Litkovskaya, a Ukrainian couture brand based in Kiev, represents a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and a cosmopolitan aesthetic. Under the leadership of designer Lilia Litkovskaya, the brand’s atelier is not just a workspace, but also a showroom, all housed within a bright and naturally lit space. Located within a French-style building that also houses Café Charlotte, the atelier exudes a strong influence of French culture, which is beautifully reflected in Litkovskaya’s designs. By combining her family’s tailoring heritage, Carpathian craftsmanship, and a touch of cosmopolitan Parisian flair, Litkovskaya has successfully created unique and breathtaking collections.
Lilia Litkovskaya, a modest and petite woman, lights up when she talks about her meticulous work and passion for design. While exploring her design archives, Litkovskaya proudly showcases her impeccable creations, including asymmetrical men’s blazers and a reversible oversized coat. One of her core beliefs is that intricate details, such as delicately embroidered song lyrics on jackets, are just as important, if not more, than the overall appearance of the garments. Litkovskaya’s own personal style also reflects her attention to detail, as she can often be seen wrapped in a warm coat with a generously sized collar.
The love and dedication Litkovskaya has for her craft can be seen in every aspect of her creations, from the carefully chosen materials to the finely tailored cuts. Even the yellowed pages of books and photo albums that hold the history of her family’s four generations of tailors serve as inspiration for her designs. Inspired by the artistry of military uniforms, Litkovskaya constantly seeks fresh ideas and techniques, which she shares with her team. Furthermore, the brand prides itself on its commitment to sustainable production, with the entire Litkovskaya collection made in Ukraine using fabrics sourced from Italy and Japan, as well as surplus stock from luxury labels. Currently, the brand employs a team of 25 people.
Founded in 2009, Litkovskaya offers a complete wardrobe for women who value authenticity in fashion. Taking inspiration from menswear, the brand’s collection includes architectural coats and jackets, minimalist dresses and skirts, and stylish handbags. With prices ranging from €150 to €1,900, Litkovskaya’s designs cater to a discerning audience. Currently, e-commerce sales account for 40% of the brand’s revenue, with key markets in Asia and Europe. Litkovskaya’s collections can be found in 11 countries, including renowned retailers like Selfridges in London, L’éclaireur in Paris, and Hlorenzo in Los Angeles. In addition to ready-to-wear options, the brand also offers bespoke creations and online pre-ordering services.
Litkovskaya’s creative process is fueled by her observation and absorption of the world around her. She is constantly learning and discovering new things, which she then incorporates into her designs. Her approach can be described as one of radical exploration, consistently pushing boundaries and embracing experimentation. In October, Litkovskaya’s brand was featured on the official calendar of the Kyiv Art & Fashion Days event, which aims to promote the local fashion scene.
Although the Ukrainian fashion market is still developing, Litkovskaya believes that it is a treasure trove of exceptional talent. She recognizes the growing recognition of the country’s fashion industry abroad and is eager to contribute to its growth. In 2018, Litkovskaya launched the ‘Artisanal’ line, which employs ancient carpet-weaving techniques to create original coats and jackets, providing employment opportunities for women in the region. Additionally, through the ‘School of Art x Craft’ project, Litkovskaya supports emerging designers, artisans, and artists through sponsorships and training initiatives.
The success and growth of Litkovskaya are a testament to Lilia Litkovskaya’s unwavering dedication, incredible talent, and passion for merging traditional Ukrainian craftsmanship with a cosmopolitan feel. As she continues to push boundaries and experiment with designs, Litkovskaya’s brand is poised to thrive both domestically and internationally.
Useful Links:
– Official Website of Litkovskaya
– Litkovskaya’s Fall 2021 Ready-to-Wear Collection on Vogue
