A trio of Ukrainian fashion designers made a statement at London Fashion Week, defying the challenges they face in their war-torn country. Due to the ongoing conflict with Russia, these designers were unable to showcase their collections in Ukraine, making their opportunity to shine on the London runway even more significant.
One of the designers, Ksenia Schnaider, presented an eco-friendly collection that combined denim jeans and dresses with white tops and vibrant multicolored patchwork outfits. Despite the hardships they encountered, Schnaider expressed her desire to offer a momentary escape from reality and bring beauty and joy to the world through her designs.
Julie Paskal’s brand, Paskal, also made a splash with delicate dresses in shades of blue, black, and white. The garments featured cutout butterfly shapes and attachments, serving as a powerful representation of the designer’s homeland.
Ivan Frolov, the third designer in the lineup, showcased his brand Frolov, which has gained attention from notable celebrities such as Dua Lipa and Gwen Stefani. Frolov drew inspiration from traditional Ukrainian songs for his collection, which highlighted corset dresses in striking colors like pink, red, and black, with heart-shaped cutouts. The addition of hand-knit sweaters added a cozy touch to the overall presentation.
Running a fashion brand in a country affected by war poses significant challenges. Ksenia Schnaider discussed some of the obstacles she encountered, such as constant blackouts during the collection’s creation. To overcome this, she had to invest in a large generator to ensure consistent electricity supply. Despite these difficulties, the designers expressed their gratitude for the support provided by London Fashion Week and The British Fashion Council, acknowledging their vital role in helping their businesses thrive.
To showcase their unity and patriotism, the designers joined forces at the end of the show, proudly waving the Ukrainian flag with the United24 logo. This logo represents a fundraising platform established by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. This powerful display of solidarity underscored the resilience and determination of Ukrainian designers.
These talented individuals refuse to let their circumstances hinder their success. In addition to London, they have plans to present their collections in other fashion capitals such as Berlin and Copenhagen, ensuring that their artistry is appreciated worldwide. Through their perseverance and use of fashion as a medium, these designers are making significant contributions to the international fashion scene, introducing the beauty and creativity of Ukraine to a global audience.
Useful links:
1. The British Fashion Council
2. United24: Fundraising Platform
