SINCE the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, various Ukrainian designers are struggling to produce garments and support their business.
To showcase these brands, Glass has compiled a list of designers, some have started initiatives to offer local support, while others can be supported by buyers, all of which will help not only Ukrainian artists, but Ukraine in general in their struggle against the Russian forces.
Gunia Project
Gunia project is heavily inspired by Ukrainian heritage and sells exceptional items such as home décor, garments, and accessories. To help the situation in Ukraine the brand is selling blue and yellow bird candles and will donate all the costs to the “Come back alive” foundation as well as to a fund helping local animals.
Yuliya Magdych
Yuliya Magdych , born in Lviv the designer was inspired by the traditional Ukrainian embroidery passed down by the female line and creates garments that rethinks Ukrainian national costume aesthetics. During this difficult time, the designer is directing all the proceeds from her sold items to the Ukrainian army.
Madonna in DressX
DressX, the largest digital wardrobe, was founded by a team of Ukrainian nationals and has now launched a capsule as well as their proceeds going to support Ukraine. They are spreading the word online by dressing celebrities in their items who’ve supported the Ukraine – even Madonna has participated.
Chereshnivska
Chereshnivska is a Lviv-based brand founded by a small group of craftsmen that design casual unisex clothing. Currently their orders are being fulfilled from a limited UK stock and they have decided to donate all their proceeds to food supplies and essentials for their employees residing int Lviv.
KseniaSchnaider, Pre-Spring 2022
KseniaSchnaider, founded by married couple Ksenia and Anton Schnaider, is based in Ukrainian’s capital Kyiv and focuses on patchwork, reworked, upcycled, and overall sustainable designs.
Like many brands, their business was halted abruptly and they have now created support card of different amount which customers can purchase in order to help our their 30-person team and their families. Once the war has ended, the brand has said that the support cards will be transformed into gift cards for the shop.
Based in Kyiv, Bevza, creates minimalistic garments and accessories and has a deep connection to the city and its heritage. On their homepage they state that all deliveries have been postponed due the Russian invasion, but have linked a website where customer can donate to the Ukrainian army.
Emerging knitwear brand, 91Lab was founded by Rito, a company that holds over 30 years of knitwear experience. Customers can support this sustainable Ukrainian company in this difficult time by purchasing their designs including knitwear essentials, re-defined modern classics, and contemporary luxury garments.
Ukraine-based shoemaker Kachorovska combines more than 50 years of handmaking shoes with modern technologies, creating the perfect fitting shoes. Shoppers can support this local brand by buying items of their Proud To Be Made In Ukraine page on their website.
SupportbyPoustovit is inspired by Kyiv and its symbols, but also by the new generation, their way of life and their culture. Their unisex designs focus on minimalistic aesthetic and keeping the prices democratic. Customers can support this Ukrainian brand by purchasing their garments on their website.
Vita Kin is influenced by their Ukrainian heritage and its iconic embroidery methods and patterns. Based in Kyiv, for their picturesque designs they use elaborate methods of embroidery and applique giving their garments an artistic and personal essence.
Support this traditional brand with a modern spin by buying items from their online shop during this challenging period.
by Julie Heinisch