainian motifs.
Bevza explained her choice of these themes, stating, “It’s the only way,” acknowledging the need for optimism and strength in the face of challenging times. The collection showcased a subtle yet impactful inclusion of Ukrainian symbols. Wheat spikelets, already a staple in the brand’s popular earrings and necklaces, were amplified with dark-burnished elements, evoking scorched earth and creating a striking contrast with the gold accents. This subtle nod to Ukraine would be immediately recognizable to those familiar with the brand’s symbolism, while also appealing to a broader audience.
A new range of compact, origami-like bags with magnetic closures further explored the spikelet theme with a versatile touch. These bags can be worn flat for shoulder carrying or cleverly folded into a grain-shaped bourse, featuring a wristlet that frees up hands.
Bevza’s bees, fleetingly glimpsed in her Ukrainian garden during the spring, served as another inspiration for the collection, which she aptly named “Pasika,” the Ukrainian word for apiary. Honeycomb shapes, clean, crisp, and adaptable, expanded on the brand’s popular mermaid dress, acting as negative space on the sides of a black shift, geometric embroidery at the waist, or placements at the bust on a slip dress. The honeycomb motif also found more abstract expression in an angular white jumpsuit, a funnel-neck beige windbreaker, and a white vegan leather bomber.
Adding another layer of depth to the collection, Bevza introduced a brand new swimwear line. This expansion seamlessly incorporated the house’s signature elements, offering a fresh and captivating addition to the brand’s offerings.
Svitlana Bevza’s “Pasika” collection is a testament to her ability to blend inspiration from her homeland with a contemporary aesthetic, creating a collection that is both poignant and stylish.
